Canberra CityNews April 19, 2012

CityNews April 19-25 1

news

Mean bureaucrats give fun the chop Freyla Ferguson reports

FAMILIES will miss out this year with the cancellation of big family events including Teddy Bear’s Picnic, Dogs Day Out and Mother’s Day in the Park.

The family-friendly events that came under the “Round Town” program had attracted thousands of Canberrans each year, but despite this, the program has been canned.

Economic Development Directorate GONE... Teddy Bear’s Picnic. director general David Dawes said the cancellation of the events was a result of the changes to the ACT Government structure following the Hawke Review and the Events and Festivals Review.

“A number of decisions have been made regarding allocation of ACT Government resources,” he said.

“The new Events Unit within the Economic Development Directorate has reviewed a number of events and as a result Teddy Bear’s Picnic, Dogs Day Out and Mother’s Day in the Park will not be run this year.”

He said the ACT Government presents a suite of events through the year that provides families with the opportunity GONE... Dogs Day Out. to gather as part of the community.

“These events include the Canberra Nara Candle Festival, Lighting of the Christmas Tree, New Year’s celebrations, Australia Day celebrations, Enlighten, Floriade, Nightfest, the Balloon Spectacular, the Multicultural Festival, Lights! Canberra! Action!, Celebrate in the Park, Symphony in the Park, Canberra Festival and the Heritage Festival,” he said.

“These events are very popular and well patronised by Canberrans and are integral to the city’s annual events program.”

Mr Dawes said the ACT Government’s program of events will be continually reviewed and “takes into consideration community feedback, future needs and GONE... Mother’s Day in the Park. expectations”.

index / contacts Arts&Entertainment 19-22 Canberra Confidential 18 Cinema 20 Dining 22 Garden 24-25 Health & Fitness 23 Home 26 News 3-9 Politics 4 Property 28-32 Puzzles 27 Social Scene 15-17 FRONT COVER: Members of the 2/16th Infantry Battalion in Hamman, Syria, September, 1941. Photo courtesy AWM. Anzac Day story Page 10.

Phone 6262 9100 Fax 6262 9111 GPO Box 2448, Canberra City 2601 www.citynews.com.au twitter.com/city_news facebook.com/canberracitynews Chief executive officer: Greg Jones 0419 418196, greg@citynews.com.au Senior advertising executives: Ernie Nichols, 0421 077999 Advertising sales executives: Mara Stroppa, 0431 245130 Rebecca Darman 0411 225169 Advertising sales co-ordinator: ad@citynews.com.au Sydney advertising sales: Ad Sales Connect, 02 9420 1777

Since 1993: Volume 18, Number 13 Editor: Ian Meikle, editor@citynews.com.au Journalists: Freyla Ferguson, freyla@citynews.com.au Kathryn Vukovljak, kathryn@citynews.com.au Libby Hill, libby@citynews.com.au Arts editor: Helen Musa, 0400 043764 helen@citynews.com.au Design and photography: Silas Brown, 0412 718086 Graphic designer: Leonie Fox Contributing photographer: Andrew Finch Accounts manager: Bethany Freeman-Chandler accounts@citynews.com.au Distribution and circulation: Richard Watson, circulation@citynews.com.au CityNews April 19-25 3

news / politics

Filthy risks in election year THE trouble with playing in political sludge is that those who throw the filth invariably get their own hands dirty.

The McLeod review certainly did not clear Zed Seselja and his staff for their incompetent management of time sheets including identifying a “culture of non-cooperation” in the office of the Leader of the Opposition.

However, in the hype leading up to the commissioning of the audit by Ron McLeod, there were strong claims made under the protection of parliamentary privilege

by Labor and by the Greens about the fraudulent use of taxpayers’ money to support the Liberal Party. The review certainly did not validate these claims.

When the matter of mismanagement of staffing in the Liberal leader’s office first became public it was manna from heaven for the other parties.

The Greens and Labor were salivating at the prospect of embarrassing Zed Seselja to such an extent that he would have to step down. A change of leader within six months of an election over some form of scandal is a political gold mine. When it is about the Liberals and control of money, it is platinum.

The temptation was too great for Chief Minister Katy Gallagher and Greens’ leader Meredith Hunter. With sharpened knives they used parliamentary privilege to push the issue to the extreme. The approach was looking quite good for some time – until former Royal Commissioner Ron McLeod looked at the issue with a dispassionate eye.

He did find “a history of serious failure” to comply with legal obligations for records to be completed and submitted in a timely fashion. However, there was not much political gain as these anomalies had already effectively been admitted by Seselja who was committed to improving the processes within his office.

This should have left the report as a wet political blanket instead of the sensation

4 CityNews April 19-25

The Liberals should be on the skids, but instead Labor and the Greens have to wipe some mud off their own hands says MICHAEL MOORE

Labor’s Katy Gallagher (left) and the Greens’ Meredith Hunter... with sharpened knives they used parliamentary privilege to push the issue to the extreme. that the Labor and Greens parties were expecting. Rather than letting it fizzle, Seselja decided to demand an apology. Perhaps he thought this might clear his name.

All it did was extend airplay on the issue providing far more time to extend general understanding that something was wrong with the Liberal’s financial management.

There were some political negatives about the Greens and Labor refusing an apology but they were minor compared to having the financial management issue remain on the agenda.

As much as people argue that they want to take the dirt out of politics, negative campaigning provides a successful formula in the election context. Given the right opportunity, all parties play this game with some more extreme than others. One way to avoid as far as possible dragging all politicians and the parliamentary processes into the quagmire is to ensure more and more ethical protection and control.

It is not surprising that having examined the anomalies in the office of the Leader of the Opposition and aware of the context and accusations flying around, Ron McLeod looked at an enhanced role for an ethics commissioner. At the moment the role is advisory for all members

of the Legislative Assembly. McLeod has recommended a first step for an ethics commissioner of ensuring a code of conduct clarifies the activities which are party political. He also suggests members make mandatory six-monthly declarations on money spent on parliamentary and electorate work.

In reality, it is difficult to define a clear line between parliamentary work and party work. Everything that an elected member and their staff undertake is likely to have an impact upon the likelihood of that member being elected. By the nature of parliamentary democracy there is a shadowy area of overlap between what is in the interest of the parliament and the people and what is in the interest of the political party and the member. A code of conduct and a method of monitoring will provide some improvement but there will always be temptations for those with power.

The real difficulty with mudslinging in an election year is that most voters will take the view of Mercutio in “Romeo and Juliet”: “A plague a’ both your houses”.

Michael Moore was an independent member of the ACT Legislative Assembly (1989 to 2001) and was minister for health.

news / opinion

Talking ‘bout Joan’s generation

Flea market goes Dutch

“I DIDN’T ever really think I had Libby Hill to burn my bra,” says Lady Joan reports Hardy, who remembers a time when air hostesses were forced support act for Bob Hope, Harry Seto resign when they got married. combe, Barry Crocker and Kamahl, “I don’t particularly like the word feminist. I never felt that I was not worthy of making my own decisions or having an opinion.

“I always felt that I wanted to contribute to some conversation. I felt that I could make my own way in the world.”

The successful model, television presenter and sportswoman was in Canberra recently in her capacity as a senior partner with CMLpartners Executive Search. She spoke to a group of senior public servants and business people about issues relating to women in the workforce.

The wife of famed yachtsman and winemaker Sir James Hardy, Lady Hardy has an impressive list of accomplishments.

Formerly Joan McInnes, she represented SA in netball, modelled for David Jones and in 1976 travelled to Japan as an ambassador for the Australian Wool Corporation.

She lists her career highlights as a singer and television presenter including working with Don Lane, Mike Walsh and Ray Martin and as

and entertaining Australian troops in Vietnam.

“I worked always, but the women of my generation didn’t think about it. None of us ever thought, ‘Oh, we’re working women’, we just did it,” she says.

“I never thought about defining myself as anything. I think I always had a sense that I’d do alright.

“I always thought I didn’t want to be modelling when I was 35. I thought that might be a bit sad.”

Lady Hardy seems perplexed by the concept of women having it all.

“I’m not sure what having it all really means. I think everyone should be entitled to have a life,” she says.

“It’s a natural instinct for a woman to be a mother and a nurturer and want to stay at home with a child. It’s also a natural instinct, I think these days, to want to get out and be part of the workforce and be stimulated and enjoy the company of the workforce.

“I, sadly, didn’t have children, so I didn’t have that extra workload.”

Her first marriage broke up when she was 33.

briefly THE Netherlands Embassy, 120 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla, is holding a Queen’s Day “flea market”, 9am-1pm, Saturday, April 28. The Queen’s birthday flea market is the only time in the year when Dutch people can buy and sell their second-hand goods on the street. But here the embassy has organised the sellers, which will include stalls selling Dutch food. Entry by gold coin with proceeds to the Canberra Hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit.

Back to pigtails MEMBERS of the Woden VIEW Club will dress-up for a “Back 2 School Day” fete in support of the Smith Family at their next meeting at the Southern Cross Club, from 11.30am on Tuesday, April 24. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women. The lunch costs $21 and RSVP to 6286 1827.

Calling all WRANS Lady Joan Hardy... “I don’t particularly like the word feminist. I never felt that I was not worthy of making my own decisions or having an opinion.”

Photo by Silas Brown She didn’t meet Jim, who has two children, until she was 43.

“I have a number of friends who didn’t have kids and I think [it’s] because we were of that era – that was the pill generation,” she says.

“I married in 1967 when I was 22

and we could decide. We were the first generation that was sort of given choices as women and I think it created a fairly strong generation of women.

“People ask me if I regret not having children and I actually don’t.”

EX-WRANS and women who have or are currently serving in the Royal Australian Navy and the Royal Australian Naval Reserve are invited to join the WRANS Association (ACT) contingent marching in the Anzac Day parade at the National War Memorial. Muster at the Naval Memorial in Anzac Parade (look for the WRANS banner) by 9.45am. More information regarding the march and lunch following from Christine Barbour (events@wransact.org) 6231 8676 or Beth Roberts (secretary@wransact.org) 6241 3759.

CityNews April 19-25 5

news

Truth, the whole truth – that’s how scary kids are

By Helen Musa CASEY Burgess, one of the live-wire performers from the kids’ touring show Hi-5, comes from a professional performing family – “It’s in my blood,” she tells “CityNews”.

She’ll be here soon with “Hi-5 Holiday”, full of dancing, favourite songs and new numbers aimed to please the very young.

A chorus member of “Annie” by the age of 11, Casey has been a cast member of Hi-5 since 2008. She’s a young

veteran, but when she found herself auditioning for Hi-5, she said to herself: “I know I want this”.

But it’s not all song and dance.

Young audiences can be “one thousand per cent honest… it’s amazing the things they can yell out… sometimes they’ll say, ‘I don’t like you’ – they’re always one step ahead of you,” says Casey.

“So if your enthusiasm and passion disappeared or if you were having a midlife crisis that showed in the per-

formance, it would be time to get out.”

Children are pretty much the same the world over, Casey says. Hi-5 has played in NZ, the Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore, in the latter so popular that they’ve returned several times.

In countries where English is not spoken, there have been some “real eye-openers”.

“We’re on TV in Colombia, and we’re dubbed into Spanish… it’s amazing to watch yourself,” Casey says.

One thing that slightly worries her is the dependence of some parents on Hi-5. “You’re like our babysitter,” they tell her.

But on a more positive note, Casey particularly loves the humanitarian side of her work, performing for kids who are in hospital or otherwise ill.

“Hi-5 Holiday”, Canberra Theatre, April 24, 11.30am and 1.30pm, bookings to www.canberratheatrecentre.com.au

Hi-5 star Casey Burgess... comes from a professional performing family.

Where are the personalities?

I HAD a call from a man bemoaning what appeared to be a dearth of real personalities in Canberra sport.

I questioned him on this, saying sportspeople such as Josh Dugan, Lauren Jackson, Michelle Heyman and Jesse Mogg expressed themselves in their sporting endeavours.

I felt that it takes time for an athlete to feel confident in expressing themselves and Canberra sport is going through a rebuilding process.

The call did get me thinking as he really had a good point.

Times have changed and in the days before social media, the players and athletes had few outlets apart from mainstream media in which to make a comment.

The caller harked back to the day when local sporting teams had larger-than-life personalities such as Mal Meninga, Ricky Stuart, Bradley Clyde, Glen Lazarus, Laurie Daley and the list goes on, with the Raiders in their golden years; while the Brumbies side had personalities such as Joe Roff, George Gregan, Rod Kafer, Steve Larkham, Bill Young and Jeremy Paul. The Cannons were also in full flight with the likes of Phil Smyth.

6 CityNews April 19-25

Tim Gavel sport

Ricky Stuart.

Perhaps the commitment to the one club or one town was a factor and now players move around so much more.

These days sportspeople are far more careful in what they say; many are image conscious and reluctant to go outside the constraints placed on them by media “spin doctors” and they are trained in what they should say.

The question is: Has it swung too far the other way?

Are we really learning a great deal about the personalities or the human side of athletes these days? This is not just happening in Canberra; the same issues are arising in sports media throughout the world.

What we are seeing now is a sense of “sameness” in what athletes are saying. I concede

it is the media that is partly to blame. We criticise sportspeople if they say outrageous things, yet at the same time crave the spontaneity of athletes such as John Steffenson.

Thankfully, we have Twitter where sportspeople provide outsiders with an insight into their world. I would go as far as to say it is now being used as a pseudo press release by some athletes keen to express themselves outside the bounds of the carefully managed news conferences.

The upcoming Olympics could prove to be an interesting time for athletes with a Twitter account. It will probably be just as interesting for sporting administrators.

ON another issue I would like to make a public apology for encouraging people to get behind the “A League for Canberra” campaign. As it turned out, it was close to a waste of time with Football Federation Australia intent on setting up a team in Western Sydney all along, yet going through a bidding process. Sure, it fell financially short, but the FFA proved with Western Sydney that it was prepared to support a start-up club. Sorry as well to Ivan Slavich for encouraging him to become the front man for the A League bid.

CityNews April 19-25 7

news

Couple gets a hit from happy hours WANT to know where the happy hours specials are in Canberra, but don’t know where to look?

Freyla Ferguson

Married couple, IT specialist Louis and web developer Canaan Ridge have turned a hobby into allhappyhours.com.au, a website where people can see, share and comment on happy hour specials from pubs, bars and restaurants around Canberra.

“It came out of; ‘we need a hobby’,” Canaan said.

“And then shortly after we thought, ‘we need a hobby’, I thought, ‘we need a website that shows happy hours’.

“It’s fun, we do it outside of work and we just love doing it.”

Canaan, originally from the US, said happy hour specials in the States was a “huge thing”.

“Everyone knows where to go, what time to get the best deals, and it really creates a great atmosphere when you are out at places,” Canaan said.

“I really liked that. It really encourages people to get out there and get social, try new places and see new things,” Louis said.

“If Canberra has something similar, why not make it a way to share happy hours and talk about it.”

The website currently finds happy hour specials for food and drink by using a map or drop-down menu. Users are also able to find specials by day, beverage or food.

“You know where you are or where you want to be,” Louis said.

“You can have friends northside or southside and you can meet somewhere in the middle.”

At the moment, the couple wants more Canber-

rans to jump on to the site, join the conversation and add any deals they know of in their area.

“In the future, I would like to have a poll, to ask people what sort of happy hours they would like to see,” Louis said.

“So people can say there’s obviously enough interest here, is there a venue that can offer it?”

He is also looking to develop a “plan your night” function.

“Say you want to start your night off here, with tapas, then you want to move on to somewhere with cocktails or whatever else,” Louis said.

The couple, who met when Canaan moved from Tennessee to Canberra for study, is currently developing another website called Competitive Life, where individuals and businesses can share their competitions whether it be an open social competition, a corporate sports competition or just a group of friends creating their own event.

“It’s a central place where people can come together and compete,” Canaan said.

Canaan said as part of the website, they will have “Post to Boast”, where people can post a competitive achievement they think is “awesome”.

“You know how people achieve something, but it’s not exactly ‘Olympic-worthy’,” Louis said.

Competitive Life hasn’t been launched yet, but the couple says it won’t be long before people are able to use it. allhappyhours.com.au creators Canaan and Louis More information at allhappyhours.com.au or Ridge... “It’s fun, we do it outside of work and we just competitivelife.com.au love doing it,” says Canaan.

Photo by Silas Brown

8 CityNews April 19-25

reports

briefly Pegasus opens stables PEGASUS Riding for the Disabled ACT will open its stable doors at Drake Brockman Drive, Holt, to showcase its Adopt-a-Pony program at this year’s Pegasus gala Open Day, 11am-3pm, on Saturday, May 5. The program is an opportunity for businesses and the wider community to assist in the upkeep of Pegasus’ 18 ponies and horses to help guarantee riders with a disability in the Canberra region ongoing programs and facilities at Pegasus. More information from enquires@pegasus.com.au or call 6254 9190.

Walking to school THE 13th National Walk Safely to school day will be held on on Friday, May 18. The experience assists primary school children to learn about about pedestrian safety and the importance of regular exercise.

Zumba to the max A FUNDRAISING event “So You Think You Can Zumba” will be held at Deakin Fitness First, 10.45am, Saturday, May 26. It is a competition to find out who is the best zumba dancer while raising funds and awareness for the Brain Injury Association of NSW. Entry fee is $15 and there will be a raffle and prizes. More information from organiser Lauren Hernandez at laurenhernandez87@ hotmail.com

news / opinion

Of nannies, bottoms and principles TONY Abbott’s proposal that the Robert Macklin taxpayer pick up some of the cost of the gadfly nannies for wealthy working mums is Greer got her laugh and there it should part of a strategy to make the Liberal have ended. But then Abbott made the misleader appear more “woman friendly”.

It doesn’t matter that most of his front bench disagrees, that it would be impossible to administer, that it’s expensive, wasteful, middle-class welfare and wide open to systematic rorting.

All these objections are mere fripperies beside the essential imperative: to create for Tony an acceptable image among women voters.

It has dawned on the Coalition that while Labor is deeply vulnerable, the one great impediment is the man who leads them. Women don’t like him, so the plan is to push ahead with his “Rolls Royce” maternity payment and anything else they can think of to burnish his appeal to the fairer sex.

Nice idea. But along came Germaine Greer on the ABC’s “Q&A” program with her admonition to Julia Gillard to abandon her fancy jackets and come to terms with her ample bottom (to put it more politely than Germs).

take of jumping delightedly on the Greer sneer. Just couldn’t help himself. And in a single unguarded moment he undid all that earlier posturing.

In fact, I think it’s a much more serious mistake than he – or the Liberals – realise.

You see, what totally escapes them is that every woman in Australia over 16 thinks her bum’s too big. It’s one thing for someone of their own sex to use it as a throwaway line, but quite another for a man to say it. And for Abbott to revel in the put down was just, well, insupportable.

Now I don’t expect a sudden reversal of the polls showing the Libs losing their election-winning lead based on a silly remark. But I’d lay odds that Abbott’s personal popularity continues its downward slide. And this must finally focus attention on the elephant in the Liberal Party room: when will Malcolm Turnbull make his move on the leadership?

At the moment, because of his stand on climate change, he is regarded as the

one “man of principle” in the party and perhaps the entire Parliament. But the fact is that he is prepared to remain in the shadow cabinet while he disagrees with some of the most fundamental policies Abbott is actively promoting.

Climate change is the most obvious one and Abbott is basing his entire campaign on an attack on a policy to which Turnbull is totally committed. Another is gay marriage – Turnbull and Abbott are diametrically opposed. Another is Abbott’s Rolls Royce maternity leave. Turnbull thinks it’s nuts. Another is foreign investment – Abbott wants tighter conditions; Turnbull favours the status quo. Another is protection posing as “food security” – Abbott is for, Turnbull against.

But the real clincher is the NBN, which Abbott ordered Turnbull to “destroy” when he put him in charge of the shadow portfolio. What a joke. Turnbull has attacked it with all the concentrated political artillery of a broken popgun. He actually believes in it.

Perhaps the real point is this: how long can you call yourself a “man of principle” when you’re prepared to fight an election on policies you abhor? robert@robertmacklin.com

letters

dose of dorin

Welcome to Cambra EVERY time I tune into one of the Canberra radio stations, especially 2CC or even the ABC, I hear a totally wrong pronunciation of the word “Canberra”, as the announcers, broadcasters and radio station identifiers are pronouncing the name as “Cam-bra”.

As this wrong pronunciation has become an attitude and many Canberra persons are copying the same intonation, I suggest that for the celebrations of the centenary of the city, the name should be changed to Cambra.

During the last 10 years, the slackness of pronunciation and the incorrect grammar of the English language used by journalists, radio announcers, politicians, teachers or other professional people is just unpleasant and more a mixture of shoddy American or vernacular English.

Can you imagine French people would pronounce Paris as Pris; Germans, Berin for Berlin; Italians, Ro for Roma, or the British Lond for London? The city’s name is also its business card and should be pronounced correctly or changed altogether.

Prof (ret.) G Y Land

Reminds me of the PM WHEN Chief Minister Katy Gallagher says she is “actually really, bloody tough” (CN, April 5) I believe her.

You’d have to be to claw your way to the top of the ALP, where politics is, despite the laughable claim to be the party of compassion, a blood sport.

Just ask Kevin Rudd. Who? Gallagher refused to comment a year or two back after a premature baby died, after possibly being exposed to a deadly disease in a maternity ward in hospital.

Clip me round the ear if I am wrong, but Gallagher showed no accountability to the taxpayers who pay her salary and fund the health system. Did she say that if the coronial inquest showed any weaknesses in the system they would be fixed?

No. The matter is subject to a coronial inquest, was all she said.

Did anything useful come out of this inquest? Not that I recall.

So I believe the CM when she says she is “actually really, bloody tough”.

Reminds me of the PM.

John Cleland, Latham

Walter would be turning I AGREE totally with A. Medcalf’s letter (“Proud of Bush Capital”, CN March 29), about the sad state of newly developing estates in this, the increasingly ill-named “Bush Capital”.

It appalls me to see the continuing trend of new developments across the region, where housing block sizes have, for no apparent reason, other than developer and government greed, been reduced to barely more than the increasingly large houses being built upon them.

With so much available land space in the ACT, it is incongruous to be reducing land sizes to an

average size of 450sqm. Where do the children play? The gardeners garden?

The barbecuers entertain? The pets run? The residents find peace, privacy and sanctuary?

With decreased plantings due to lack of space, future problems could include urban salinity. Salinity causes structural deterioration and shortens the life of urban infrastructure such as roads, buildings, water and sewage pipes.

This pseudo-subdivision of urban lots has so many negative consequences, one has to question why the Government is being so short-sighted in allowing this to happen?

Walter Burley Griffin would surely turn in his grave to see what is becoming of his beloved plan for an ideal city!

Tracey Smith-Jones, via email CityNews April 19-25 9

Anzac Day, Wednesday, April 25 / special feature

Remembering the year that turned the war This year, Anzac Day salutes the 70th anniversary of the year that marked a turning point for the Allies in World War II – a year when some of the war’s biggest battles were won.

IN February 1942, a shadow of fear and anxiety crept over Australia; Singapore had fallen to the Japanese with 15,000 Australian soldiers captured. Four days later Darwin was bombed.

Described by then-Prime Minister John Curtin as “the gravest hour of our history”, what started with two shocking events in Australia’s World War II campaign, developed into a year that became a turning point for the Allied Forces and for the Australian soldiers who were involved in key battles in Asia, the Pacific and North Africa.

“1942 was a really important year in World War II,” Australian War Memorial historian Lachlan Grant said.

“The mid-point of the war, it was a year that began with a lot of fear and anxiety because early in the year was the ‘Fall of Singapore’, which was an event that really shocked Australia. It was something that was almost unforeseen.

“The media and propaganda said that Singapore was

Crusader tanks, manned by the 9th Australian Divisional Cavalry regiment, west of El Alamein, North Africa, July, 1942.

Photo courtesy AWM

a fortress and it wasn’t going to fall.

“So for that news to come, you could imagine it was a shock. And four days later, Darwin being bombed would have compounded that kind of anxiety and fear.”

But the tides were about to change; 1942, marked a turning point for the Allies in World War II, a year when some of the war’s biggest battles were won.

“Throughout the year the war and the mood was slowly turned around,” Dr Grant said.

“We had the campaign for Kokoda, which ended in a victory for the Allies.

“There were also big battles in North Africa, at El Alamein where the Australian 9th division played a critical role.

“It was a tumultuous year. It started with a period where we’re really not sure how it’s going to go, but by the end of the year people are quite confident that the Allies will win the war.

“They don’t know when the end date will be and they’re are not sure how long it will be, but the mood has swung.

“But that’s also little relief for people waiting to hear news of the welfare of 30,000 Australians in Europe and Asia who are prisoners of war at this time.

“On one level there’s confidence that they are going to win the war, but they also don’t know what that’s going to mean in terms of how long, or how many lives will be lost.”

According to Dr Grant, for many Australian soldiers entering World War II, the Anzac legend was something to look up to and to aspire to.

“Soldiers were very much aware of the Anzac legend and they were very conscious of keeping up the tradition,” he said.

Australian troops rest after repelling the Japanese in the “Fall of Gona” during the Battle of the Beachheads in Papua, December, 1942.

Photo courtesy AWM “There was, you could almost call it, ‘cultural baggage’ in a way. It was something that had really developed in Australia in the 1920s and ‘30s.

“One measure is the popular literature that came out after the war. There was a number of books and a number of memoirs and the like.

“It was one of those cultural developments that developed so quickly after the war.

“It also helped to try and provide a sense of purpose to the conflict for Australians.”

Dr Grant also said World War II soldiers felt an expectation to live up to the Anzac legend.

“There was also this sense of expectancy that Australians made natural soldiers,” he said.

“So a part of the aspirational image for individual

soldiers there was those expectations as well.

“You can see in the way the stories are told, you do have Australians taking part in very successful campaigns, or showing a lot of determination in campaigns like Kokoda.

“The way in which the prisoners and the Japanese stories are told, very much draws the characteristics of the Anzac spirit.”

More information about Anzac Day at the Australian War Memorial, including parking and transport , at awm.gov.au AWM Dawn Service starts 5.30am (suggested arrival from 4.30am onwards) and the National Ceremony starts 10.15am (suggested arrival by 9.45am).

DAWN SERVICE 5.30 am NATIONAL CEREMONY 10.15 am

WEDNESDAY 25 APRIL For information on access, buses and other details, visit www.awm.gov.au

10 CityNews April 19-25

Catholic Schools Week

Week to celebrate and CATHOLIC Schools Week is about celebration with the aim of raising awareness and celebrating the strength and distinctiveness of Catholic schools.

across NSW and the ACT. During the week Catholic schools will showcase what they have to offer and invite the community to experience teaching and learning.

In this special feature, “CityNews” discovers what This year, the week will be held from April 29 to May some of the best Catholic schools in the ACT have to 5 and involve Catholic primary and secondary schools offer.

Pursuing studies with purpose and confidence MARIST College is an independent Catholic school for boys in the Marist tradition.

The college has been educating boys in Canberra since 1968, fostering a school climate that allows boys to pursue their studies with purpose and confidence, says head of school Richard Sidorko.

“Their belief is that a safe, encouraging and nurturing environment helps promote a student’s full growth as they transform into young men who are the best they can be,” says Mr Sidorko.

Marist students are characterised as possessing “a strong mind and a gentle heart” and students are urged to be caring, loyal and considerate of others.

Pastoral care is a prime focus of the college. Each

boy is known as a unique and accepted member of the Marist family, in an environment where each boy is encouraged to develop as a person.

Marist has an extensive outdoor-education program.

Students are also involved in team sports such as cricket, basketball, rugby union, football, Australian Rules Football and hockey as well as cross country, athletics, swimming, snow sports and judo.

There is a selection of indoor clubs, and creative and performing arts are central to the formal and the informal curriculum.

Marist College, Marr Street, Pearce. Open day Sunday, May 6. Contact 6298 7200 or go to maristc.act.edu.au

Proudly inclusive ST John Vianney’s in Weston Creek strives to build a vibrant and welcoming community by teaching the importance of Christ and prides itself on being an inclusive school, says acting principal Nina Di Placido.

“Children, no matter what their needs, are welcomed and every effort is made to support all students and families in our school,” she says.

“Our school strives to live out the Gospel values of love and respect for all and achieves its mission by following the example of our Patron Saint, John Vianney.

“St John Vianney’s seeks to develop the curriculum so that it is individualised, inclusive and enables all students to participate in their learning with confidence and an appreciation of their self-worth.

“We aim to develop the uniqueness and potential of every child in our care.”

St John Vianney’s, Namatjira Drive, Waramanga. Open day Wednesday, May 2. More information at 6288 2383 or office.sjv@ cg.catholic.edu.au or go to sjv.act. edu.au

12 CityNews April 19-25

April 29 to May 5 / advertising feature

raise Catholic awareness The ‘irresistible’ experience of co-education CATHOLIC co-education is the perfect way for boys and girls to learn, according to the principal of St Mary MacKillop College, Michael Lee. At MacKillop, Canberra’s largest secondary school, boys and girls learn together, promoting a mutual respect for gender difference and cohesive intellectual energy, all in a learning environment that best reflects the society its students

belong to and are being prepared to one day lead.

According to Mr Lee, the allure of co-education is “irresistible”, especially in a Catholic school where the students are nurtured and valued.

“Learning in early childhood centres is co-educational, most K-6 primary schools are co-educational, and both CIT and university are co-educational, as is the workplace,

as are most families” Mr Lee says.

“Why would you not have the irresistible experience of co-education in those crucial high school years?” he says.

MacKillop College – Wanniassa Campus (Years 7-9): Mackinnon Street, Wanniassa, Isabella Campus (Years 10-12): Ellerston Avenue, Isabella Plains. Year 7 information night on Monday, May 7 at 6.30pm at the Wanniassa Campus.

College where ‘boys thrive’

Vision of encouraging growth

ST Edmund’s College boasts an impressive range of facilities.

One campus accommodates students from Years 4-12. The Middle School of Years 4-7 offers the intimacy of a smaller school while also providing access to the range of resources and facilities of a large school.

Principal Peter Fullagar says students enjoy the continuity of friendships, teaching staff and location as they move through their school years.

“Boys thrive in this environment,” he says.

“At St Edmund’s College, we understand that the transition

THE St Thomas Aquinas educational philosophy is based upon the vision statement of encouraging the growth of each person through friendship with Jesus, says principal John Bourke.

“We believe in education in faith in the Catholic tradition and we lead by example,” he says.

“At St Thomas Aquinas we appreciate and value the uniqueness of all members of our school community and respect and value the different cultures and backgrounds of all.”

The Parish School of St Thomas Aquinas is situated in Lhotsky Street, Charnwood. The school serves the

between primary school and high school can, at times, be both difficult and stressful for boys and their families. Thus, our Year 7 boys remain within our Middle School where they are able to comfortably transition into the more demanding high school environment.

“The staff of St Edmund’s College are well attuned to the needs of boys, academic, spiritual and developmental, and seek always to nurture the very best in each of them.”

St Edmund’s College, Canberra Avenue, Griffith. Contact 6295 3598 or reception@stedmunds.act.edu.au or go to stedmunds.act.edu.au

Focus on literacy and numeracy ST Michael’s Primary School in Kaleen is a Catholic systemic school catering for 222 students from Kindergarten to Year 6.

The school is situated on spacious and well-kept grounds featuring extensive and varied playing spaces for all students, says principal Judy Walsh.

“St Michael’s is staffed by highly trained professionals who are committed to providing the best of Catholic education for children,” she says.

“The school is committed to

providing strong quality curriculum in all academic areas and provides an education based on the values of Jesus.

“St Michael’s has a particular focus on developing literacy and numeracy skills across the school.”

St Michael’s Primary School, Tyrrell Circuit, Kaleen. Open days on Tuesday, May 8 and Wednesday, May 23. More information at 6241 4022 or office. stmichaelsps@cg.catholic.edu.au or go to stmichaelsps.act.edu.au

community of West Belconnen which includes Charnwood, Dunlop, Macgregor, West Macgregor, Flynn, Fraser, Holt and Latham. A bus also runs from Murrumbateman on a daily basis.

“As a Parish School we have embedded links to our parish led by Father Drinkwater and assisted by Sr Colleen Howe,” says Mr Bourke.

The School Parish Community has a strong Parents and Friends Association and a vibrant school board.

St Thomas Aquinas, 5 Lhotsky Street, Charnwood. Contact 6258 4077 or go to staquinas.act.edu.au

CityNews April 19-25 13

opinion

It’s time for a tax break THE ACT Government relies too heavily on a narrow tax base. More than 50 per cent of its revenue comes from taxes on property and that structural flaw is getting worse.

If Canberra is to be a preferred place to live, do business and provide gainful employment, the Government must put aside the temptation to score political points against investors and instead adopt policies which are pro-business.

That doesn’t mean subsidies or special programs; it simply means freeing up business from excessive rules and regulations and getting rid of punitive and inefficient taxes.

The property sector underpins economic growth, jobs and salaries as well as the tax base in the ACT – and pays more than any other industry in Canberra.

And a recent survey undertaken by Auspoll has found that most Canberrans believe the Government is doing a poor job in terms of setting a fair level of taxation when people buy or sell properties. Simply put, Canberra property taxes are too high.

Property contributes more than half of all Territory taxes and pays 23 cents in every dollar generated in economic growth – compared to an average of four cents among other industries.

Will that proportion still be increasing in 10 years’ time? The trend clearly cannot continue without eventually losing investment in property, reducing job opportunities, reducing the tax take and, inevitably, resulting in reduced publicly-funded services.

Many of the taxes, such as stamp duties on property transactions and the Lease Variation

Catherine Carter property

Charge, are inefficient, drive up prices and decrease housing affordability in a market of controlled supply, reduce the amount and diversity of residential accommodation, undermine the Government’s own policy of revitalisation and greater housing density near shopping centres and transport routes and detract from economic growth.

Removing those taxes would boost activity, growth and therefore Government revenue.

The best, and possibly only, alternative source of government income is from accelerated private-sector growth.

Canberra must become a more attractive place for private investment. A less onerous taxation regime than NSW would be a good start.

It would also help if the Government dropped its antagonistic rhetoric against property investors. Such attacks by the Government create one more risk factor when an investor is weighing up whether to invest in the ACT. An investor has to take into account the probability of antagonistic rhetoric ultimately finding expression in higher taxes and charges or increased regulation and compliance costs.

Tax on the property sector some six times greater than the average is a reflection of the Government’s view, which warns off investors.

Catherine Carter is ACT Executive Director of the Property Council of Australia

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14 CityNews April 19-25

scene / around canberra

invite us / scene@citynews.com.au

At the Google Art Project launch, National Gallery of Australia

Jirra Harvey, Jennifer Dobbins, Gillian French and Kate Groves

Andrew Wilsmore and Opposition Leader Zed Seselja

Steve Fanner and Gwyn Rees

Education Minister Chris Burke and Julie Ryder

Trudi Bean and Nerida O’Loughlin

Jai Tongbor, Daniel Rex and Clarissa Hewitt

David and Madeleine Perceval with Dr Andrew Lu

Anita and Roman Barbera

Julia Wilson, Angus Minns and Siobhan Ion

James Wilson, Nicola Powell and Johnathan Efkarpidis

Bruce and Ann Ronning

Dr Robin Hirst and Simon Elliott

Clare Sorensen and Matt Tindale

CityNews April 19-25 15

scene

invite us / scene@citynews.com.au

At ‘Life of Patrick White’, National Library of Australia

At the ‘Made in Cuba’ exhibition, High Court of Australia

Anne Marie Schwirtlich, Jim Spigelman, Barbara Mobbs and Judy Davis

Robert Boynes and Sarit Cohen

Nena Nikolic and Antonia Kasunic

16 CityNews April 19-25

Amanda Muggleton and Angela Punch-McGregor

Clare McHugh, John Stokes and Marion Halligan

Gabriella, John and Gian Falzon

Vincent Plush and Robyn Holmer

Jeannie Ellis and Karma Bains

MLA Mary Porter and Ian De Landelles

Martina Weizmann and Melissa Vittorio

Sandra Arcos-Holzinger, Leonor Pinzon and Asa Rowe

Cuban ambassador Pedro Monzon Barata and wife Celia

Peter Dickens and Denise Morgan

scene

more photos / www.citynews.com.au

At the Snowy Mountains of Music launch, Tilley’s Devine Cafe Gallery, Lyneham

Catherine Andrews, Bettina Richter and Kathy Mackell

Robbie Rynehart and Mike Kelly MP

Russell Pearson and Scott O’Regan

David Sheldon and Peter Sheppard

Belinda Shaw and Tracy Thew

CityNews April 19-25 17

Canberra Confidential Good news: Jess is back!

Edward out of the cloisters

IT’S been less than two years but the former face of ACT WIN News, Jessica Good, is back in town!

With her hubby and almost 10-month-old baby, Hugo, in tow, Jess and the family has decided to swap the country life of Young for a “change of pace and a new challenge”.

Jess left Canberrra, and her high-profile job of WIN News anchor, to edit “Lifestyle Magazine” in Young alongside her husband, who was managing the publication.

Although they are still shareholders in the company, the young family “want to call Canberra home”.

Between looking after baby Hugo, Jess has just taken up a part-time position at the Home Loan Centre as marketing and communications manager.

“I’m so happy to be back,” she says.

UC’s media manager Ed O’Daly has stepped out from the university’s cloisters for a job at the business end of Government – senior communications officer in the Chief Minister’s office.

Now known as “Edward”, his life in the fast lane appears to be a tentative one. An email from UC said: “Ed O’Daly will be away from the university until November.”

Which means he’s heading home straight after the October election!

Former WIN News reporter and newly-wed Amanda Powell (now Jones) will now be in charge of the university’s media office.

Cowra comes of ‘Age’ “CC” hears that “The Queanbeyan Age”, which has been edited across the border for the past few years from “The Chronicle” offices in nearby Fyshwick, will now join the Fairfax Regional Network. And while this means it is sensibly heading back to NSW, we hear it will be edited even further away from home, in Cowra!

The weekly, paid newspaper is one of the oldest papers in the country, first published in 1860 under the masthead “The Golden Age”.

Arise, Sir Tony

New mum Jessica Good... back to live in Canberra.

18 CityNews April 19-25

Know something? / confidential@citynews.com.au

YOU read it first... “CityNews” hinted weeks ago that former Canberran Tony Llewellyn-Jones is taking over from Philip Quast as Sir Humphrey Appleby for the coming Gold Coast and subsequent seasons of “Yes, Prime Minister”. And now it’s been confirmed. Quast is leaving to perform in a Melbourne Theatre Tony LlewellynCompany show.

Jones.

Mixologist Jared Thibault...

“I’m all about balance.”

Photo by Silas Brown

Mixologist Jared’s all bitters but not twisted THERE’S a new twist on the cocktail menu at one of Canberra’s newest bars, Bellabar, and it’s all thanks to senior mixologist Jared Thibault.

Say, what? Mixologist?

“It’s someone that takes ingredients from scratch and creates their own concoctions, instead of taking someone else’s and re-doing them,” explains Jared who hails from Rhode Island, and has worked in numerous resorts across the US. Jared, who has worked alongside some of the world’s best mixologists, was sent to Canberra’s Rydges Lakeside to teach the staff at Bellabar

his tricks of the trade.

For Jared, bitters are the key to his 13 signature cocktails, and when “CC” says bitters, we’re not talking your typical Angostura Bitters.

All up, he’s collected 24 different bitters from Habanero – the perfect ingredient for his “Smoking Guns” beer-based cocktail, to chocolate, walnut, peach and Tiki – a pineapple flavoured bitter.

He says originally he aimed to collect 30 varieties, but “they aren’t as easy to find here as they are back home”.

“For any sweet cocktail, add the

right amount of bitters and it makes it more balanced, I’m all about balance,” he says.

Jared’s hoping his visit will cause a shake-up in Canberra’s bar scene.

“There’s some great bars out there, Knightsbridge, Hippo, Kremlin, they are all great guys, but I feel like they all do a lot of the same thing,” he said.

“All their cocktail lists have caprioskas, mojitos, and you can come here and you can get that.

“For me, a cocktail menu should be something you’re not familiar with.”

arts & entertainment

Wendy Johnson Going Public with good news

Spotlight on life of White WITH “The Life of Patrick White”, the National Library of Australia’s centenary tribute to Australia’s only Nobel Laureate in Literature, there is a big question mark as to how the general public will respond.

Peru.

Brazil.

Mexico.

Paraguay.

Latin festival expects big crowds FANS of the Latin American Film Festival must be careful this year.

The hugely popular event is shifting from the National Museum of Australia to the James O. Fairfax Theatre at the National Gallery of Australia, so all those ANU students who used to pack in after lectures will have to journey across town.

With 376 seats as opposed to 160, the embassies are expecting a bumper crowd.

The 8th festival will screen 11 films from all over Latin America – documentaries, thrillers, dramas and rom-coms.

It’s an exciting move, says Susan Chiriboga, of the Ecuadorian Embassy, which presents this year’s opening-night film, “Prometheus Deported”.

“We’ve managed to do an amazing sponsorship deal with the NGA,” she says.

This year, too, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Council on Australia Latin America Relations has come up with support, too.

“Film really improves AustraliaLatin American relations,” says Ecuadorian ambassador Raúl

Helen Musa arts editor

Gangotena. “It’s a very effective way of expanding knowledge.”

An eloquent advocate for his region, Gangotena believes film directors are free-minded people who tell their stories truly. But he suspects sometimes his ambassadorial colleagues are uncomfortable about the more cutting-edge films, as they like their nations to be presented in a favourable light.

“We have a history of inequity… if filmmakers did not stress that ‘big fact’ they would be hiding the reality and audiences wouldn’t be interested,” he says.

But there’s good news.

“We have recovered from dictatorships… and the love of freedom and human rights is strong – I feel I can say that for the whole region,” says Gangotena, who also notes a strong drive to defend discrimination against indigenous, African and sexual minorities.

The popularity of the film festival coincides with evidence that our

trade with Latin America is growing faster than with any part of the world except for China.

“Australians are culturally cultivated people who were willing to see the world in a different way,” says Gangotena. He expects 1500 Canberrans to attend and about the same in the other cities.

One uncomfortable reality concerns economic emigrants from Latin America. Ecuador’s opening film, “Prometheus Deported” (a twist on the title of Aeschylus’ tragedy “Prometheus Bound”) dramatising the lives of the 400,000 Ecuadorians now living in Spain, about 1/6 of the home population.

The film is set in the immigration room of an airport somewhere, as waves of immigrant Ecuadorians pass through for processing.

“You get an idea of Ecuadorians, regional rivalries, the food and the life of the country,” the ambassador says.

The 8th Latin American Film Festival, National Gallery of Australia, starting Tuesday, April 24. A different movie will be screened at 6.30pm each night until May 4. Entry free. All films are R18+ and subtitled in English.

What’s coming?

• Mexico, “Nora’s Will”: Before dying, Nora makes an elaborate plan for José, her ex-husband, who will have to manage her wake (comedy).

• Paraguay, “108 Cuchillo de Palo”: The life of an individual reveals part of the silenced history of Paraguay (creative documentary).

• Peru, “The Vigil”: Two contradicting characters share an intense and strange night in Lima (thriller).

• Uruguay, “The Pope’s Toilet”: During Pope John Paul II’s visit, the locals hope to profit by building a toilet in front of his house and charging for its use (drama).

• Venezuela, “Macuro”: Workers in a small fishing village rebel when a local cement factory with its own power plant rejects a plea for help (drama).

• Colombia, “Spectro”: Vega lives like a hermit in an apartment with a dark past (fiction).

• Cuba, “Benny”: A fictional story about the famous Cuban musician Benny Moré (drama/musical).

• Chile, “For Rent”: Failed musician Gastón, begins a new career path then meets Elisa (romantic comedy).

• Brazil, “The Year My Parents Went on Vacation”: Mauro, is left alone in a Jewish neighbourhood in 1970, the year of the World Cup and the dictatorship (drama).

• Ecuador, “Prometheus Deported”: A group of Ecuadorian immigrants are locked in a waiting room of a “first world” airport (drama).

• Argentina, “Roma”: Joaquín, an Argentine writer living in Spain, hires young Manuel to help him with his next book (drama).

The library and its curator, Matthew Jones, seem to have answered this question brilliantly in a show that contains sufficient visual material to satisfy people who have never read White’s oeuvre and those who have scrutinised almost every word he put to print.

The exhibition will take viewers on a journey through the 20th century.

White worked on the Australian land, served in World War II, lived with both the intelligentsia of Cambridge and the ordinary people of outer Sydney, and later became a belligerent street protester against uranium mining and even the Sydney monorail.

The exhibition gives insights into all of these, with photographs giving visual clarification of the Australia he saw as “the home he loved and loathed in equal measure”.

The most visually striking elements of the exhibition are the many large portraits of White.

As well, you can see his writing desk and memorabilia from his lesser-known involvement in the Australian theatre and cinema and part of the first draft of the newly-published work, “The Hanging Garden”.

This is an exhibition which has strong parallels with its predecessor, “Handwritten”, in the way it invites viewers to speculate and look further.

The detail is extraordinary. Who else but White could write letters to Santa and to the fairies in such an elegant hand, the same hand in which he planned for novels such as “The Living and the Dead” or “The Aunt’s Story” and wrote up recipes for dishes such as “haloumi soufflé”?

This is a rich exhibition likely to reveal rich treasures.

– Helen Musa

CityNews April 19-25 19

arts & entertainment / reviews

Heartache of Hester’s epiphany Dougal Macdonald cinema

“The Deep Blue Sea” (M)

AFTER nearly six decades, this is the second filming of Terence Rattigan’s stage play about passion and infidelity.

Terence Davies’ film begins with Hester, a judge’s wife, preparing to suicide. She fails. Battle of Britain fighter pilot Freddie (Tom Hiddleston) induces a sexual epiphany in her (by implication, not full-on bedroom cavorting). Flashbacks to London during the blitz, when Freddie faced death when he should have been growing to maturity, intersperse the film, but do it no benefit.

While the core of its drama is Hester’s sexual passion, when Rattigan wrote it the Lord Chamberlain still had unfettered power conferred in 1737 to ban plays offering explicit lubricity.

Rattigan had perforce to present Eros by implication. Things are different nowadays, but Davies cleaves to the ethos that Rattigan followed. That’s no bad thing, but a more modern treatment peeking behind the curtains of public morality in Britain in 1950 might have improved the film’s dramatic facade.

Projecting the anguish of a wife unfulfilled, Rachel Weisz is impressive as Hester. Simon Russell Beale as the judge quite compels our interest. Without showing Freddie’s wartime experiences, the film relies on an underlying awareness of them as some partial explanation for his domination of Hester, who grins and bears

“The Deep Blue Sea”. it for reasons not easy to understand.

I judge Davies’ remake moderately wellcrafted, but hard to justify. Its invitation for us to get involved is muted.

At Greater Union

“Battleship” (M) THERE’S still a dent in the starboard side of USS Missouri just below the main deck where a kamikaze pilot, later buried with military honours, hit in April 1945.

What’s that got to do with Peter Berg’s 133-minute film traversing the same country as other films about Uncle Sam saving humanity from extermination or enslavement by space invaders? Well, the biggest name in the cast of “Battleship” may be Liam Neeson as Admiral Shane heading to sea commanding the annual RimPac exercises, but the film’s real star is Mighty Mo, the last US Navy battleship to fire in anger (supporting Desert Storm in 1991).

A boy’s big toy, perhaps, but one of the few

elements of Berg’s film to command respect. To bring her out of retirement as a Pearl Harbour tourist site, a crew of ancient mariners comes aboard unasked and in a few hours gets her ready for sea, no mean achievement even using CG. If you liked “Independence Day”, high on any thinking-person’s list of really bad movies, you’ll love “Battleship”, which I found less obnoxious than I expected.

The cast is generally unremarkable.

Taylor Kitsch plays Alex, rescued from a life of degeneracy by his older brother, naval officer Stone. Quick as a wink, Stone has three rings on his epaulettes and two-ringer Alex is serving in USS John Paul Jones under him. Alex is scared to ask the admiral for permission to marry his busty, blonde daughter (Brooklyn Dekker).

Liam Neeson projects a detached bemusement suggesting that he was thinking, what kiddie stuff baloney the script has foisted on me!

“Battleship” has one saving grace. It’s less awful than “Independence Day”.

At Dendy, Hoyts and Limelight

‘Doubt’ raises relationship doubts “DOUBT: a parable” is a tightly written Pulitzer prize-winning script from 2005.

It’s set in a fictional Catholic school in New York in the early 1960s. The issue in doubt is the appropriateness of a relationship between Father Flynn (Jarrad West) and an adolescent student.

THEATRE

The stern and staid Sister Aloysius (Naoné Carrel) suspects the popular young priest of preying on the isolated and vulnerable student, who we don’t see.

The gullible young Sister James (Hannah McCann) oscillates between sharing her superior’s suspicion and supporting Father Flynn’s claims of innocence.

A pivotal scene plays out between Sister Aloysius and the cameo, Mrs Ruiz (Ronnie Flor), the mother of

the student in question. Flor is outstanding in the role and the tension between her and Carrel is palpable.

Notions of morality and duty of care are questioned when Mrs Ruiz reveals that her son is gay and that he has suffered violence at home and bullying in his previous school for “being what he is”. According to her, the interest that Father Flynn has taken in her son may be the best thing for him.

“Doubt: a parable”

By John Patrick Stanley Free-Rain Theatre Company The Courtyard Studio, Canberra Theatre Centre, until April 29.

Reviewed by Simone Penkethman

Winners off to the cinema The winners of the double passes to see “Cafe de Flore” are: Gaby Frey of Acton; Sonja Weinberg, Macquarie; Mitchell White, Chapman; Jean Smyth, Conder; Chris Sounness, Kaleen; David Turbayne, Watson; Antonia Lehn, Garran; Belinda Lawton, Turner; Natasha O’Connor, Narrabundah; Christine Brown, Oxley; Alana Quinn, Woden; Nina Wojcik, Acton; Kerry Blackburn, Monash; Katie Goddard, Deakin; and Carmel Pedler, Kambah.

20 CityNews April 19-25

arts & entertainment

‘Giant Peach’ fantasy hits The Street ROALD Dahl’s children’s classic “James and the Giant Peach” is heading for The Street Theatre, April 24-28. Produced by a Victorian company called Playing with Snails, this musical adaptation tells of James Henry Trotter, orphaned when his parents are killed by a rhinoceros escaped from London Zoo. “A Dahlicious fantasy,” The Street says.

Bookings to 6247 1223 or www. thestreet.org.au WONDERFUL news from artist Marilyn Hutchinson, of McKellar, that Canberra was not only well represented in the Archibald Prize, but also in the Sulman.

Pamela Horsley from Holder was a finalist with “Out, at Tidbinbilla” hanging in the Art Gallery of NSW, along with Hutchinson for her work “Joy”.

THE NGA has announced that its just-closed “Renaissance” exhibition attracted almost 213,000 visitors and injected an estimated $75 million into the ACT economy. Great news, but how do they estimate that kind of injection so quickly?

IF you’re quick, you can catch Vivien Lightfoot’s unsual ceramic sculpture exhibition “Substance” at ANCA Gallery, 1 Rosevear Street, Dickson, running until

Helen Musa

pianist James Hunting Ford will perform, among other things, arts in the city Artie Shaw and Schubert in the Wesley Music Centre’s Lunchtime Sunday, April 22.

Live series from 12.40pm to THE timely 8th Molonglo 1.20pm on April 27. $2 or paper Exhibition, “Water = Life?” is note entry. No bookings required. coming up. Sponsors are ACTEW BEN Kane, a YWCA of Canberra Corporation and the Molonglo youth worker, was inspired by Catchment Group, who provide a documentary about kids the first and second prizes of in Calcutta to get some of $2000 and $500 respectively. A Canberra’s more disadvantaged third prize of $200 in vouchers has kids involved in photography. been donated by Pepe’s Paperie The outcome is a collaboration and there’s a People’s Choice between the YWCA’s SCOPE award. At CSIRO Discovery Centre, Youth Services at the Mura Clunies Ross Street, April 23-29 Lanyon Youth & Community (10am-5pm on Wednesday-Friday Centre and PhotoAccess, which and 11am-3pm Saturday and provided resources and taught Sunday). the kids photography and black CERAMIC artists Walter Auer, and white film development and Roderick Bamford, Stephen printing. The result is “Pictures Bird, Jacqueline Clayton, Andrea of Life,” a reflection of their Hylands, Addison Marshall, Pip experience of living in the Lanyon McManus and Paul Wood have area, at Tuggeranong Arts Centre, “re-imagined” the uses of clay in 9am-5pm, Monday-Fridays, until an Object Gallery touring exhibiApril 30. tion “Hyperclay: Contemporary “TITANIC: The Musical” will take Ceramics”. More than 30 short, the stage for a revival of Supa informative videos accompany Productions’ hit success from the show. At Watson Arts Centre, some years ago. Great costumes, Aspinall Street, 10am-4pm good singing. At the ANU Arts Thursday to Sunday, until April 29. Centre, May 14-28, bookings to ANU School of Music students, 6257 1950. Dinner and show packsoprano Jessica Westcott, ages at Teatro Vivaldi, bookings Vivien Lightfoot’s ceramic sculpture “Phosphorus”... at clarinettist James Moorhouse and to 6257 2718.

ANCA Gallery until April 22.

High praise for a sinking feeling MUSICAL THEATRE “Titanic – the Musical” ANU Arts Centre, until May 5.

Reviewed by Bill Stephens.

IT was always going to be a night to remember. Many of the audience wore period costumes to salute the initiative of Supa Productions in presenting its second production of the musical “Titanic” exactly 100 years to the day from the actual sinking, and were rewarded with a magnificent ensemble performance, which had them cheering.

Director Garrick Smith has assembled a huge cast of Canberra’s finest music theatre performers, taken advantage of the larger stage and included impressive multimedia effects to add fascinating detail to the events happening above and below the decks. Fine performances abound especially from Peter Dark, the owner; Dave Evans, the builder and Max Gambale, the captain.

Maury Yeston has gifted this show with a gorgeously atmospheric score and among the many pleasures of this production is just how well this challenging score is sung by the cast, and played by the excellent orchestra assembled and conducted by Rose Shorney.

Particularly memorable musical highlights include Pete Ricardo and Simon Stone’s luminous duet “The Proposal/ The Night Was Alive”, Emma White and Brian Daly with “I Have Danced” and Sarah Golding, Kate Brand and Rebecca Franks with “Lady’s Maid”.

Clever set design, beautiful costumes and neatly appropriate choreography all add lustre to beautifullypaced production, which falters only in the second half when a series of static scenes, played out on a sloping gangplank on one side of the stage, interrupt the sweep of an otherwise extraordinarily accomplished production.

CityNews April 19-25 21

dining

Going Public with good news PUBLIC, in Manuka, has been the talk of the town since opening with a bang late last year and has already won an award for its amazing fit-out.

After the initial rush (Canberrans love new places) the Public team has done what good establishments do, and that’s fine tune.

Breakfast is now served weekends and public holidays, both the pub and restaurant menus feature new dishes definitely worth trying and the “liquid menu” features new varieties and price points.

I first dined in the restaurant and fell in love with the grilled Leader prawns and, recently, the new peanut butter and chocolate parfait (a marriage made in heaven). I’ve now dined in the pub and the new dishes get a thumbs up.

A pub isn’t a pub without a darn good pie and Public’s modern interpretation of the legendary pie floater – just introduced – has already become a signature dish ($19), with chunks of tender beef encased in flaky pastry and served with creamy mash, mint peas and gravy. $20 specials now include pizza and beer on Mondays, burger and beer on Tuesdays and pub-style fish and chips with a wine or beer on Wednesdays. Public has introduced “5@5” Fridays – selected beer, champers or wine for $5 (5pm to 6pm) – perfect for a friendly gathering after work.

The sharing menu is great, including edamame beans with sea salt ($8) or the fun new “bee sting” – fried jalapeno chilli stuffed with fetta, lime and pine nuts ($12). We went for the Szechuan chilli prawns ($21) and Shantung lamb pancakes ($15). Squeeze fresh lime over the plump prawns and dip them in the pepper, being careful with the first dip (you can add, but can’t take away!).

We rolled the lamb into the thin pancakes and enjoyed with hoisin sauce.

The pie-floater...already a signature dish.

Dining reviewer WENDY JOHNSON lets go of her earlier reservations with a second look at Manuka’s new (and improved) hot spot, Public

Public’s fabulous fit-out... the team has done what good establishments do, and that’s fine tune.

Photos by Leighton Hutchinson Pubs are famous for finger licking-good food like barbecue-basted pork ribs and Public’s are sticky and yummy. The 200-day grain fed rump is now $29 (350 grams). Stone fired pizzas are $21 in the pub (self-serve) and $23 in the restaurant (full service). The line-up includes simple, but tasty tomato, buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil as well as more in-depth minced lamb, cherry tomato, Persian fetta, spinach and tzatziki.

We dug into the linguine tossed with Balmain bugs, baby fennel and leeks in a white wine sauce from the specials board ($32). I’m not a big creamy-sauce fan but this was light and the bugs beautiful.

Beers now start at $7, wines by the glass at $7.50 and premium pour drinks, such as Johnny Walker Black and Belvedere Vodka, $8. Tantalising cocktails are now $16. And it’s great that Public offers some wines by the half carafe.

Other refinements are being planned, and it’s hats off to Public for shifting the way they move.

Public, Flinders Way and Franklin Street, Manuka. Open Monday-Friday, 10am till late; Saturday, Sunday and public holidays 8.30am till late. Call 6161 8808.

Breaking news Get the latest news straight to your inbox each afternoon from the citynews.com.au newsroom.

Scan the QR code to subscribe 22 CityNews April 19-25

health & fitness

Fitting in those essential serves WE all know we’re supposed to eat our fruit and veggies each day, but so many of us find it hard to fit in the recommended two serves of fruit and five serves of vegetables.

We can all put a banana on breakfast cereal and snack on the odd carrot stick or apple, but for those people struggling to get more fruit and veggies into their diet and into their kids, the Heart Foundation has some tips.

1. Veggies at breakfast might sound a bit weird at first, but here are some ideas that are easier than you think: • Try baked beans or creamed corn on wholegrain toast.

• Use left-over roasted veggies to make bubble and squeak and for hearty appetites, top with an egg.

• Spread toast with hummus and top with a few slices of avocado and tomato and finish with cracked pepper.

2. Cut up fresh fruit in season and serve it on a platter after dinner – you’ll be amazed how quickly it disappears.

3. Winter fruit is delicious served hot as a dessert – and it’s easy to prepare, too. Think apples or pears stewed with dates, cinnamon

and cloves and served with low-fat custard with the Heart Foundation Tick.

4. The next time you put salad ingredients on to a sandwich, throw them into a measuring cup first. You may find you fall well short of a serve (1 cup of salad), so you’ll be able to bump up your veggie content to make your sandwich count towards your five a day.

5. Teenagers – boys in particular – love to eat straight from the fridge, so leave fresh fruit or fresh veggie sticks cut up on a plate with dips at eye level in the fridge for after-school snacks. Leftovers make good after-work snacks for adults, too.

6. Try serving chilli or spag bol on roasted pumpkin or a baked potato instead of rice or pasta. Serve with green veggies and corn on the cob, sautéed mushrooms or topped with ¼ avocado.

7. A cob of corn makes a great after school/ three o’clock snack and it takes just three minutes in the microwave.

The Heart Foundation has launched Mums United to help Australian families take small, easy steps towards a healthier lifestyle and a healthy weight.

Free family recipes and quick tips for healthier living at www.heartfoundation.org.au/mumsunited

Tips to get a big yawn A GOOD night’s sleep is crucial for overall health and wellbeing with research showing a lack of sleep can produce more hormones that stress our mind and body.

Sleep expert Glen Farebrother says there are some simple steps people can follow to ensure they are well rested: • Keep the bedroom free from distractions and stimulation – make your bed a “sleep only” zone. When you watch TV or read you associate bed with being awake.

• Maintain a regular schedule. Try to go to sleep and ideally wake up at roughly the same time each day. Try to get to sleep before midnight.

• Reduce exposure to bright lights at night – try to avoid using your mobile phone or computer before bed – these stimulate you and disrupt the production of your natural sleep hormone melatonin.

• Enjoy a warm bath before bed – it will help to lower your body temperature when you’re in bed, which encourages sleep.

• Try to exercise during the day – first thing in the morning is ideal.

• Limit alcohol and caffeine intake and try not to eat too much straight before bed.

• As hard as it seems, take some time out for yourself each day. Do some yoga or meditation later in the evening, read a book, spend time with family.

More information at www.sleepsolutions. com.au

‘Doc Martin’ winners The winners of the “Doc Martin” series five DVDs are: Lucy Aloe; Conny Gard; Cheryl Athol; Rhonda Dahl and Andrew Stickings.

CityNews April 19-25 23

garden

Make the most of fruit trees Cedric Bryant gardening

WINTER is the time to plant fruit trees and, while it may be a couple of months away, now is the time to think about where to plant your tree/s.

It is not a good idea to think about this when the fruit trees arrive in June/July.

It is essential to have a spot in full sun. It is also important to consider the amount of space required with our ever-shrinking gardens.

As an example, Malus “Granny Smith” apples can grow up to 4m with a similar spread. Whereas the “Ballerina” columnar apples, such as Malus “Maypole” or M. “Bolero’, while growing to 3.5m tall, needs only a space of 0.6m wide, perfect for those with a small garden or who like their trees neat and tidy.

Pick up a Fleming’s Nurseries “Top 10 Tree Guide” from your local garden centre. This title is slightly misleading as the booklet includes an extensive list of fruit and ornamental trees, showing their height and spread. Remember “the right tree for the right place”, irrespective wherever it is a fruit or ornamental tree.

I HAVE had several inquiries regarding gardening advice in the media on fruit trees when they talk about the “chill factor”. Usually telling us certain fruit trees require this term, almost sounding like some horror movie, but not explaining why. Spring flowering bulbs, which we are all busy planting at present, such as daffodils and hyacinths, require a good cold winter in order to Start planning where to plant fruit trees now. flower successfully in spring.

Apples, pears, cherries, plums and even some berry plants such as blackcurrants all need this “chill factor” for flower and fruit production.

• Plants sitting in containers too long, plant The process starts in late summer and autumn out now when growth inhibitors accumulate in flower and • Plant all the ‘B’s’ now, broad beans, broccoli leaf buds as they form. These prevent the buds and brussels sprouts opening during winter and the “chill factor” is • Check the colours of autumn leaves at your required to break down these growth inhibitors. garden centre before they fall This ensures the buds open at the optimum time • Wear gloves when handling hyacinths as they in spring. Each cultivar needs a specific number can cause skin irritation of ‘chill hours’ below a certain temperature, for • Sow onion seeds now for transplanting out in most fruit trees at least a minimum of about late May/June 7c or lower. Here we are more fortunate than in other parts of Australia in that we usually do not have a problem with enough cold and most folk complain of too much cold. However, with “GARDENERS who buy everything from the climate change and milder winters this can have a standard and often limited nursery range are dramatic effect on fruit production. More on fruit missing out on one of the most satisfying of hutrees as we get closer to planting time. man endeavours, propagating one’s own plants!,”

Autumn in the garden:

Book review

says Angus Stewart in his new book “Let’s Propagate” (Allen and Unwin, rrp $35).

Stewart is well-known as the NSW-based presenter of ABC TV’s “Gardening Australia” and his book is ideal for the home gardener and the professional.

All steps of propagating plants are illustrated with colour photos from seeds to layering or division. In fact, the process is so clearly described and illustrated, even the raw beginner could not go wrong. It is a great companion book to his “Creating an Australian Garden”, which incidentally won awards for best gardening book in 2011.

The wonderful world of bonsai...

MANY of you have seen the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection in Commonwealth Gardens. If you have not visited the display it is a wondrous sight to see how nature can be controlled to keep full-size trees in miniature. The display is open every day from 10am to 3pm.

View their web site for full details at www.bpca.com.au 24 CityNews April 19-25

FINALLY, most keen gardeners have now had a chance to watch the new format of ABC’s “Gardening Australia” TV program with Costa Georgiadis. I would be interested in your opinions of this new format.

Write or email me at “CityNews”, GPO Box 2448, Canberra City 2601.

The cottage-style garden in Bungendore... open on May 5-6.

Pretty glimpse of autumn in a country cottage garden A COTTAGE-STYLE garden shelters privately behind shady deciduous trees and densely planted boundaries of plums, hawthorns and photinias at 27 Modbury Street, Bungendore.

Surrounding an 1880s cottage, this pretty garden has evolved organically since owners Susan and Marc Peters moved there 20 years ago.

It will be open to the public on May 5-6. Its autumn highlights include the rich reds and deep burgundy of the ornamental grape vines and the brilliant yellow, orange and ruby tones of the “forest” at the rear.

The front yard is dominated by a 35-year-old English elm – its wide canopy dropping a glowing cascade of golden leaves along the driveway.

Recycled and found materials, including old bricks, gates, pots, watering cans and fence palings, are used to add interest and function throughout the garden.

Extensive drystone walls, heritage varieties of pears, apples, plums and roses, and a semi-walled kitchen garden with end-of-season produce and plantings of winter vegetables.

Open garden: 27 Modbury Street, Bungendore, 10am-

4.30pm, May 5-6. Admission $6, under 18 free.

OTHER upcoming open gardens include Markdale, Mulgowrie Road, Binda (near Crookwell), which features Edna Walling’s 1947 garden design, maintained in almost original form.

It surrounds the 1921 restored homestead.

Extensively rejuvenated in recent years, the garden’s memorable features include the long wisteria and rose pergola, several sculptures, and a superb lake and bridge on 2.02ha.

The garden is open on April 21-22, 10am-4.30pm.

ENJOYING spectacular views, Felix is a beautiful garden in the Tinderry Mountains at 1386 Urila Road, Burra.

The garden, with a large orchard, is a testament to successful biodynamic practices with mint, oregano and thyme joining colourful lavenders, irises, hot pokers, liliums and roses in tones of pink, red, orange, yellow and white.

The garden is open April 28-29, 10am-4.30pm.

Refreshments are available for purchase.

Keeping flames off the verandah BUSHFIRES have been few and far between this year, but increased foliage growth caused by a wet summer could provide extra fuel for the 2012 season, according to Dominic Adshead, GHD senior consultant – bushfire management.

“In 2012, fires in the eastern States are most likely to be fast-moving grass fires, as the heavy grass cover that has grown following a wetter period dries off,” he says.

For homes in bushfire-prone areas, there are several design and landscaping rules that can minimise risk to property during a bushfire.

“There are steps you can take to protect your verandah before and during the fire season to reduce the impacts of direct flames, as well as wind-driven embers that may be carried significant distances,” says Dominic.

“Landscaping around decks and verandahs, for example, plays a significant role.

“Shrubs planted adjacent to a house or structure in a fire act as ‘ladder fuels’, allowing a ground fire (burning in grass or woodchips) to travel up into the shrub and then into the wall or roof of the house or structure. These plants should be trimmed back or removed, particularly those next to an opening such as a window.”

Top tips: • Keep the verandah well-maintained by sealing

The wooden deck... Landscaping can play a significant role in protecting decks and verandahs in a bushfire. timber with a non-combustible seal.

• Fill in small gaps around the deck where an ember might be able to lodge – larger openings can be fitted with ember guards (such as perforated mesh with 2mm openings).

• Check that decking is spaced at around 0-5mm; gaps of 5-10mm have been shown to be particularly vulnerable to ember attack.

• Remove leaves and twigs from the roof and gutters.

• Enclose the subfloor of the verandah using mesh or bushfire resisting timbers such as blackbutt or spotted gum.

• Don’t place flammable shrubs and woodchips next to the deck – decorative stones and more fireresistant plant species could be substituted.

CityNews April 19-25 25

home

Where old turns funky Libby Hill reports

ONE person’s trash is another person’s treasure.

That’s the philosophy of Old School Industries, a new business that creates one-of-a-kind homewares and furniture by up-cycling.

Defined by the creators as “the future of retro”, old furniture is restored and transformed into a funky array of colours, patterns, designs and structures.

Old School Industries, whose workshop is located on a farm in Goulburn, creates bespoke modern furniture including bedside tables, coffee tables and TV cabinets, often modernising long-desired Scandinavian designs.

With a passion for vintage furniture and a skill in Bedside tables with Tretchikoff Lady Graphics, fine joinery and furniture design, partners Sascha RRP $550 each.

Laurenson and Brett Webb started Old School Industries as a hobby, and it quickly became a profitable business.

Together, they spend time scouring flea markets, garage sales and charity stores sourcing unwanted pieces.

“When we find a gem, we can’t wait to get our hands on it. By combining our skills we have created many unique pieces,” says Laurenson.

“Each article of furniture we revive is one less item that ends up in landfill and one more beautiful art piece for the home.”

Conscious of a greener future, the company employs green business practices including the reuse and recycling of as many materials as possible and sourcing of other materials from within its local community. Prices start from $455 (coffee table) and $550 (bedside table) to $1250 (desk).

Information at oldschoolindustries.com.au Laughing Budai sideboard, RRP $2250.

26 CityNews April 19-25

puzzles page Joanne Madeline Moore your week in the stars / April 23 -29

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

This week will work best if you do something completely out of character for an Aries – think before you act and speak. Otherwise (with Mercury and Uranus hooking up in your sign,) your impulsive nature could land you in heaps of hot water. But it is a wonderful week to take care of business as the Sun, Mars and Pluto activate your career and money zones.

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)

With the Sun, Moon and Jupiter all in your sign, you’ve got a triple dose of Taurean tenacity. Plus the Sun/Mars trine encourages you to break out of your usual routine and be a bold and brave Bull. Be inspired by birthday great Shirley MacLaine: “Don’t be afraid to go out on a limb. It’s where all the fruit is.” Keep your jealous/possessive side in check on Friday.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Gregarious Geminis love nothing better than a good old chin-wag, but garrulous gossip and indiscreet chatter could get you into gigantic trouble this week, so choose your words wisely. If you find yourself letting precious secrets out of the bag, just zip your lip completely! Friends and finances are a messy mix on the weekend, so try to keep the two separate.

General knowledge crossword No. 356 Across Down 3 Name the Australian swimming gold medallist (1924) - “Boy” ...

7 Which NZ political party was formed in 1910?

8 Which cooling container preceded the refrigerator (3,5)?

9 What is another term for an assumed name?

10 Which word implies that which is the outer part of something?

11 Name the notorious Australian bushranger, known as “Mad Dog”.

14 Which attendants guide us to our seats at theatres?

17 Which sort of horse-race is the Melbourne Cup? 18 What is another term for a writing pad?

19 What do we call one who heedlessly reveals confidential matters?

20 The Roman symbol LXXX stands for which number?

21 Name an elected local government representative.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

Avoid being a clingy Crab. This week it’s time to be independent and make decisions on your own – especially at work. If you communicate your ideas in innovative ways, then lucky breaks will follow. On the weekend, love won’t flourish unless you face responsibilities. If you do, then you’ll find a gem shining on your path and your relationships will sparkle.

Solution next week 1

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VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)

Don’t be too set about how the week should proceed. Some unpredictable Uranus spontaneity is just what the doctor ordered. It will stop you from being too careful – and critical! Avoid making mountains out of molehills on Thursday. The more relaxed you are, the better the day will be. With the Sun and Jupiter in your travel zone, plan a trip for sometime soon.

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SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)

Are you stuck in a Scorpio rut? With unpredictable Uranus stirring up your horoscope, changes to your daily routine will put you in touch with new people and places. Your motto for the week is from Jerry Seinfeld (born on April 29): “If life boils down to one thing, its movement. To live is to keep moving.” Use your powers of persuasion in positive ways.

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LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)

Attached Librans – it’s time for you and your spouse to take the plunge and talk about controversial issues that you’d normally steer clear of.

Singles – look for a partner who is outside your comfort zone (someone who is not your ‘usual’ type). On Friday, lighten the heavy atmosphere with your natural talent for peace-making and smoothing troubled waters.

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LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

It’s the perfect week to set gigantic goals and dream big dreams for the future – and don’t make them too safe and sensible! It’s time for cautious Cats and languid Lions to go for gold as the Sun (your ruler) trines Mars and Pluto, giving you a sensational shot of confidence. Recuperative powers are strong too, as you enjoy activities that rejuvenate mind, body and spirit.

1 What is a small generator of electric current?

2 In which street is the usual residence of the British prime minister?

3 Name the war that took place from 1853 to 1856.

4 Which propelling agents are used for launching space probes?

5 To seek higher stakes in poker, one must “up” what (3,4)?

6 Which plants are armed with stinging hairs?

11 Who is a highly esteemed wise and saintly leader?

12 To have produced bitter resentment, is to have done what?

13 Name another term for an aeroplane pilot.

14 Which word describes a very large immeasurable number?

15 What do we call hard peppermint flavoured sweets, having striped patterns?

16 The discovery of which stone led to the decipherment of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics?

19 20 21

Sudoku medium No.78

Solution next week

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

The Sun and Jupiter are in earthy Taurus, which helps stabilise your restless Sagittarian spirit. So it’s the ideal week to take ambitious ideas and turn them into practical reality. Plus being proactive brings professional success. With Venus visiting your relationship zone, sharing the good times with loved ones puts a spring in your step and a smile on your dial.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Capricorns can be control-freaks… but it’s not your business to organise everything (and everyone) around you. On Friday, relinquish control and let someone else be the boss, otherwise you’ll run out of steam – and friends! This weekend, aim to get the balance right between your personal and professional lives. Too much work will leave loved ones feeling neglected.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

There’s nothing worse than an amped-up Aquarian! You’ll feel super restless this week and your boredom threshold will be at an all-time low.

You’re definitely not in the mood to be told what to do. So make sure you have plenty of challenging projects to channel all that excess energy into, otherwise you’ll drive yourself (and those around you) crazy with your wild ways.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You need to be extra careful with cash this week. You’re feeling impulsive and won’t require much encouragement to shop ‘til you drop. But you need to reset your money mindset. It’s out with spontaneous spending sprees and in with a disciplined approach to finances. Plus side-stepping problems is not a recipe for romantic success. Aim to be more proactive.

Daily astrology updates at www.twitter.com/JoMadelineMoore Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2011

Solutions

Crossword No.355 W I D O W E R S

O O F E R F L O L I R U I D S F C T H E A L K E R S U N D M I Y N O P S I S A U T T H A T C H E R O L O I F O R E N S I C S T E T

Sudoku hard No.77

T M V E O I L M K S P I A N E D E R T O W A G R H R E A D A R N D I G O E B H R O N E

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