150917 citynews

MICHAEL MOORE / PM TURNBULL ENDS THE ERA OF THE ‘PRESIDENTS’ SEPTEMBER 17, 2015

All Rhodes lead to The Lodge

ROBERT MACKLIN Syria brings out the Samaritans

NICK JENSEN

Neighbours, who needs them?

SONYA FLADUN

OPEN 7 DAYS | FREE PARKING

Roll up, roll up Circus Oz goes back to the future

MACQUARIE

ZOO 54074-E

all you need this Family Day!

BAKERY CULTURE

ZAMBREROS

MAKING THE MOVE WITH ANDREW WINTER

Do you want to know more about downsizing, your local property market and preparing your finances for retirement?

Lendlease Retirement Living is proud to present the Making the Move event at Isabella Gardens. This informative session is designed to provide you with the latest information that may help you make the right decision.

Join us at Isabella Gardens on Monday 28th September, 11am – 1pm Along with a panel of local experts which include a downsizing expert, financial advisor and selling property agent, you will also meet Special Guest – Andrew Winter, host of ‘Selling Houses Australia’.

Enjoy a complimentary lunch and take a tour of our resort style facilities, plus find out more about the latest new release with homes starting from $425,000.

RSVP’s are essential; book now to secure your place today. Please call 1800 550 550.

Isabella Gardens, The Clubhouse Azalea Circuit, Isabella Plains ACT Pricing is correct at the time of printing and subject to change.

ACTnavyblue0915

news

briefly

Ghost train steams into the unknown

Remembering caring Helen

By Kate Meikle

ON October 10, the Ghost Train of the Limestone Plains will pull out of Queanbeyan Railway Station and into the unknown…

Those brave enough to step aboard the three-hour tour will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the mysterious legend of the region through a unique and interactive tour.

Author of “Queanbeyan – City of Champions” and creator of the popular Mysterious Queanbeyan by Moonlight Tours, Nichole Overall has been working with staff and volunteers at the Canberra Railway Museum to research and uncover the legend of a ghost train and other spine-chilling stories, but she’s not saying where the train’s going.

“The legend dates back to the 1930s, but the railway line has been in Queanbeyan since 1887,” says Nichole.

“There has been a variety of stories about the ghost train – as well as sightings of mysterious lights and figures.

“There’s been many a tragedy on this line – from the scores of men

index

killed during its construction in the 1880s, to those who have fallen foul of it since.

“Amongst these are the likes of Cornelius Grady, riding his horse home late one evening in 1888 when he was struck by the Cooma Mail Train; his body carried all the way to the Queanbeyan Station.

“Any one of them then could be to blame for the plentiful unexplained events that are said to occur along these very tracks.”

Nichole has teamed up with her sons to create a unique tour and performance, leading passengers through the legend which is part mystery, part history.

“If people enjoy a good mystery and perhaps a chance to peek through the veil of the beyond, then this is the ticket. I’m certain it will be an evening of unexpected surprises because after all, every city has its secrets,” says Nichole.

The Ghost Train will depart Queanbeyan Station, 8pm, on October 10.

Tickets are $98 (over 18s only) and includes supper and beverages. Tickets from qbn@qbncityofchampions.com.au

contacts

Arts & Entertainment Canberra Confidential Cinema Dining Garden Horoscopes Letters News Politics Puzzles Socials

20-23 11 22 23 26 27 8 3-9 5 27 12-15

Well written, well read

Phone 6262 9100 Fax 6262 9111 GPO Box 2448, Canberra 2601

HELEN Dengate was a dedicated nurse and her speciality was stomal therapy, helping thousands of patients in the ACT. She died suddenly in 2012 and now her husband Gary, the Dengate family and Helen Dengate. the Australian Association of Stomal Therapy Nurses (ACT Branch) is offering two annual Helen Dengate Nursing Education Scholarships in her honour, with the first two recipients of the $500 scholarship being awarded by Annette Ellis at an inaugural ceremony at Araluen Village, Fisher, on September 23.

The scholarships, funded by public donation and from family and friends, are intended to support nurses to gain knowledge or skills in stoma management and are open to all nurses or trainees in the ACT or adjoining NSW practising in stoma management areas.

Volunteers wanted

Ghost train tour organiser Nichole Overall... “Every city has its secrets.”

Photo by Andrew Finch

Since 1993: Volume 21, Number 34

CEO: Greg Jones, 0419 418196, greg@citynews.com.au Editor: Ian Meikle, editor@citynews.com.au Journalists: Lorna Morris, lorna@citynews.com.au; Kathryn Vukovljak, kathryn@citynews.com.au Arts editor: Helen Musa, 0400 043764, helen@citynews.com.au Advertising manager: Greg Jones, 0419 418196 Senior advertising account executive: David Cusack, 0435 380656 Advertising account executives: Utpal Kelovkar, 0426 560200; Kathy Leigh, 0400 293991 Sydney advertising sales: Ad Sales Connect, 02 9420 1777 Production manager / graphic design: Janet Ewen Graphic design: Paulette Leo Photographer: Andrew Finch Accounts manager: Bethany Freeman-Chandler

TIL ER D MB E D TE EN SEP T EX OF D EN

29 AUGUST – 20 SEPTEMBER

Norman Lindsay

SALE

Up to 40% OFF: Includes original artworks and facsimile etchings

Cover: Performer April Dawson in Circus Oz’s “But Wait There’s More”. Story Page 20. Photo by Rob Blackburn.

Phone 6230 2055 Federation Square, Gold Creek, Nicholls

Responsibility for election comment is taken by Ian Meikle, Level 1, 143 London Circuit, Canberra.

Over 100 years of client service you can trust.

KL0081.indd 1 WE ARE THE INDEPENDENT

LAND ROVER SPECIALISTS

Diana Farah Litigation Specialist Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Medical Negligence Claims Workers Compensation Claims Super & Total Permanent Disability Claims Civil Liability Claims

1800 059 278

Nishi Building, 2 Phillip Law Street,Canberra Call us for a no obligation case evaluation www.codea.com.au

THE 2015 Volunteering Expo, featuring more than 50 exhibitors, will showcase the diversity of volunteering opportunities available across the Canberra Region at the Canberra Southern Cross Club, Woden, noon-6.30pm, on Wednesday, September 23.

14/09/2015 11:58 am

Roverworks is the Land Rover specialist of choice for repairs, service, parts and maintenance. Our mechanics specialise in Land Rover and Range Rover models, and to servicing of 4x4s, off-road and other car variants.

Take advantage of our fixed price minor servicing.

Diana Farah Partner

Call today: 6241 8777 Check us out on the web at:

FIXEDPRICE MINOR SERVICING ONLY

roverworks.com.au

$395

Email: info@roverworks.com.au

38 Hoskins Street, Mitchell

SOUTHSIDE VALET PICKUP/HIRE CAR AVAILABLE CityNews September 17-23, 2015 3

seven days

All Rhodes seem to lead to The Lodge…

Bill Shorten will be feeling the winds of change whipping around his own party room… the new favourite to take over the Opposition leadership is Tanya Plibersek.

THE sudden move on Tony Abbott from Malcolm Turnbull caught everyone on the hop – not least the former Oxford boxing blue himself.

Malcolm is also a Rhodes Scholar and his ascension means that no fewer than five of our last eight prime ministers have either been born or educated in England, or both.

However, Malcolm brings a very different attitude to our colonial past than his predecessor. And where better could Tony serve his nation henceforth than in London as High Commissioner to the Court of St James. Such an appointment would certainly help to clear the air in the Liberal Party room.

MEANWHILE, across the corridor

Bill Shorten will be feeling the winds of change whipping around his own party room. Word reaching your columnist suggests that the new favourite to take over the Opposition leadership is Tanya Plibersek.

One Labor insider said: “Albo could become the Arthur Calwell to Turnbull’s Menzies.

But Tanya trumps Malcolm every time.”

THE POWER of the symbolic image to change minds – and government policy – was much on display this past week. The heart-rending picture of the little boy, Aylan Kurdi, washed up on a Turkish beach triggered a seachange towards the Great Syrian Exodus.

There was, of course, something wildly illogical about the government backflip from a stern refusal to take Rohingya asylum seekers pleading for refuge from persecution in Burma to its open arms for 12,000 Syrians, to say nothing of the $44 million offered to support their compatriots in border camps. And when you combine

dose of dorin

that with a simultaneous decision to bomb their homeland against the enemies of their presidential dictator, the egregious Bashar al-Assad, the mind simply boggles… and all

ROBERT MACKLIN

because of a little boy in tiny plastic shoes.

ANOTHER case in point was the Liberals’ candidate in the Canning by-election, former SAS officer, Andrew Hastie. The image of our Special Forces operators as “super soldiers” resonates in the public arena.

It matters little, apparently, that Andrew follows his family’s creationist beliefs that

the world began only 6000 years ago.

CLOSER to home, the picture of that “cage” in the south Canberra classroom to provide a refuge for an autistic boy, and perhaps a safety barrier for his classmates, showed why the principal lost her job. The other big loser was Education Minister Joy Burch, who still hasn’t learned that attempting to cover up such incidents only makes things worse.

AND what of that new species of giant trapdoor spider discovered by ANU scientists near Jervis Bay? Chances are we’d never come within cooee of one in a lifetime, but that didn’t prevent a shiver of apprehension at the photo…and it doesn’t help to learn they live for 30 years!

ANOTHER remarkable image was the new species of human discovered in South Africa.

Dubbed Homo naledi, our long lost cousins are thought to have lived some where between one and two million years ago.

Unless, of course, you’re Andrew Hastie.

FINALLY, many thanks to that puckish political pundit Mungo MacCallum for the delicious observation this past week on the name of the head of the operatically-clad Australian Border Force, Roman Quaedvlieg. Observed Mungo: “Its anagram is Avid Glamor Queen”. robert@robertmacklin.com

Problems Challenges At Callida, we never see problems, only challenges.

ZOO 53505

With more than 50 highly experienced consultants from a variety of disciplines, we have the flexibility to assemble a team that can confidently respond to any challenge from any organisation.

Experience the difference with Callida.

4 CityNews September 17-23, 2015

Consulting to Government callida.com.au // 6162 3339 Financial Management Assurance Services IT and Management Consulting

politics

PM Turnbull ends era of the ‘presidents’ Tony Abbott has apologised again and again. He asked for a second chance and then another and then seeking a final request for six months to turn things around. It did not happen.

THE short era of the Australian “presidents” has comes to an end. Hopefully.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s first public statement on winning his party’s confidence was to clarify our system of parliamentary democracy.

Kevin Rudd championed the idea of a presidential-style leader in the “Kevin 07” campaign. He seemed to believe he had been directly elected by the people. He was not. Nor was Tony Abbott.

If Labor is to provide a viable, long-term alternative government it should also learn the dangers campaigning in a presidential style.

It is time to stop all the forms of the “captain’s call”.

Letting go of this leadership style may have been an anathema for Abbott

as it was for Rudd. The new prime minister will have to resist this temptation.

Responses from those opposed to the change of prime minister are effusive with “I voted for Tony Abbott” (as they were “I voted for Kevin Rudd”). With 150 Members of Parliament in the House of Representatives there is a roughly 95 per cent chance that they did not. The people of their specific electorates in Sydney or in Brisbane may even have voted for them as an MP – but not as prime minister.

Turnbull’s promise of a much more consultative cabinet and a more consultative government is admirable. It is needed. However, this must be balanced against decisive government and effective leadership.

There is still a trust issue. Breaking promises was a fundamental weakness of the Abbott government. No cuts to education, no cuts to health; these were the mantra of the opposition. But the trust of swinging voters who took a risk with the Liberal Party has been seriously eroded under Abbott.

When Jeff Kennett launched a scathing attack on Turnbull as being an egotist just hours before the vote, he identified the real problem. He just pointed his finger at the wrong target. A strong self-confidence is important for any successful politician.

However, it is a fine line from becoming arrogant and egotistical.

Bill Shorten and Labor must disappointed having been able to rely heavily on the ultra-conservatism of Abbott and his band of close cronies as well as their constant run of “trip-ups”. With Turnbull, these are less likely. While the policies may not change, to have any chance at the next election, the emphasis certainly will need to do so.

Instead of the election being a lay down misere, there is now a real chance for the Liberal Party. The prime reasons behind the change of leaders of the Federal Liberal Party is that members in marginal seats and even semi-marginal seats could see the writing on the wall. Ministers could see government slipping away.

Since being Prime Minister, Abbott has apologised again and again. He asked for a second chance and then another and then seeking a final request for six months to turn things around. It did not happen. In politics, absolution can only be granted a limited number of times.

More smoke and mirrors?

AYLAN Kurdi’s body on a Turkish beach may well prove to be a similar catalyst to the iconic 1972 photo of the naked, nine-yearold girl, Kim Phúc, fleeing napalm bombing of her village in Vietnam.

It was followed seven months later by the signing of the Paris Peace Accords. The image of Aylan Kurdi and its aftermath has motivated many into action, including the Australian government.

Unfortunately, it coincides with the commencement of Australian bombing raids, which are likely to play their part in creating many more refugees.

It seems really commendable for the government to take an additional 12,000 refugees from Syria. There are around 60 million displaced people in the world.

Australia’s efforts to assist with this humanitarian crisis, though laudable, are like a drop in the ocean.

However, the announcement nearly doubles the intake of refugees in the humanitarian program from almost 14,000 to more than 25,000.

Or is there a game of smoke and mirrors as the government covers the start of bombing raids and hides an appalling humanitarian record in sending other refugees to detention camps (or prisons) in Nauru, New Guinea and Cambodia? Are these places really for additional migrants or will the numbers also be smoke and mirrors?

Loan Approach

A Productivity Commission Report issued in May identified planning for more than 200,000 migrants across a number of programs. It is not clear that the number will be increased by the 12,000 or whether Peter will be robbed to pay Paul?

According to the Australia Institute, claims about our country being one of the top countries per capita for taking refugees are nonsense. In 2014, the country with the most refugees per head of population was Jordan with Australia ranking as 69th.

The country with the largest absolute number of refugees was Pakistan with Iran in second place. On this scale, Australia is 49th.

We are certainly not a generous country.

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

TH E G HAN

Home & Car Loan Specialist

ADELAIDE TO DAR WIN 3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS OR V.V

0433 398 097

1989

$

enquiry@loanapproach.com.au CRN:439457 • 29 Morrow St, Dunlop ACT

DC0109.indd 1

That photo… Kim Phúc runs down a road naked near Trang Bang after a South Vietnamese napalm attack on June 8, 1972. Photo by Nick Ut.

• 2 nights on The Ghan in a Gold Service Twin Cabin • Outback Stop in Marla or Manguri (depending on direction) • Half day Off Train Excursion in Alice Springs • Half day Off Train Excursion in Katherine • All meals and beverages

17/08/2015 11:55 am

2016/17

ADVANCE PURCHASE SALE NOW ON. BOOK EARLY AND SAVE.

I N DIAN PACI FIC SYDNEY TO PERTH 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS

2049

$

20 SEPTEMBER 10AM-4PM

JAMISON TRAVEL ZOO 54407

WENTWORTH AVE KINGSTON 6295 3331 · OBDM.COM.AU

PER PERSON GOLD SERVICE, ADULT TWIN SHARE

• 3 nights on the Indian Pacific in a Gold Service Twin Cabin • Half day Off Train Excursion in Broken Hill • Full day Off Train Excursion in Barossa Valley or Adelaide • Outback Stop in Rawlinna • All meals and beverages

GREEN SAVVY SUNDAY

A market event full of green alternatives for everyday life.

Go to website for all details & activities.

PER PERSON GOLD SERVICE, ADULT TWIN SHARE

Shop 5, 39 Bowman Street, Macquarie, ACT, 2615 Ph: 02 6251 5166 Web: www.jamisontravel.com.au Terms and conditions: *Save up to $570pp based on the Advance Purchase Adult Fare on the Indian Pacific, Sydney to Perth. Fares based on Gold Service per person twin share, with single pricing available. For new bookings from 17 August 2015 for travel from 1 April 2016 until 31 March 2017. Advance Purchase fares are available on Gold Service and are subject to availability at time of booking and may not be available on the date first requested. In order to receive the Advance Purchase fare, bookings must be made a minimum of 6 months in advance.

Full payment required within 14 days of booking. Non-transferable. Non-refundable; 100% cancellation fee applies. Credit card fees may apply. Not available with any other offer except accompanied Motorail 50% discount for Gold Service guests. Timetables and Off Train Excursions are subject to change without notice. For general terms and conditions of carriage please visit www.greatsouthernrail.com.au Travel Agent License No. TTA16419.

04632CDGM 0815

CityNews September 17-23, 2015 5

mum in the city Adults: Evening and day classes for 2 hours or 4 hours a week & Saturday express classes Conversation, pronunciation, grammar workshops!

French for travellers!

Young learners (3 to 17yrs old) @ all levels: afternoon classes between 4 and 6pm

Term 4 12 Oct 19 Dec Christma s fa & Open d ir ay 14 Novem ber

How to

enrol?

irectly enrol d You can ebsite, over W on our t the ne or a the pho desk. t fron

02 6257 6696 enquiries@afcanberra.com.au www.afcanberra.com.au

DC0219.indd 1

Neighbours, who needs them?

DO you know your neighbours?

If you are anything like me, you might know them well enough to wave from a distance, but often little more than that.

This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Over the years, at various addresses, I’ve had all sorts of neighbours. Some became friends that, years after moving, you still send Christmas cards.

We’ve had neighbours who kept a watchful eye on the house when we were on holiday or who would water the garden and collect the mail.

However, some have been just that bit too friendly and others argumentative, sending menacing notes about leaves falling over their side of the fence or else complaining repeatedly when our dog barked (it was a tiny Pomeranian whose yap once or twice a day was barely audible).

Some neighbours kept to themselves, but received fairly regular visits from the constabulary.

Another neighbour once took aim at our house with a high-powered slingshot, eventually breaking a back window. His motives weren’t clear. We thought he was just plain crazy.

When I was a kid, we knew most of the people in our street, some more closely than others, but there was a sense of community that doesn’t seem

“When I was a kid, we knew most of the people in our street... there was a sense of community that doesn’t seem to be in our suburbs now. to be in our suburbs now.

People appear more and more contained in their own little cocoons.

Children, those great icebreakers of the past, now often stick to their own backyards or to the comfort of their couch and computer games. People don’t seem to spend as much time on weekends gardening and exchanging fertiliser tips over the fence.

Instead of talking to their neighbours, many folk are more likely to be picking fights on Twitter and Facebook with people they don’t know.

But good neighbours are worth their weight in gold. Over the years, wonderful neighbours have helped us move, minded the children in an emergency, caught the dog when he got out of our backyard, played Easter Bunny and deposited chocolate at the door, knitted scarves when the kids took up ice skating and been happy to have a bit of a chat when the sun is shining and the pace of life allows.

For older people it is important to keep

an eye out.

My mum had an arrangement with a neighbour to look for her kitchen blinds being up every morning to know she was up.

Perhaps it would be a good thing to slow down and say hello to the folk next door.

They may or may not reciprocate, but you might just spark up a lasting friendship or at least an acquaintance that will make life just that bit better.

briefly

Do your numbers need balancing?

14/09/2015 3:06 pm

Flowers and art AINSLIE’S All Saints is welcoming spring with an indoor Floral Display and Art Show at the Cowper Street church over the long weekend of September 26-28. The work of local artists will be displayed for sale and the heritage-listed, stone church will be adorned with flower arrangements by the Canberra Flower Club, the Floral Art Guild ACT and the Horticultural Society ACT, with support from Poetry in Flowers, of Gungahlin. There will be flower arranging demonstrations, guided tours and musical interludes.

An experienced accounting technician – managing your bookkeeping needs Call Linda today on

0407 006 930

No Gap Dental Check-ups*

Bizzibooks BOOKKEEPING www.bizzibooks.com

for patients with available health fund rebates

ACT DIVISION LUNCH

PROPERTY INVESTMENT FROM CHINA

All funds are eligible including:

Queanbeyan // 6284 4700 Opening Soon Belconnen // Manuka // Tuggeranong // Woden All centres open 7 days

visit pacificsmilesdental.com.au *Terms & Conditions: Offer only available to patients who have private health insurance and available health fund rebates for dental cover with any Australian health fund. Offer covers; examination (011, 012), scale and clean (114) or removal of plaque (111), fluoride (121), x-rays (022 x 2) and OPG (037), unless one or more of these items are deemed unsuitable for the patient, in the clinical opinion of the Practitioner. Where eligible, benefits for services provided will be deducted from the patient’s available health fund limits. If patient does not have available health fund rebates, please contact the dental centre for pricing. Health fund limits and rules apply – for more information talk to your health fund. Offer only available at Pacific Smiles Dental, Belconnen, Manuka, Queanbeyan, Tuggeranong and Woden. Services will only be provided where clinically necessary and appropriate. Offer subject to appointment availability with participating Practitioners. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or Government scheme and are not substitutable or redeemable for cash. Dental services are provided at Pacific Smiles Dental Centres by independent Practitioners. Pacific Smiles Dental is owned and operated by Pacific Smiles Group Limited abn 42 103 087 449.

6 CityNews September 17-23, 2015

DOES CANBERRA HAVE A CHAFTA CHANCE? Time: Registration from 11:45 am 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm Venue: Peninsula Room, National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton Member: $99 • Non Member: $150 Member Table (10): $900 • Non Member Table (10): $1400 Prices include GST

To register, call Rebecca Scott on 6248 6902 or visit www.propertyoz.com.au/act

by Monday, 26 October.

Proudly Sponsored by

opinion / refugees

briefly

Syria brings out the Good Samaritans I hesitate to even utter the words as they seem so fragile, but are we really in the throes of becoming a lessadversarial, more compassionate, just, and moral nation?

DESPITE a culture that is increasingly unaware of Biblical narratives, the story of the Good Samaritan is one that is still widely regarded and integrated into Australia’s foundations.

In the Gospel of Luke (10:30-37), Jesus tells a story of a man robbed and beaten and left for dead by the side of the road. He was ignored by several passers-by until a Samaritan man saw him, tended his wounds, carefully transported him to safety and then provided finance until he recovered.

The challenge of this story is not in understanding the principle, that is quite straightforward. The challenge is how to translate it into current situations. One man in our street needing help is one thing, but the situation we face is hundreds of thousands of people left robbed and beaten on the other side of the world. In trying to translate the principle

we face many more questions than the original Samaritan needed to ask.

Which ones do we help first? How many can we take economically considering we are looking at providing permanent homes?

What do we do about the robbers who are continuing to beat and steal? What can we do to support those left in the ditch?

I have a deep admiration for our leaders, those on both sides of politics and in the public services, who have been given the task of figuring out how this fundamental principle of loving our neighbour applies in these extremely complex situations. The challenges of identifying the most vulnerable, safest transport, ordered processing, global response, and community integration are all very genuine and difficult.

For the first time in many years, as a nation, we seem to be on the same page on the issue.

We may disagree about numbers, authenticity, and priority, but ultimately what we are seeing is a widespread commitment to the desperate needs of others, despite a personal cost. It is not just looking to the government either, but even broader civil society that is offering support.

Models, ahoy!

CANBERRA Model Shipwrights Society is hosting its annual exhibition of more than 100 model ships at Mount Rogers Primary School, Alfred Hill Drive, Melba, 10am-5pm, on Saturday, September 19, and 10am-3.30pm on Sunday, September 20. There will be exhibits by Taskforce 72 (naval ships), ACT Scale Modellers Society and ACT Model Boat Club.

Gardens galore I hesitate to even utter the words as they seem so fragile, but are we really in the throes of becoming a less-adversarial, more compassionate, just, and moral nation?

The proof of the pudding is in the eating, and we will have to see how this all plays out to test the proposition. It is easy to say you would offer accommodation, much more difficult to have a Syrian family camping in your lounge room for a year. It is easy to throw stones at leaders and claim you would do a better job, much harder to trust them to be wise with the power you have

NICK JENSEN

given them. It is easy click “like” on Facebook, much more painful to click that bank transfer button when it means you will go without.

The reason Jesus told the parable of the Good Samaritan wasn’t simply because this is a nice thing to do. His final exhortation is that this example of mercy is one we should emulate because this is how we ultimately receive life. By looking into the face of those you help you begin to see who God really is.

Nick Jensen is the director of the Lachlan Macquarie Institute, which helps develop leaders in public policy (lmi.org.au)

THE fifth annual “Down the Garden Path” fundraising day for Ainslie School’s productive food garden and school grounds improvement projects will be held at Corroboree Park Heritage Precinct, Ainslie, 11am-3pm, Sunday, September 20. Pre-purchase tickets ($10, children free) from Ainslie School, Donaldson Street, Braddon or from the ticket stall on the day. More information at downthegardenpath.info

What’s in a name?

IN the social coverage of the Law Society’s annual dinner (CN, September 3) we misspelt vice-president Chris Donohue’s name.

Shopping online?

Click and collect your parcel at a Post Office • Send your parcel to a participating Post Office or 24/7 Parcel Locker* near home or work • Receive email and SMS notifications when your parcel arrives • It’s a better way to shop online

Set up your free account today at auspost.com.au/mypost

*Terms and conditions apply to the Parcel Locker and Parcel Collect (Post Office) services. Collection time limits and parcel restrictions apply.

For more information and full terms and conditions visit auspost.com.au/mypost.

CityNews September 17-23, 2015 7

lowbrow

letters

As the bodies pile up in the morgue

Stuff light rail!

IN the space of 24 hours last week three women and a child died in unrelated domestic violence incidents.

The front page of Fairfax’s Brisbane Times website was filled with unassociated stories of horrible, often fatal, violence with only the news of Apple’s latest gizmo launch sneaking in to leaven the mix.

Domestic violence is becoming a leading cause of death in this country, but for some reason we do very little about it.

Earlier this year Annabel Crabb noted: “If a man got killed by a shark every week we’d probably arrange to have the ocean drained”.

You will no doubt be thrilled to know the ACT government has a plan.

If you were to look at the five key priorities of the ACT Prevention of Violence against Women Strategy you might be less thrilled: • d riving a whole of community and government action plan to prevent violence and create and anti-violence culture; • u nderstanding diverse experiences of violence; • supporting innovative services and joined up service systems; • i mproving perpetrator interventions so that men are held accountable and supported to change their

Domestic violence is becoming a leading cause of death in this country, but for some reason we do very little about it. behaviour; and •c ontinuing to build the evidence base.

All nice things to do, or in some cases just aspire to (a bit like “Vision Zero” for road fatalities or “No Waste 2010” for garbage collection) but as the bodies pile up in the morgue there’s a hideous shortage of useful action there.

It looks to my eye a lot like tokenistic box ticking. A “say you’ve done something and adjourn for tea and biscuits” kind of lethargy to the whole business.

It doesn’t help that domestic violence is diabolically complex.

Victims will actively resist getting help. Even once they’re out of a relationship they will often drift back, in no small part because their self-esteem and social networks have been systematically demolished over years by their co-dependent abusers.

Why do they put up with it? In an excellent examination of the subject titled “5 Myths About Domestic Abuse Everyone Believes” the Cracked website (don’t knock it until you’ve read the article) made a striking observation: “It’s easy to say you’ll swim for shore when you’re not in the middle of the ocean.”

We can, however, rather than whimsically hoping for “antiviolence culture”, throw some life rafts into the ocean, we might even bestir ourselves to send a rescue helicopter every now and then, too.

I’m talking about a serious investment in emergency accommodation.

Not years-long waiting lists for housing, not token little developments that instantly fill up, not shelters that are good for a few nights (and then head back to the abuser and hope they’ve calmed

down and sobered up).

It doesn’t have to be flash but it does need to have a lock on the door and room for kids and pets.

And we need a lot of it. So much of it that there’s supply sitting free and waiting for when it’s needed at an hour’s notice.

It will cost a bit, more than tea and biscuits and some leaflets.

But there will be some savings.

Police attendance, courts, emergency rooms and coroner’s inquests do not come cheap to our society either.

Or some might think it’s just the right thing to do.

John Griffiths is the online editor of citynews.com.au

I WATCHED an item about the construction of a new building at the University of Technology Sydney on ABC TV tonight. The architect is living legend, Frank Gehry.

If only we had a town council with the foresight to engage such a visionary as Gehry to design a convention centre that would make Canberra.

Putting it bluntly, stuff the light rail and more of the boring, boring buildings down Northbourne Avenue. We need a convention centre to bring business to Canberra, possibly more than any other building, to make this city the convention capital of Australia.

It could happen if only our illustrious leaders had the vision and Frank Gehry to design it.

Cedric Bryant, Watson

What about a flyover?

FOR years residents have complained about the traffic on Barton Highway and need for a flyover, yet TAMS keeps ignoring the issue.

Traffic lights will worsen traffic and the Canberra Liberals have correctly and wisely pledged to build a flyover, but Chief Minister Andrew Barr and company have no feelings or understanding of people’s daily commuting issues.

TAMS’ piecemeal and half-baked approach will waste money and not solve anything. Gundaroo Drive duplication should be through to Belconnen (end to end), but TAMS is just not bothered.

The biggest joke is Palmerston as there are no exits to get out and no roads built (example Nudurr Drive, which leads to nowhere).

Paul Mcalister, via email

Does your business want to save money and be environmentally responsible?

Actsmart offers a FREE, 10‑step program for ACT and Queanbeyan businesses. Green accreditation is easy and helps you:

• • • •

reduce costs recycle waste help the environment enjoy great PR

More than 700 businesses have already signed up to Actsmart Business Recycling.

8 CityNews September 17-23, 2015

ZOO 54190

For information visit actsmartbusiness@act.gov.au or call Access Canberra on 13 22 81

dose of dorin

opinion

The wobbly Joy of being a minister SO many listeners to my radio program have called for the sacking of Education Minister Joy Burch over the boy-in-the-cage saga. I think they’re a little hasty.

I don’t think Joy makes a good government minister, but I believe she’s doing her absolute best and she’s probably the government’s best option. There are only 17 members in this current assembly and eight of them are in opposition. With all respect to Joy Burch and others, the talent pool is wafer thin.

I played AFL for the North Coffs Kangaroos. I was their number one ruckman, which was laughable because I sucked, big time.

But I was the only genuine “tall” they had. I rucked for them because they had no other option.

I had no idea how to play in the position when I started, but I Joy Burch. kinda grew into it.

And that’s the way it works for most government ministers in a small jurisdiction like this one. They are placed in ministerial positions that are way above their ability and most of them grow into the role.

When you win a seat in the Legislative Assembly you’ve actually just won a popularity contest. It’s one step up from “The Voice” or “Survivor”.

Those who become MLAs are obviously well qualified to attend party meetings, knock on strangers’ doors and campaign at shopping centres, but for many that’s where it ends.

Being a backbencher in our little tinpot

OVER 40 STALLS

Being a government minister requires the same skillset as the CEO of a major corporation and those skills don’t grow on trees. parliament is about towing the party line, dealing with constituents and parliamentary process. When you’re given a ministry, it’s a whole different ball game. Being a government minister requires the same skillset as the CEO of a major corporation and those skills don’t grow on trees.

Chief Minister Andrew Barr has admitted to me that when he entered the ministry he wasn’t fully across his brief. He just had to bluff his way through until he worked out what he was doing.

Andrew has very loudly supported Minister Burch because he knows she’s his best option, but I’m telling you now, I betcha he’s hangin’ for a 25-seat Assembly if for no other reason than the expanded talent pool.

For Joy, it doesn’t help that at that press conference she looked like a rabbit in a big spotlight. And whose bright idea was it to have her never utter the word “cage”?

For the minister it started off as a “cage-like structure” and eventually became an “inappropriate structure”.

For God’s sake, Joy, it’s a cage!

JOIN US IN TOWN SQUARE ON THURSDAY 24 SEPTEMBER FOR THE BRINDABELLA MARKETS IN THE PARK, WITH EVERYTHING LOCALLY HANDMADE OR GROWN. FOR MORE INFO VISIT WWW.AIRPORTBUSINESSPARKS.COM.AU/EVENTS

Mark Parton is the breakfast host on 2CC.

WWW.AIRPORTBUSINESSPARKS.COM.AU CityNews September 17-23, 2015 9

Positive Real Estate

advertising feature

‘My role is to guide, nurture, educate and free people financially.’

Naomi’s passion helps dreams come true NAOMI Beaumont’s passion for finance and property comes from helping people to achieve their dreams.

With a strong following of loyal clients, Naomi is Canberra’s head property coach, as well as a national finance strategist at Positive Real Estate, a real estate investment agency that helps Australians and New Zealanders build security and wealth through real estate investments.

Ensuring her clients’ finance structure minimises risk, Naomi also helps them to build a portfolio, ultimately helping them to achieve the lifestyle they’ve always wanted.

She says: “At Positive Real Estate we specialise in property investment and we are one of the best at it.

“I love finance and what it creates for people.

It can be up and down because you’re dealing with people’s lives, they feel fear and worry about the future. I ask them what they want and in what time frame, we then come up with a strategy that fits.

“Everyone is different and no strategy is the same, some people want to buy the house of their dreams, travel the world or retire comfortably. We build the foundations to get them where they want to be.”

With more than 150 clients in Canberra, Naomi has worked with Positive Real Estate for the past 10 years and uses her extensive knowledge to help them to achieve long-term financial goals.

“It’s not get-rich-quick,” says Naomi.

“I work closely with my clients and care about them very much. My clients usually have a timeframe of five to seven years, so, as a strategist I look at the bigger picture.

“It’s all about understanding how to move forward by looking at what that means to the client and what they are willing to do to get there.”

Investing in property at the age of 23, Naomi has since created multi-million dollar portfolios for her clients using the successful strategies taught in Positive Real Estate’s “Lifetime Mentoring Program” and also works as a national trainer for other investment coaches.

“My role is to guide, nurture, educate and free people financially,” she says. “Finance is something that people don’t know much about or have relied on others to do for them.

“We have built an amazing team of staff at Positive Real Estate who work together to protect the client’s assets and to stop them from making wrong decisions in the future.”

Dealing with a variety of financial issues, Naomi is keen to express the importance of seeking professional guidance when it comes to investing in property.

“There are many different problems we deal with, people buying in the wrong market or a market that is not going to move in the next five years,” says Naomi.

“The money gets stuck when it should be flowing.

“We help people who have no proper loan or tax set-up and who have not been doing good

due diligence.

“Life is continually changing and so are the financial strategies we create. Unexpected circumstance occur, such as divorce, illness and death. When that happens, I work with my clients to move forward, to regroup and go again.

“This industry can be cold and masculine, what I bring is a warmth and softness.”

Positive Real Estate ACT, call 0401 054905 or visit positiverealestate.com.au Contact Naomi Beaumont on 0404 801222 or email naomi.beaumont@positiverealestate.com.au

Property investor night POSITIVE Real Estate will be holding a Canberra Property Investor Night on Monday, September 21 at the Quality Hotel in Dickson.

Starting at 6.15pm, the free event is a chance for Canberrans to seek professional advice on a variety of financial matters.

Guests are welcome to show up on the night without registering but there is also an option to register online before the event.

Naomi says: “This life-changing event will teach you the principles of freeing yourself financially through property so you can live the life that you want.

“You’ll learn how you can pay your home off, increase your cash flow, and retire sooner with more money in the bank.”

Positive Real Estate’s head Canberra property coach Naomi Beaumont… “This industry can be cold and masculine, what I bring is a warmth and softness.”

Canberra

Monday, 21st September Quality Hotel, Dickson

How would you like a 2 hour interactive session with with Naomi Beaumont?

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE EVENT: Guidance and direction into the best strategies today Know how to identify the best properties in any market Confidence in the next steps to take Have your questions answered

If you do one thing for yourself this month, make sure this is it!

REGISTER TODAY:

OR CALL

www.positiverealestate.com.au/citynews

1300 365 886

Positive Real Estate Pty Ltd Corporate Licence 1217226. Our advice is of a general nature only. Obtain advice from licensed professionals to determine if similar results may be achieved by you. We do not guarantee future results

10 CityNews September 17-23, 2015

Canberra Confidential David strikes a discordant note MILD-mannered and much-celebrated Canberra cellist David Pereira is grumpy: “Music may be alive in Canberra, but it is not flourishing.”

In calling for a “proud Musical Capital”, the former “CityNews” Artist of the Year says: “There is not much to be proud of.

“Despite the good and great musical endeavours of so many of us – players, teachers, students, administrators, commentators, governments, entrepreneurs, etcetera – we are not particularly successful.”

He grumbles that low importance is attached to our youth’s strong achievement in music; the role and fair pay for musical professionals; the cultivation of local nationally competitive musical assets and live music’s natural purpose, “to make a culture more compassionate, David Pereira. conscious, holistic, graceful, vigorous, enthusiastic and productive”.

He says there is again media attention to the ANU’s “endlessly (mildly, sadly, laughably) embarrassing music school offering”.

“While its political intrigues occasionally serve to distract me from a less-than-ideal cup of coffee, they don’t conceal the school’s peculiar failure adequately to address my four points,” he harrumphs.

Know something? / confidential@citynews.com.au

Labor bus-ter DONATION-busting Liberal Alistair Coe had a super week exposing the aspiring Capital Metro builder bidder’s cash donations to the Labor Party’s trough. However, before that, he made the party’s most lucid argument against the tram set (beyond we can’t afford a billion coconuts to lay it) by exposing the government’s latest decision to introduce additional direct bus services from Gungahlin suburbs to the city as evidence that passengers want a single journey from their house to their destination (and who doesn’t, with our winters?).

The argument against the tram looks like this: Amaroo to Barton, 259 service: current, (1) bus to Barton; with light rail, (1) bus to Gungahlin, (2) tram to city, (3) bus to Barton.

Left right, left right…

Andrew favours Frank OUR digitally dextrous Chief Minister Andrew Barr, for a pollie oddly indifferent to the charm of AM talkback radio, tweeted that he was “In the studio with my favourite #CBR breakfast host” and to make the point took a snap of “Uncle” Frank Vincent on hits-and-memories 2CA. To ensure the influential and competitive AM talkback announcers Mark Parton (2CC) and Phil Clark (ABC 666) got the message, he tagged them into his tweet. And the point of taunting them is?

Something about Mary LABOR MLA and three-election Ginninderra veteran Mary Porter has given the strongest indication that she might not stand at next year’s ACT poll. Principal guest on the “CityNews Sunday Roast”, she said she’d be 74 at the next election, her back was causing her pain and she was giving another four years a lot of consideration before the preselection rounds start next month. If Porter joins Simon Corbell in Labor’s retirement ranks, it sends Chief Minister Andrew Barr to the 2016 poll with an increasingly green team.

QUEANBEYAN Mayor Tim Overall’s invitation to join the Canberra Business Chamber’s board has given CC the excuse to publish this picture of him as a crew-cut, apple-cheeked ANU graduate in 1969.

His heart may be over the border these days, but teenage Tim was conscripted to the army during the Vietnam War. He was allowed to finish his degree, but there wasn’t any time for post-swot partying.

“After the final-year exams, I was notified to attend the bus stop, which was just near the university,” he told the “ANU Reporter”.

“There was a whole busload of us being farewelled by mothers, fathers and sisters. We all got on the bus and headed off to Wagga Wagga.”

Officer material, he trained infantry platoons Tim Overall. that served in Vietnam.

Tunks tells all IRREPRESSIBLE creative director of Canberra’s terribly chic Bison homewares Brian Tunks is filling his Pialligo showroom with a continuously evolving display of spring flowers and throwing open its Beltana Road doors to a four-Saturday series of public presentations to celebrate his most recent collection of ceramic and glass design, Botanica.

“It will also highlight some of our friends in the local design community who make this city deserving of the title ‘Capital of Cool’,” he says.

The former ancient historian is taking the first Saturday (3pm-3.45pm, September 19) to discuss the Brian Tunks. relationship between classical pottery methods and the evolution of the collection.

Then, over successive weeks, restaurateur Gus Armstrong will share a recipe or two; floralista Lou Moxom will create simple, elegant arrangements and discuss the rules of proportion and a NewActon mixologist will explain how to perfect the ideal tipple. The events are open to the public.

RECENTLY SEPARATED? NOT SURE WHAT TO DO NEXT?

LET US KEEP YOU FOCUSED! A Level 1 , 11 London Circuit

s d e Ne e h of t en r d l i ch

Canberra City ACT 2601

E P F W

reception@mfamilylawyers.com.au 02 6230 0199 02 6230 5788 mfamilylawyers.com.au CityNews September 17-23, 2015 11

scene / around canberra

invite us / scene@citynews.com.au

Social event of the week / Latin American Flavours Festival launch IT was the kind of party you didn’t want to end and as the food, the drinks and the entertainment went on and on, the thought of staying the night became an option.

A rather nice one, too.

An honorary Latin American for the night, we were celebrating the launch of the Latin American Flavours Festival in the Hyatt’s subterranean Centenary Ballroom, which was akin to a Buenos Aires nightclub I remember.

With 13 embassies contributing to the festival, they were determined to make it a typical Latin Americanstyle evening and succeeded admirably, especially as the guests wandered the room, watched the plate-up performed as part of the “theatre” created for the event, mixed and mingled and tried everything. The Mexican Hibiscus-Lemon Margarita was divine.

Exceptional assistance came from the executive chef Nitin Kumar to test all recipes and balance the flavours of each country with his culinary team.

Jacqueline Pinto de Caruaco and Mylene Mosella

Michelle Bennett and executive chef Nitin Kumar

Argentinian ambassador Pedro Villagra Delgardo, Georgie Skipper, Chris Cannan and Paola Lasso Corredor

Evelia Huicochea and husband Col. Crisoforo Martinez

Fredrick Arul, Shireen Sulaiman and Daniel Gasparri-Rey

Kim Prior, Tony Melhem and Lou Petropoulos

Elias Lopez and Rocio Escobar

The Latin American Flavours Festival runs until September 22 in the Promenade Café at the Hyatt.

Daniela Segovia, Alexandra Sanchez, Venezuelan ambassador Nelson Davila and his wife Maria Teresa, Marcela Fiorillo and Jorge Bagnani

Paty and Tim Johnston with the Colombian ambassador Clemencia Forero-Ucros

Pia Waldren and Tina Rose

The Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in Australia cordially invites you to experience a traditional

SUNDAY ROAST Stay in touch with the names making news on Sundays from 10am as 2CC and “CityNews” present Canberra’s only local weekend news and current affairs program.

Venezuelan Day at the Latin American

flavours festival

It’s a revolving panel show that brings to the microphone great “CityNews” commentators and 2CC personalities.

Be part of the conversation and call 6255 1206 between 10am and noon.

Venezuelan Buffet • Dinner & Dessert from 6pm For more information visit canberra.park.hyatt.com visit our Facebook page or book your table now by calling (02) 62698810 12 CityNews September 17-23, 2015

scene / around canberra

Photos by ANDREW FINCH

At the opening of Queanbeyan Players’ 50th At the Youth Ambassadors of Taiwan anniversary exhibition, The Q Performing Arts Centre performance, National Gallery of Australia

Georgina Perri and Judith Burfoot

Paul and Lara Cristofani

Jenny Grierson with Theresa and Josie Buetre

Lenore Cupitt and Tina Robinson

Christina Philipp and Belinda Hassall

Phil Perman with Jackie, Anna and Gary Collinson

Emily Fairbairn and Bronwyn McIlvar

Scott Saywell and Rachel Strong

Li Chun, Chen Yating, Taiwan ambassador Dr. David Lee, Wang Chun Kai, James Troy and Mei Chiling

Helen Doherty, Barbara StuartHarris and Lucinda Lang

David Leigh, Phillip Fernandez, Helen McIntyre and Gary Gledhill

Wendy Shepherd, Amy Wolf, Melita Flynn and Jodie Shepherd

Shane Robinson, Olivia Charge with Kay and John Beagle

Brian and Anette Charge with Kevin and Pat Harley

Behind-the-scenes tours of beautiful gardens and courtyards An exhibition of stunning gifts presented to the Parliament Spring Tea in one of the picturesque courtyards Garden-inspired gifts from The Parliament Shop Bookings: canberraticketing.com.au or ☎ (02) 6275 2700

aph.gov.au/visitparliament

Photographs by Auspic

CityNews September 17-23, 2015 13

WIN

scene / around canberra At St Eddies’ Cooking for the Community Menslink fundraiser, Southern Cross Club, Woden

a trip for 2 to

HAMILTON

ISLAND

Vote for your canberra Club to go in the draw to win

Nadia Colbertaldo and Daniela Dal Cortivo

Marcus Paul and the Queanbeyan Mayor Tim Overall

Rena and Jenna Spears, Michelle Taylor and Pauline Bowyer

Rex Purcell and Sandra Marie

Alexander Anlezark, Sophie De Kantzow and Ian Anlezark

yourcanberraclubs.com.au Daniel Lawler, Martin Fisk and Richard Luton

Tracey Brown, Sarah Schmidt and Sue Cross

At the Canberra branch’s 50th Australian Computer Society Conference reception, Civic

Jonathan Mettes, Ajyden Lydiard and Kent O’Sullivan

Chris Johnson, Peter Outteridge and Mark Nicholls

Kate Muir, Penny Collings and Christine Pitt

Stephen Boyle, Jasmine Phimphra, Kylie Wade and Luke Scarlett

ACT Residents 18+ only. Between 01/08/15 & 12:00 midnight 30/09/15. Vote for your favourite Canberra club for a chance to win a trip for two to Hamilton Island. See venue staff for full conditions or go to yourcanberraclubs.com.au. Promoter: ClubsACT (ABN 89 136 205 639 ) Permit No. ACT TP 15/06626.

Adam Rice, Wendy Young and Chris Lam

14 CityNews September 17-23, 2015

Steve Armitage, Elizabeth Re and Conrad Henley-Calvert

Photos by ANDREW FINCH

At the 2015 Meninga Medal presentation, AIS Arena

Shaun Cassar, Sophie Sileg, Heidi Waltman and Pino Di Dio

Pirithaa Vijayavicknesh and Tharmini Kumar

Kieran Moun and Nathan Harrison

Chris Glennie and Candice Bill-Glennie

Paul and Sharon Bouduille

Vern Amey, Sue Friend and Colin Copeland

Wade and Dale Turner

Matthew and Rebecca Hotchkis

At the Albo Corn Ale Beer Launch, Civic

Publican Peter Barclay with MP Anthony Albanese, after whom the beer is named, with brewer Pat McInerney

Anais Duparc and Anne-Elise Veto

Dot, Maddie and Alison Barclay

Louise Crossman and Suzanne Orr

Maria Hawthorne, Tom McKernan and Charlotte Barclay

Andrew McIndoe and Paul Dickson CityNews September 17-23, 2015  15

all about home improvements

The right people who make a big difference Home of clothing and safely gear

FROM redecorating to restoration, creating a dream home or garden can be stressful. Here is a selection of experts and products dedicated to making the task a little easier.

FOR high-vis workwear, safety equipment and boots, Seears Workwear has the lot, says owner/manager Shane Seears.

“We’ve been based in Fyshwick for 12 years in the same spot, and it’s great because it’s the hub of business in Canberra,” he says.

Seears Workwear is family owned and operated, run by Pat Seears and his son Shane.

The 1400 square-metre store sells clothing and safety gear for pretty much every kind of industry and worker, Shane says – from building labourers, chefs, blue- and white-collar workers to hospitals, major companies, and government departments such as Defence.

“We also have a corporate section, where we provide a free measureand-quote and free delivery service,” he says. “We offer a full embroidery and screen-printing service, too.”

Seears keeps a huge range of stock on the premises, and sells online at seearsworkwear.com.au

The flatpack solution that fits “CUSTOM Flatpack allows you to have a perfectly designed and manufactured kitchen that works with your room layout, at the price of an off-the-shelf kitchen,” says owner Mike Moritz.

“Yes, you can buy flatpack cabinets from the hardware store, but what if they don’t fit your room?” says Mike.

“We can either install for you, or you can put it together and have a kitchen you can be proud that you built yourself.”

Mike says that their exclusive mortise-and-tenon assembly method is fast to assemble, making for an accurate and simple installation process for novices and tradies alike.

“Our flatpack cabinets can be used for your wardrobe, bathroom vanity, garage storage, home office, computer room, bookcases or laundry, the choices are endless,” he says.

Custom Flatpack also supports the use of sustainable and renewable technologies, processes and suppliers across all their products.

Custom Flatpack, 1/11 Shropshire Street, Queanbeyan. Call 6298 1445 or visit customflatpack.com.au

Seears Workwear, 60 Barrier Street, Fyshwick. Call 6280 4111 or visit seearsworkwear.com.au

Cabinet makers with a flair for special care STEVE Milutinovic started his cabinet-making business in 1983 and, 32 years on, the company has grown into specialising in home renovations, extensions and new homes.

Bordeaux specialises in commercial fitouts and joinery and are also fully licensed builders in NSW and ACT. “We pride ourselves in achieving the highest standard for our customers in design and workmanship,” Steve says.

“Our prices are competitive and we work with you to achieve your desired outcome.

“We offer full trade co-ordination and have our own experienced and reliable tradesmen and expert staff to assist you in your project.

Our custom-built, cabinet-making workshop can also build joinery items to suit your needs whether for home or office.

“We also recently received an MBA commendation award for ‘Special Care’ residence as we specialise in housing needs for the aged.”

Bordeaux Construction and Bordeaux Kitchens offer obligation-free quotes.

Bordeaux Construction, 8 Aurora Place, Queanbeyan, call 6299 4642.

Visit bordeauxbcm.com.au or facebook.com/BordeauxBCM

Feel comfort with…

• Tapware • Vanities • Bathroomware • Ceramic Tiles & Glass Vessels • Porcelain Tiles • Stone

• Mosaics • Terracotta • Glass • Marble • Adhesives • Tiling Tools

Utes with and without cages

OPEN 7 DAYS

Keep your cool in summer and watch winter, rather than feel it!

Catering for • Builders • Renovators • Architects • Interior Designers Unit 4b, 22-24 Essington St Mitchell www.tileflair.com.au info@tileflair.com.au

p 02 6241 7474 • f 02 6241 0581 16 CityNews September 17-23, 2015

Perfect for moving house and rubbish PHONE 02 6242 8500 5 WINCHCOMBE COURT, MITCHELL ACT 2911

Solace Creations’ double-glazed windows and doors, made and tested in Australia.

Local supplier, local service 17 Townsville Street, Fyshwick ACT 2609 Phone: 02 6260 1621 www.solacecreations.com.au

advertising feature Getting a grip on safety

People who love to renovate PAC Carpentry and Joinery takes pride in designing and building kitchens, bathrooms and wardrobes.

With customer satisfaction as a top priority, the family-owned business aims to provide a friendly, professional service that ensures every project is completed to a high standard and as stress-free as possible.

Managing director Peter Theodosiou says: “PAC Carpentry and Joinery has been going since 2002, specialising in full kitchen and bathroom renovations and providing complete wardrobe design and installation for homes and offices.”

As a licensed builder, Peter and his team of qualified carpenters and joiners, provide a free measure and quote, 3D drawings and co-ordinate all trades required.

“We provide services to Canberra, Queanbeyan, Yass and the surrounding districts,” says Peter.

“By co-ordinating all the trades, we make your renovation easier.”

PAC Carpentry & Joinery, Unit 9/86 Sheppard Street, Hume.

Call 6260 1403 or 0408 695935, visit packitchens.com.au

OWNER Greg King says: “gripACTion is committed to providing services and products to help people stop slipping, tripping or falling.”

With a focus on safety, gripACTion aims to fix problems such as slippery floors and dangerous stairs in commercial and domestic environments.

“Trips and falls are big contributors to accidents and lawsuits, which can lead to a loss of income and production,” says Greg.

The company helps with slippery surfaces by providing advice on the appropriate surface treatment, providing products to improve the slippery surfaces and providing the “people power” in rectifying the problem.

“We analyse and advise on what is the most appropriate solution for a slippery surface, whether it be a floor, stair, entrance or wall surface,” says Greg.

“The non-slip products we offer are floor treatments, stair nosing, non-slip tape, safety mats and tactile indicators.

“Slipping or falling can happen to anyone so don’t let it happen to you! Don’t wait for accidents to happen, be prepared and get gripACTion Greg King. in for a free assessment now.”

Call 0402 353812 or visit gripaction.com.au

SLIPPERY FLOORS? HAD A SLIP OR NEAR SLIP?

…the most trusted non-slip floor treatment is ‘keeping the world on its feet’

Using a unique and remarkable floor treatment we microscopically modify your floor surface and dramatically increase slip resistance.

• Perfect for those tile areas • No visible change to floor appearance

• No special maintenance • Fully trained expert operators • Warranty for peace of mind

Solutions for slippery surfaces Call 0402 353 812 for a free, no obligation on-site demonstration.

www.gripaction.com.au

est workwear out ou o utl utlet utlet tle let ett Your one stop workwear and safety shop Fulll rang Full range ra ang nge ge of: off: • Harn Har H Ha Harnesses arne rne essses esse sess • Fir F First irst rst stt aid aid kit k kits its ts • Safe Saf S Safety afety fety ty equ e equipment quip uipmen pm men ent nt • Protec Protective P Prot ro ote ecti tive ve e clot ccl clothing lo oth thing hin ing g • Corp Co Corp rp po porate porate ora ate e and an nd tra tr trade rad rad de un de unifo uniforms nifo for orrm rms mss m •W Wide Wi e rang ran ra rrange nge ge e of of p protective rote ro otect te ect ctive tive ve gear gea gea ear ar •W Workwear Wo orkwea orkw kwe ear arr fo ffor orr all alll ttr trades rra ad ade des es

Australia wide distribution MSA M SA AUT UTHORISED HORIS HO RISED D DEALER EA ER

Master Mas M Mast stter err B Bui Builders uilld ders errss 2010 2 20 010 0 Su up pp plier pl lie err of of th the he eY ear ea ar Win Winner W in nne er er Supplier Year

TRA RADE ADE A AN AND ND D MA MAS M MASTER AS ST S TER TE ER R BUILDER BU B UIL U IL LDER LDE ER RM MEMBER MEM MB BER BER DISCOUNTS DIS D SCO SCO OU UN UNTS NTS APP PPLY

ORDER O RDER DER N NOW NO OW

02 6280 4111

www.seearsworkwear.com.au ww w w w.seear ww ..ss eeeeeaaarr s w woo r kkw weeaar a r.com.au ..co .cccoo m m.. a u

6600 B Barrier a r rrii e r S Street, t rree eet, F Fyshwick yyss h hw w iiccckk A AC ACT CT C T CityNews September 17-23, 2015 17

all about home improvements Growing interest in landscape design With a focus on sustainable and inspiring solutions that reflect an understanding of the unique characteristics that each landscape project brings, Amanda Evans, owner of Area Designs, says she loves the process of designing outdoor spaces and landscapes.

Since starting Area Design Consultants in 2006, Amanda has provided commercial landscape architecture, residential design, urban design and horticultural services to Canberra and surrounding southern NSW region.

As an AILA registered landscape architect and qualified horticulturalist whose family owned one of Canberra’s oldest nursery businesses, Amanda is an experienced design teacher and is currently the immediate past president of the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects.

Amanda has taught design at the University of Canberra and brings experience and passion for plants, design and positive outcomes to every project.

She says: “Along with the design service, the practice also offers a full horticulture consultancy service, which can range from providing a garden health check-up where we can offer advice on soil, site and plant issues to preparing a planting plan for an existing garden upgrade.

OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Kitchens • Bathrooms • Interiors • Exteriors … by Bordeaux BORDEAUX KITCHENS

(Associated with Capital Cabinetmaking) Specialise in custom-built design and joinery • Kitchens • Vanity and laundry units QUALIT Commercial Joinery WORK F Y • Shop/office • Home office O OVER 3 R • Experienced tradesmen and full 0 YEARS! trade co-ordination available

BORDEAUX BATHROOMS • Designed with you with your budget in mind • High standard of workmanship • High quality finish • Completed on time, every time

BORDEAUX CONSTRUCTION & MANAGEMENT PTY LTD Total design consultancy • Home • Office • Shop • Commercial premises • Extend or Renovate existing homes • Build your new dream home

BordeauxBCM BordeauxBCM www.bordeauxbcm.com.au

CALL TODAY FOR AN OBLIGATION FREE QUOTE Showroom Hours: Mon-Fri: 9.00am to 4.00pm, Sat: 9.00am to 12pm, or by appointment

8 Aurora Place, Queanbeyan • Phone 6299 4642 • www.bordeauxkitchens.com.au 18 CityNews September 17-23, 2015

Area Designs, call 0409 318213 or email amanda@areadesign.net.au

Looking after quilts

• IAG & Baumatic “Studio Solari” appliances available • Kitchens made to your specifications and colour choice – save money by installing yourself • Tradesmen available to help • Wardrobes – from boutique walk-ins to basic built-ins • SOHO options – built in desks/workstations • Filing solutions & storage units to keep your home office under control • Full range of Blum, Grass & Hafele storage accessories and lighting • Australian made to Australian Standards – not imported or mass produced

P 6298 1445 | M 0438 215 652 | www.customflatpack.com.au 1/11 Shropshire Street, Queanbeyan

“With more than 20 years of experience in the horticulture industry, and over 10 in the design industry, we choose our plants and materials based on the principle that the design aesthetic and desired sustainability outcomes will be defined and enhanced by the careful understanding of site conditions and existing character of the spaces they are to inhabit.”

Rob’s utes do the job FOR the past six years, Mitchell Rent a Ute has provided light commercial vehicles to the Canberra region.

After Rob Cunningham started the hire company as a side business with Premier Automotive, he has had a high demand from people wanting to improve their homes.

As a result, Mitchell Rent a Ute are often booked solid by the time Saturday rolls around.

He said: “People use them for building materials, it’s ideal for getting rid of rubbish, moving house or when you’ve demolished something.

“We hire out vehicles for as little as two hours at a time. Every weekend our vans and utes are booked out.”

Mitchell Rent a Ute offers a wide range of vehicles and are available seven days a week (early booking is recommended).

THERMA Quilts is a locally owned and family-run business that specialises in making and servicing quilts, eiderdowns, pillows and cushions and anything made from feather and down.

Using quality German textiles, the seamstresses at Therma Quilts hand make every item on the premises, offering tailor customisations and providing top-up and recasing services for when quilts and pillows show signs of wear or loss of warmth and fluffiness.

With their unique cleaning process, which involves the feather and down being cleaned separately from the product casing in a specialised steamer and washing machine, the feather and down regain their loft and thermal resistance.

Owner, Jennifer Kusa, says: “Our eco-friendly detergents mean that there are no harsh chemical residues on products.

Using our cleaning process, we can clean quilts, sleeping bags, down jackets and more when they are in need of rejuvenation or before they are stored after winter.”

Therma Quilts also services silk, polyester, cotton and wool quilt underlays with eco-friendly detergents that have been modified and specifically formulated to clean each of these products individually.

Therma Quilts, 10-12 Kemble Court, Mitchell. Open 9am-4pm, Monday to Friday. Call 6241 6859 or visit thermaquilts.com.au

Mitchell Rent a Ute, 5 Winchcombe Court, Mitchell.

Call 6242 8500.

Duffy Full Front Bar Rustic Style RRP $1499 Sale Price $1049 End of Sept

Medina Home Theatre Lounge - Black or Grey RRP $2499 Sale $1249 End of Sept

Entertain NOW in Spring straight from the factory ‘No Reasonable Offer Sale”

Open 7 Days a Week (02) 6228 1542 • 5D Barrier Street, Fyshwick

www.westlandcanberra.com

advertising feature Windows as you’ve never seen them before CREATING energy-efficient and sustainable homes is the passion of Solace Creations.

Recently moved to a new mega-store on Townsville Street, Fyshwick, Solace Creations joined with Ultimate Windows and offers new displays of uPVC double-glazed windows and doors, as well as aluminium windows and doors.

Announced as Canberra’s Business Woman of the year 2015, owner, Karen Porter says: “I can’t understand why we have a code in place that says we must insulate our walls and ceiling, yet there is no rule to insulate our windows or doors.

“Windows and doors make up about 30 per cent of our wall space and putting in a single piece of glass does not provide any insulation

value.”

Solace Creations won the 2014 ACT Telstra Micro Business Award and was rated in the top eight Australian Micro Businesses.

“If you incorporate double glazing into your design, the investment that you make upfront will be about $450 a year in mortgage repayments on a standard home,” she says.

“Your energy savings will be about $1400, which provides an annual savings of $950 from the first year.”

The company works with more than six preferred suppliers from Melbourne and all its products are Australian-made and tested.

Solace Creations, 17 Townsville Street, Fyshwick. Call 6260 1621 or visit solacecreations.com.au

Therma Quilts The feather and down experts for over 30 years

SERVICE FOR YOUR QUILTS, PILLOWS, CUSHIONS & DOWN JACKETS Cleaning & rejuvenating of all feather & down products.

Proudly a locally owned family business.

All goods made on site.

Custom made products to your specifications; • Quilts, pillows, cushions and baby papooses • Seniors booties and hand muffs • Travel range & pet products

Unit 9, 10-12 Kemble Court, Mitchell • www.thermaquilts.com.au Phone: 6241 6859 • Email: shop@thermaquilts.com.au

Karen Porter.

AREA DESIGN CONSULTANTS is a multi-disciplinary consultancy providing landscape architecture, urban design, horticulture, interior design and graphic support within Canberrra and Southern NSW.

Enquiries call 6231 8213 • email amanda@areadesign.net.au • visit www.areadesign.net.au

KITCHENS....

“It’s time to

refresh

Tiles of ‘affordable elegance’ TILEFLAIR has been supplying high-quality tiles to Canberra’s builders, architects, interior designers and home renovators for more than 11 years.

Owner, Peter Bonelli, says: “We pride ourselves on delivering the best customer satisfaction that we can and we’d really like to thank all our customers for their support over the past 11 years.

“We’re a family-owned, local business, and we have a great range of floor and wall tiles, including ceramics, porcelains, stones and glass. We are conscious of the changing trends and work towards suiting the customer’s individual needs.”

Peter has worked in the local industry for more

than 20 years and deals with Canberra’s leading tilers, architects, builders and interior designers.

He says: “The spacious, modern showroom is regularly updated with the latest releases.

“Unlike other tile shops, we are open seven days a week, including Saturdays from 8am to 3pm and Sundays from 10am to 3pm.

“It is a chance for busy, do-it-yourself renovators to find their own little pieces of ‘affordable elegance’.”

BATHROOMS....

Tileflair, 22 Essington Street, Mitchell.

Call 6162 3080 or visit tileflair.com.au

All custom made to suit your desires....your needs.....your wants.....your ‘got to haves’

Furniture perfect for any home Westland Furniture are specialists in custom-made furniture, offering a variety of styles and sizes perfect for any home.

Under new management, the Fyshwick store supplies home furnishing for bedrooms, dining rooms, home offices, living and lounge rooms.

Manager Daniel Gow says: “Using the customer’s measurements, we can custom-make to size and work on a design that suits their style preference.

“We can make TV units, coffee tables, bed suites, wardrobes, wall units, dining suites, study desks and more. We have a range of colours including walnut, maple and Melbourne, as well as a variety of features to attach, including handles and push-open drawers.

“The new Faust home theatre lounge suites are popular, they come in silver, grey or black with two recliners and storage.”

Open seven days a week, Westland Furniture also

your style...”

WARDROBES....

To find out what great things Peter and his team can do with your building/renovating budget Call 02 62601403 E: peter@packitchens.com.au Online: packitchens.com.au

offers a range of mattresses, as well as hardwood including chestnut, rosewood, jarrah and pine.

It will be the best decision you will make!!

Westland Furniture, 5 Barrier Street, Fyshwick. Call 6228 1542 or 0423 645027. Visit westlandcanberra.com.au or email westlandcanberra@outlook.com CityNews September 17-23, 2015 19

arts & entertainment

Performer Ania Reynolds. in Circus Oz’s “But Wait There’s More”.

Running, jumping and boring!

Dougal Macdonald

Photos by Rob Blackburn Performer April Dawson.

Roll up, roll up, there’s more to this circus COVER STORY

By Helen Musa

ROLL UP, roll up, Circus Oz is coming to town, but this time instead of stars and spangles, it’ll look like they’re in an abandoned theatre.

Costume designer Laurel Frank, along with “senior clown” Tim Coldwell, is one of the last two remaining founding members of Circus Oz – a 37-year labour of love.

She does other work, too, “but I always keep at least one eye out for Circus Oz”.

Frank and the other creatives have had their work cut out with a show that looks back to an earlier tradition of TV vaudeville, while looking forward to newer conventions.

Hip-hop artist Candy Bowers plays the crossover role of ring mistress.

Times have changed, with increasing professionalism meaning increasing specialisation. When Frank joined the legendary The Australian Performing Group at Melbourne’s Pram Factory, it was a case of all hands on deck. Luckily, with an electrician father and a dressmaker mother, she brought useful skills and got to help operate lighting and sound, gradually moving into costume design.

“It was a great training ground for skills, although I was never formally trained,” she says.

Performer Matt Wilson.

Frank quickly made herself the Australian expert on circus-costuming and keeps up-to-date, recently travelling the world and confirming that Circus Oz is still “at the forefront of the new circus form”.

New it may be, but some things never change in circus and audiences can expect to see a mix of stunt-jumping acrobatics, juggling, hoop diving, flying trapeze, impersonations and knockabout.

“In circus, costumes have to function with whatever skills are needed,” she explains.

“If acrobats have to climb down a Chinese pole, you need strength in the costumes, but for trapeze artists, you need something light,

tight and flexible… still, I always tried to make the costumes as beautiful as possible.”

This time there’s been an additional demand on her visual sensitivity. The production draws on the tradition of TV shows like Graham Kennedy’s “In Melbourne Tonight”, where high-selling commercial product-placement reigned supreme.

“Not much has changed in TV ads,” Frank says and, in the new show, “But Wait There’s More”, Circus Oz talks about what’s happening now with consumerism, drawing on the lurid colours and grotesque make-up used to register in black and white in early TV. This time round there’s a new Chinese pole act with an acrobatic dance surrounding it, meaning that the fabrics must be tough for the pole work yet light and graceful for the dance. The conventional steel poles are now covered with Neoprene sheets, so sticky that sometimes the costumes get left behind!

“It may sound like a small thing, but it has occupied a huge number of hours to get the right combination of fabric tightness and elegance.

“I didn’t see that coming,” Frank sighs, “but hey, that’s circus, really.”

Circus Oz, “But Wait There’s More”, Canberra Theatre, September 23-26. Bookings to canberratheatrecentre.com.au or 6275 2700.

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS - BOOK NOW! GOD WILLING recent Italian box-office T hissuccess won Best New Director for Eduardo Falcone at the recent Italian Oscars and tells the riotous story of an atheist surgeon with a God-complex, a charismatic priest, a dysfunctional family

MID FESTIVAL AFFAIR:

FORGIVEN NOT FORGOTTEN

22 SEPTEMBER – 11 OCTOBER EXCLUSIVELY AT PALACE ELECTRIC CINEMA 20 CityNews September 17-23, 2015

new offering T hisfromcharming writer/director Cristina Comencini tells the story of the life and secrets of great Italian star, Saverio Crispo (Francesco Scianna).

Full programme and Tickets visit italianfilmfestival.com.au

and an announcement that takes everyone by surprise!

The festival’s opening night film features a string of hilarious situations, an undercover investigation, and a family in upheaval.

DO YOU SEE ME? comedic T hisgemwarm-hearted, starring Paola Cortellesi and Raoul Bova delivers laugh out loud moments and celebrates the importance of individual value and being true to oneself.

lavazzaitalianfilmfestival

@italianff

arts in the city

When volunteers take to the spotlight

By Helen Musa

Rosie Hosking, Amity Dry and Nikki Aitken in “Mother, Wife and the Complicated Life”.

Ultimate girls’ night out “MOTHER, Wife and the Complicated Life” is a new Australian musical set to counter the Hollywood version of marriage and motherhood. Chosen for the New York Musical Theatre Festival, it was written by Amity Dry, familiar from Channel Nine’s hit TV show “The Block”, who also stars in the show that they’re billing “The Ultimate Girls’ Night Out.” At The Q, Queanbeyan, until September 27, bookings to theq.net.au or 6285 6290.

“CANBERRA Botanical” is an adjudicated exhibition of more than 80 artworks running until October 5, daily from 10am to 4pm at the Nishi Gallery in NewActon.

All are welcome to opening night, Friday September 18 from 6pm-8pm, when a silent auction will be held. The works are for sale.

CANBERRA bassoonist David Whitbread’s second solo bassoon recital will help “Save the Bassoon”, an international campaign that started at the Holland Festival this year. With backing music from rock bands, jazz combos, solo pianists and guitarists, swing bands and full orchestras, it will be

“exhausting but rewarding”, Whitbread predicts. At Wesley Music Centre, 2pm, on Sunday, September 20.

Entry by note donation from 1.30pm. All proceeds to StreetSwags.org AMBER Lawrence, country music’s Golden Guitar Female Artist of the Year, heads up the “Girls of Country” tour coming to the Canberra Southern Cross Club on Thursday, September 24. Lawrence will be joined by fellow country songstresses Aleyce Simmonds and Lyn Bowtell, in a two-hour show featuring their individual hits and some trios. Bookings to ticketek.com.au TOBY Cole and the Canberra Choral Society are staging “Come and Sing Messiah” in Llewellyn Hall on December 12, but applications to join in close on October 12 and rehearsals start on November 2. “Wonderful” and “thrilling” are some other words the society is using of the experience. Visit trybooking.com/150139 THE 16th Italian Film Festival has 32 titles this year, opening with the smash comedy “God Willing” (Se Dio Vuole), starring Alessandro Gassmann, Marco Giallini and Laura Morante and closing with a new restoration of the Bernardo Bertolucci’s “The Conformist” (Il Conformista). At Palace Cinemas in NewActon until October 11, Bookings to palacecinemas.com.au

HELEN MUSA THE HOME OF THE HARD TO FIND!

much, but then everything gets turned on its head when he is visited WHEN watching a thriller in by Sam, a rich, successful friend from his old school days who releases the the theatre, with goodies, cat among the pigeons,” she says. baddies and a dose of The thriller-mystery has been psychotic menace, you never billed as “Lantana meets Pulp Fiction”. The dialogue was recorded, the expect to get caught up in show was packed on to a truck and it… unless you’re one of the then, with just a couple of people to six volunteer actors in “The operate it, driven around Australia and unpacked into a “house within Confidence Man”. walls” built in the theatre.

The show’s script is only the tip of Daff voices the character of Peter’s the iceberg and the characterisation daughter Anita, but she won’t be is created by the volunteer actors who travelling here, her job being done. don masks and take to the stage where She and the other creatives are well they are guided through their parts via aware that many audience members headphones as the plot thickens. dread being drawn into interactive It is the work of theatre and film theatre and is quick to assure artist Zoe Pepper and is produced “CityNews” that nobody is required by the Perth company Side Pony to make up any original dialogue.

Productions, which was set up in “Wearing a big mask of your 2005 as a vehicle for Pepper’s work. character, you’ll get to remain nice “The Confidence Man” is coming to The Street Theatre later this month for eight, 45-minute performances.

Adriane Daff, as well as having co-written “The Confidence Man” with Pepper a couple years ago, “voices” one of the characters. The words and voices are set, but the actions are in the hands of the volunteer performers.

“We have a character Peter, a family man married with “The Confidence Man” characters Peter and a daughter, who feels Photo by Skye Sobejko like he hasn’t achieved Anita.

We can take your vinyl records or cassette tapes and put them onto CD and we transfer VHS tapes onto DVD.

Social Dancing Friday @ Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah

s on TicketN OW SALE AN EVENING OF: SUPERB FINE ART GOURMET FOOD GREAT ENTERTAINMENT by

2/07/2015 10:36 am

2015 ART AUCTION CANBERRA MUSEUM + GALLERY

Funky Fedoras GREAT LOCATION

Bookings by phone CONTACT MARILYN GRAY 0407 512 296

Corner London Circuit & Civic Square, Canberra ACT

Saturday 7th november 2015 6.45pm - 11.00pm OnLine Tickets available at

q

Cooleman Court Weston Creek | 6293 4677 www.songland.com.au | OPEN 7 DAYS

Classes for all: Junior & Adult Classes @ Isabella Plains

EN2489.indd 1

P re s e n t e d b y t h e m a s t e r o f a l l t h i n g s c e re m o n i a l the fabulous C A P O PAT R O N

Would you like to watch those old family ONLY videos once again, or listen to your $ 25 favourite records on CD?

PROFESSIONAL, FUN TUITION IN BALLROOM DANCING

open 7 days at Gold Creek | aarwungallery.com

M r PA U L M c D E R M O T T

Converting Services - to CD and DVD

“The Confidence Man”, The Street Theatre, September 20-23, (post-show Q&A following 1pm performance on September 22). Bookings to thestreet. org.au or 6247 1223.

Phone: 02 6296 4009 Mobile: 0407 066 110 Email: dale_harris@bigpond.com Web: www.dalesballroomdancing.com.au Principal: Dale Harris

MORE ART MORE ARTISTS MORE CHOICE

aarwun gallery

and anonymous,” she says.

So while the plot takes the same turn every night, the detail does not.

“The fun and joy of the piece comes from seeing how people interpret the guidelines laid down for them,” says Daff.

“You may be told to sit down at the table and put your head down and shake your shoulders, because you’re about to cry. Different people will do that differently. Some people bring something thoughtful into the role and some people bring something more sinister.”

The on-stage participants only get to listen to their own character, but the 50 or so audience members sitting out the front, each armed with a smartphone, can tune in as voyeurs.

Pepper will be here with a technical assistant to set it all up. “We have a joke that working the show is like setting up rides in a theme park,” Daff says. Canberra audiences are about to be taken for that ride.

capo.org.au/auctions/auction-tickets/ CityNews September 17-23, 2015 21

arts & entertainment / cinema

Running, jumping, mediocre and, well, boring!

“Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials” (PG) THE plot of this sequel to last year’s futurist action fantasy based on a novel by James Dashner tries to answer the questions that its predecessor left hanging.

After surviving the Maze last year, the heroes get taken into durance vile that smiling villain Jansen (Aidan Gillen) manages for WCKD, which has divided humanity into those it wants to save and those it deems not worth saving. In time, chief scientist Paige (Patricia Clarkson) selects seven for their value as guinea pigs in trials for the cure of a malady that would wipe humanity out.

Here is the film’s only element of moral value.

Thomas (Dylan O’Brien) leads six other young men, picking up girlfriend Teresa (Kaya Scodelario) as they go, in a breakout involving much running, jumping and related violence.

Outside the facility, they find themselves in a devastated urban landscape. So they set off on foot across a desert toward the mountain range where they expect, even hope, to find a resistance group that has survived destruction.

Summing up, Wes Ball’s film is mediocre, boring crap offering spectacular visuals to distract attention from its otherwise chokingly-formulaic dramatic void. There’s scant development of either character or plot.

It’s a drawn-out pursuit saga using resources that any apocalypse worth its salt would render inaccessible. Petroleum, for example.

game emissions three decades ago, who’s Cooper going to call? Why, his old buddy and Pac Man wizard Brenner and their mutual pal Ludlow (Josh Gad).

And when those two walk into the White House Situation Room, whom should they see but Violet. Wearing a colonel’s badges on her jacket.

The invading Pac Men are giant orange spheres that can be defeated only by obeying the rules of the computer game. Violet realises that beneath his humble exterior, Brenner conceals a nice-guy patriot with a good brain.

“Pixels” follows a predictable formula with gentle comedy values satirising American political, social, intellectual and military institutions. Who could ask for more?

At Hoyts, Capitol 6, Limelight

Dylan O’Brien as Thomas in “Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials”.

“Life” (MA)

God bless America. Without gas-guzzlers and guns, where would Hollywood’s vision of its future be? “The Scorch Trials” portends a further sequel.

WHILE “Life” magazine isn’t the principal theme of Dutch filmmaker Anton Corbijn’s fourth feature, it provides a thread underlying a story about a Hollywood star that shone brightly in only three feature films in 1953.

James Dean’s influence on cinema grew out of the public’s need for someone to stand up for the disenfranchised young of the era, and the air of androgyny that he projected onscreen.

At all cinemas

“Pixels” (PG) IN 1982, schoolboy Brenner (Adam Sandler) was runner-up to Eddie (Peter Dinklage) in the world Pac Man championships.

Today, a whole generation plays far more complex games on their mobile phones.

Some call this progress.

Leap forward to now time. Brenner installs

TV systems. Today he is working in the apartment occupied by divorcee Violet (Michelle Monaghan). There’s no way she’s going to show interest in a mere tradesman.

The US military base on Guam detects an unidentified threat coming from outer space. Military panjandrums led by Admiral Porter prepare to shoot it down. At school, President Cooper (Kevin James) and Brenner were buddies. When the invader is identified as a race of Pac Men created by computer-

O ur P lace

Luke Davies has written a screenplay for Corbijn that examines the friendship between Dean (Dane DeHaan) and freelance photographer Dennis Stock (Robert Pattinson) and the influence that Stock’s pictures, first published in a four-page spread toward the back of an issue of “Life”, had on Dean’s career.

Corbijn’s films challenge the filmgoer’s responses. The film flows at an unhurried pace through the period between the release of “East of Eden” and “Rebel Without A Cause”. Not a Hollywood exposé of how the studio system used to work (Ben Kingsley plays a ruthless Jack Warner), it concentrates on Stock’s ambitions and friendship between the two young men.

Much of the film takes place on the Dean family farm in Indiana, where Stock shot the candids that his agent John Morris (Joel Egerton) eventually sold to “Life” magazine.

Many of those original shots background the final credits. But those that most delighted me were shots on the farm in winter. They’re truly splendid, shot for the film in colour but a reminder of the artistic power of still black and white photography.

At Palace Electric

Hi-Fi Spring Clean?

House calls from $50

For enquiries phone

6282 1333 KL2116-V42.indd 1

Launching the 50 year celebration of Belconnen in 2016 FREE FESTIVAL EVENT • MUSIC • FOOD • ART • DANCE Saturday 19 September • 4:00-8:00pm • Belconnen Arts Centre www.belconnenartscentre.com.au

Cnr of Botany St & Altree Crt, Phillip 11/09/2015 10:56 am

At The Little Flame Co. we pride ourselves on handmade high quality scented soy candles and products.

Melbourne Cup EXPERIENCE

We are located and produce our products in Goulburn, NSW. We offer free shipping on all orders.

FRENCH CONNECTION

SUNDAY 18 OCTOBER 2015

Hotel Realm

18 National Circuit,

Canberra 2pm - 5pm

Early bird After 30 Sept tix $99pp @ danielleclearyevents.com

in support of

For further information on our products and services please contact Cheyenne on 0419 164 265 or www.thelittleflameco.bigcartel.com 22 CityNews September 17-23, 2015

arts & entertainment / dining

A diplomatic taste of Paraguay WHEN you ask Esteban Bedoya what his favourite Aussie food is, he says good, old, meat pie, preferably lamb. Yup, a meat pie.

He is the Paraguayan embassy’s chargé d’affaires. He admits he’s not a gastronomy expert but says his tastebuds dance when exploring foods from around the world.

Paraguayans and Australians love to socialise over food. The cuisines of both countries embrace many cultural influences. Both, for example, adore the notion of an asado (barbecue).

Born in Asunción, Esteban has a Masters in International Relations and is a published author with several literary awards. His diplomatic activity has connected him with many parts of the world.

“Gastronomy shows the cultural roots of a country,” he says.

“It enables a nation to gain recognition for its unique qualities.”

This is why he’s excited that Paraguay is part of the Hyatt’s first Latin America Flavours Festival.

Thirteen embassies have worked with executive chef Nitin Kumar on the festival, spending months researching, planning and designing menus. Diners will embark on an aromatic journey starting with Cuba and travelling through to Mexico. Paraguay’s special buffet is September 19.

As with Australia, Paraguay’s modern food combines unique origins with international influences.

“Paraguayan cuisine has much in common with the rest of Latin America, but our history led us to develop our own gastronomy,” says

FLORIADE SPECIAL

LUNCH SPECIAL • $7.50 • MONDAY TO FRIDAY Celebrated as one of the best restaurants in Canberra with a variety of vegetarian / vegan food WE SERVE EXCLUSIVE NEPALESE & INDIAN CUISINE Try our highly enjoyed Butter Chicken & Momos

For bookings call 6257 9364

Located at 34 Northbourne Ave, Sydney Building, Civic

Welcome to the DELHI 6 Authentic Indian Cuisine

EXPERIENCE OUR NEW RESTAURANT IN TUGGERANONG HYPERDOME

• Located in the heart of Canberra, Delhi 6 offers a mesmerising experience backed by our centuries old recipes and use of authentic Indian spices and locally sourced fresh produce • Dine in or take-away

Esteban.

“The basic diet of the Indigenous Guaraníes consisted of wild game, wild freshwater fish and grains from their crops. They had 11 cooking methods.

“Mestizo food emerged in the 16th century – a fusion of Guaraní cuisine and that of Spanish colonisers, heavily influenced by the Arab culture. In the 19th century, waves of European migrants introduced cassava, maize, new recipes and new cooking methods.”

Today, Paraguay’s restaurants are innovative including local tropical fruits, the native Stevia – the sweetest of all sweeteners – and Yerba Mate, from the South American rainforest holly tree.

Esteban’s favourite dishes are of indigenous origin.

“I love Mbejú, a cassava starch

flat bread, for its simplicity and flavour,” he says.

“It’s eaten alone or with Yerba Mate brew for breakfast or soup at lunch.”

On the festival’s Paraguayan evening, executive chef Kumar will serve six to eight dishes, including Asado A La Olla (slow-cooked beef short ribs), possibly accompanied by a hearty cornbread (Sopa Paraguaya) or a cornbread cake (Chipá Guazú). The Paraguayan Embassy doesn’t have an official chef, but brought in a home cook from Sydney to work with the Hyatt.

What other Aussie cuisine does Esteban love? The best kangaroo he’s eaten was in Uluru. And, do we need to say it? He adores prawns.

Paraguayan chargé d’affaires Esteban Bedoya… “Gastronomy shows the cultural roots of a country.”

Delhi 6 14 Childers St, Canberra City Phone : 02 6248 7171 Bookings, take-aways & delivery Gluten free, dairy free and mild dishes are easily catered for with meticulous attention

Mon to Fri Lunch: 11:30 am to 2:30 pm Dinner: 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm Saturday & Sunday Lunch: 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm (Exclusive South Indian menu) Dinner: 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm

Latin American Flavours Festival, Hyatt Canberra, until September 22.

Buffet style, $69 a head.

Welcome to our new restaurant in...

CANBERRA CITY

WIN TICKETS TO the Russian National Ballet Theatre’s performance of “Swan Lake” and “Sleeping Beauty” at The Q, Thursday, October 29.

Waiting to be won at…

• Lunch special $9.90 box (weekdays only) • Gluten Free available • Fully licenced & BYO • Dine-in & Take-away • Home Delivery Canberra City, Sydney Building, 111, London Cct • 6262 7594 Lunch Mon – Sat • 11:20 – 2:30 • Dinner Mon – Sun • 5:00 – 10:00 Dickson, Cnr. Badham & Woolley St • 6247 7199 Lunch Tue- Fri 11:30 – 2:30 • Dinner (7 Nights) 5:00 – 10:00

www.twosisterlaothai.com CityNews September 17-23, 2015 23

Curtin Cat Care Luxurious feline accommodation A class of its own Curtin Cat Care is a small family operated cattery, offering unique and specialised feline accommodation. Our over arching philosophy is that all living beings deserve to be treated with respect and sensitivity. We believe that cats are intelligent, beguiling, captivating, impish and lovable.

“The smallest feline is a masterpiece.”

Leonardo da Vinci

Curtin Cat Care offers: • Luxurious fully furnished and temperature controlled units to all its guests • A high quality(Science Diet) menu along with daily playtime in our outdoor enclosures • Over 15 years of experience • Individual love and care to all our guests

www.curtincatcare.com 02 6282 1490 curtincatcare@grapevine.com.au

Curtin Cat Care also provides specialty long-term accommodation at the ARCADIA VILLA, located in Mongarlowe, NSW.

pets&vets

advertising feature

Your woofs, meows, chirps and squeaks need a holiday too. Visit or call us today to book their holiday!

Where the best for pets comes first BE it a fluffy kitten, a loyal dog or a talkative parrot, for many people, pets can seem like family members.

And while we always want the best for our loved ones, why not our furry, feathered or scaly friends?

Here are some great services from people who really care for pets.

Cuddles and care for feline friends CURTIN Cat Care was established in 2001 to provide something unique for people wanting a safe, warm and loving environment for their special feline friend.

Directed by the Montagne family, Alice and daughters Jess and Dindi, Curtin Cat Care goes above and beyond to ensure the customer’s assurance and peace of mind that their furry family friend is happy and well looked after.

Jess says: “Outside daily play, along with a nutritional diet and copious amounts of cuddles will mean your cat goes home happy, healthy and relaxed.”

In 2010, Curtin Cat Care built the Arcadia Villa, specifically designed for long-term feline accommodation.

Arcadia offers an opportunity for cat parents wanting specialised boarding for their cat. Guests staying at the Arcadia Villa have individual rooms and 24-hour access to their own secure courtyard, with all rooms offering extensive views of the picturesque countryside.

“So whether your cat is looking for short-term,

Award-winning vet hospital GUNGAHLIN Veterinary Hospital has been serving the pets of Gungahlin since 1995.

“We started with one vet and one nurse and rented space two hours per week, but we’ve grown with Gungahlin and now 11 small-animal vets, more than 20 nurses and ancillary staff work at our purpose-built hospital,” says practice owner Dr Michael Hayward.

“The hospital is accredited at the highest national level and we have won an award for customer service, too.

“We aim to provide compassionate veterinary care backed by the best equipment and up-to-date science.

“Your pet’s welfare is our first concern and we believe that preventative physical and behavioural medicine will keep your pet happier and healthier for longer.”

Gungahlin Veterinary Hospital, 21 Crinigan Circle, Gungahlin. Call 6242 7276 or visit gungahlinvet.com.au

Where vets leave their pets!

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ CANBERRA PET CARE IS A 5 STAR MOTEL FOR PETS weekend accommodation or a well-deserved break in the country, Curtin Cat Care will ensure they have a home away from home and a holiday to remember,” says Jess.

Curtin Cat Care, 1 Peacock Place, Curtin.

Call 6282 1490 or visit curtincatcare.com

Curtin vet celebrates first anniversary CURTIN Veterinary Clinic will host an open day to celebrate its first anniversary on October 4.

Visitors will have the chance to meet ARF (ACT Rescue and Foster) dogs and ACT rescue cats that are available for adoption, as well as tour the clinic, meet the rangers and the local dog clubs and trainers.

“The event will be held from 11am to 1pm and will have lots going on!” says owner Dr Jana Stevenson.

“Anyone can come along, we will be fundraising Curtin Veterinary Clinic, 31-35 Curtin for ARF and ACT rescue with a sausage sizzle, cake Place. Call 6281 0990 or visit stall, face painting and raffles. curtinvet.com.au “All the dogs and cats available for adoption are desexed and fully vaccinated as well as assessed behaviorally. When someone takes an interest, we assess the people, too, to see if they will suit the animal.”

Curtin Vet Clinic provides full veterinary and surgical care and, in addition to the free walking club, a puppy pre-school for dogs from eight-14 weeks.

• Executive Suites • Ducted gas & infloor heating • Air-conditioning • Doggie & Kitty day care • Yappy hour playtime available • Cuddle time • Large sunny recreation & exercise area • C5 Vacs required • Luxurious accommodations at affordable rates • Bright & cheery atmosphere with impeccable cleanliness • Monitored alarm security • Fire & smoke detection • Medication administered by qualified personnel (as required)

And above all... an emphasis on personal attention to your pet Monday-Friday 8am-5pm • Saturday 8am-12noon • Sunday 3pm-5pm

Phone: 02 6298 1555 FROM SELECTED VETS 143 Wickerslack Lane, Queanbeyan, NSW 2620 Email: info@canberrapetcare.com.au • www.canberrapetcare.com.au FREE PET TAXI

WIN TICKETS… … to see Michael Flatley’s latest ‘Lord of the Dance’

Home-away-from-home for pets “PETS have become very important in people’s lives and we like to create a home-away-from-home for them,” says Canberra Pet Care’s Jenny Greentree.

A family-owned business for 25 years, Canberra Pet Care offers an exclusive concept in animal care through pet-boarding services.

The centre provides a selection of temporary boarding ranging from a pet motel with comfortable beds to luxury suites with TVs and airconditioning, as well as the option

for daily activities such as bush walks, “play time” and “cuddle time”.

“We focus on creating a comfortable and caring atmosphere that the pet and owner is happy with, we believe that the relationship with the client is just as important as with the pet,” Jenny says.

With free pick up and delivery available, all pet accommodation at the centre has monitored alarm security, fire and smoke detection, as well as veterinary services if required.

Canberra Pet Care, 143 Wickerslack Lane, Queanbeyan. Call 6298 1555 or visit canberrapetcare.com.au, enquiries to info@canberrapetcare. com.au

Curtin Veterinary Clinic Extensive range of surgical procedures, digital x-ray, ultrasound and medical work ups In house laboratory Puppy preschool classes and a free walking club (Saturday mornings at 7.30am)

31-35 Curtin Place, Curtin Shops • Phone 6281 0990 www.curtinvet.com.au Follow us on Facebook

Small Animal Care • Full service, purpose built small animal only veterinary hospital • Australian Small Animal Veterinary Association Hospital of Excellence • 11 small animal veterinarians, all nurses Cert. 4 (or in training) • Surgery, medicine, dentistry and behaviour of dogs, cats and other pets • Feline medicine • Digital radiology including dental radiology • In house laboratory • Behaviour service including Puppy Classes and Dog Training (Certificate IV dog

trainer) + behaviour consultations (anxiety, barking, aggression, toileting problems etc) • Pet supplies including Science Diet and Hill’s Prescription Diet foods • Arthritis management – is your pet getting stiff, lame or sore?

• Endocrine diseases – Diabetes, thyroid and adrenal diseases

If your pet needs our help… contact us today 21 Crinigan Circle, Gungahlin | P: 6242 7276 F: 6242 9862 | www.gungahlinvet.com.au CityNews September 17-23, 2015 25

gardening

The mighty power of mulching MULCHING may seem boring, but it’s one of the most important aspects of gardening.

Beetles defoliating your Elm Trees?

As the days warm and evaporation increases, it is time to mulch.

Canberra’s average annual rainfall is 620mm, but the annual evaporation rate is a staggering CALL TERRA SOLARUS FOR A FREE QUOTE - 0414 845 238 1800mm!

Without mulching the soil dries out at an incredible rate.

With no mulching, shallowrooted plants such as azaleas and Edge den Gar ed ais ll/R Wa ing rhododendrons simply cook. u Dry Stack Retain 400x400, 500x500 u Pavers 300x300, While any mulch is better than no mulch, not all mulches are equal.

Some of the traditional ones, such Colours Available as pine bark (or tan bark) take ays u A Range of hw pat and rd rtya Cou ts are welcome u ues forever to break down and are of req cts hite Arc u no benefit to the soil at all. Likewise pine chips, which now come in designer colours of rich red or welcome are ts ues req cts hite Arc plier of the Year u Sup charcoal. Fine eucalyptus chips are A MB u lic Pub to the u Wholesale Prices great for only one use in the garden and that’s making paths. It packs so tightly it prevents water reaching over 50 years ed the plant’s roots. It stops almost all ish abl Est u ts Cast Concrete Produc weed growth.

Brick Paving u Pre , cks Blo ry son Ma u Mulching keeps the ground moist and at a lower temperature ial ial & Resident and reduces run-off. In turn, by e I Commerc Quality Servic reducing the frequency of watering w.binkpavers.com.au ww • 33 270 624 ll• mulching reduces weed growth.

40 Dacre Street Mitche ri 7.30am-4.00pm • Sat 8am-12pm Opening Hours: Mon-F Keep in mind that with drip systems the lines are always placed on top of the soil and under the mulch.

If the mulch has been down for a UK2444-V9.indd 1 24/08/2015 3:46 pm couple of seasons, I recommend lifting all drip lines above the existing mulch before applying a new layer. and very nice If nothing else, it provides a good examination of the system to check joints or pin holes in the lines.

If mulch has been in stock now down for a while and has Huge amounts of

September – October is the best time to have your trees treated.

Stem injections are the most environmentally friendly way to save your Elms.

RHODODENDRONS

AZALEAS

NATIVE PLANTS

FLORIADE

As an example in nature, I took this photo in the NT. Man has had nothing to do with these trees and yet, to retain moisture, they regularly shed leaves to the drip zone, which means that when it does rain moisture is retained for longer periods. We can learn a great deal from nature. become compacted, it’s a good idea to give it a light hoeing to allow rain to penetrate more easily.

MULCH material should be a combination of coarse and fine material to allow good water penetration when it rains. If it is too fine, the mulch becomes hydrophobic and repels water rather than allowing it to reach to the plant roots.

To reduce weed growth, ideally it needs to be at least 75mm thick and, at the same time, kept back from the stems of trees and shrubs to prevent collar rot. Always thoroughly wet the soil before applying mulch. The mulch will break down naturally and from worm activity. Worms are the perfect indicator of a healthy soil.

Finally, the mulch must be economically viable. For a small courtyard garden lucerne, pea

A garden mulched with Canberra Organic Mulch. straw or sugar cane mulch is ideal.

However, on most blocks the cost would be prohibitive.

In all my landscaping projects, I

It’s time for

Lots of spring flowering blossoms and the Nursery looks simply stunning. Well worth a visit.

NEED HELP WITH CRIMINAL OR TRAFFIC LAW? FREE FIRST CONFERENCE

YARRALUMLA Banks Street, Weston Park, Yarralumla • 6281 7373 heritagenursery.com.au /TheHeritageNursery FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… 1 FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… 14/09/2015 FAST NEWS FIRST… UK0346-V30.indd 10:05 FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST…

FAST NEWS FIRST

26 CityNews September 17-23, 2015

am

• Traffic Law • Criminal Defence • Representation (Police Interview/Court) • Bail applications

For your obligation-free first consultation call

6223 2400

recommend Canberra Sand and Gravel’s Organic Mulch. It comprises organic waste put through a large commercial shredder, then composted for a period before passing through the shredder a second time. The resultant charcoal colour suits all plants and provides a natural appearance, particularly in bush gardens.

Jottings…

• Finish planting summerflowering bulbs.

• Prune winter-flowering Camellia sasanqua and a spring feed to encourage next year’s buds.

• If the worst of the frosts are over, citrus can be planted out in a sunny position. It is vitally important to plant into welldrained soil. Water in at planting with Maxicrop Seaweed Plant Nutrient.

• Plant globe artichoke suckers, Jerusalem artichokes tubers, asparagus crowns, lettuce, onions and English spinach seedlings now.

puzzles page Joanne Madeline Moore your week in the stars – September 21-27, 2015

HEALTHY LIVING

General knowledge crossword No. 518

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

Are you stuck in a rut? The stars encourage you to stretch beyond your usual boundaries. Adventure awaits! But if you make rash assumptions about people or situations – then you could end up in hot water. Try to burn off excess energy through sporting activities or outdoor endeavours. Expect the sparks to fly on the weekend, as the Lunar Eclipse fires up relationships. Slow down Rams, otherwise you’re likely to over-react and do or say something that you later regret!

with

Kirra Rankin

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)

It’s time to write, paint, play music or do other activities that draw on the richness of your imaginative world within. Attached Bulls – make sure you jazz up the relationship with some spontaneous romantic gestures. Singles – you could find love via an unexpected introduction from a family member. Be emotionally honest with yourself on the weekend. Feeling guilty about something you did in the past won’t help the current situation. Let bygones be bygones and move on.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Pluto and Mercury retrograde stymie your style, as a project stalls and you may feel as if you’re going nowhere. Don’t give up Gemini! The stars are testing your stamina and persistence, so pick yourself up, take baby steps, and keep on keeping on. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great F. Scott Fitzgerald: “Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat.” Venus encourages you to contribute more of your time and talents to a worthy cause within your local community.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

Cancers can be overly cautious. When it comes to a sudden opportunity, don’t sit on it for too long. A snap decision could turn out surprisingly well! Attached Crabs – it’s time to buy a special gift for your partner. Singles – love and money are linked, so look for a potential partner who is involved in the financial industry, or is marvelous at managing their own money. The Lunar Eclipse activates your work and home zones, so expect professional and/or personal dramas on the weekend.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

Expect some intense encounters with others and for some single Cats – love and travel are linked in unexpected ways. But it’s not a good week to make witty wisecracks or pass on gratuitous gossip, as friends, family and colleagues will be easily offended. So strive to be extra discreet. If you are too hasty on the weekend, then you could find yourself headed for an argument or even an accident. Pace yourself, and take particular care when walking and driving – no distractions!

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)

With Jupiter visiting Virgo (and Mars charging into your sign from Friday until November 12) it’s time to seize the day and get on your way! It’s true that proceedings will be slowed down by Mercury being retrograde (until October 9) but that’s no excuse to put things off indefinitely. Just make sure you allow plenty of extra time, as projects will be slowed down or even delayed. With a back-up plan and plenty of persistence, you can still achieve great things.

Across

3 Name the animal emblem of NSW. 7 What is another term for a panacea?

8 What is a particular type of steamed coffee?

9 Name a largely arboreal, herbivorous Australian marsupial.

10 Which medicine is drawn into the lungs?

11 What is a motorless aeroplane?

14 To have in mind, is to do what?

17 What do we call those persons who have given up work?

18 To guarantee against risk of loss or harm, is to do what?

19 To which class of compound does quinine belong?

20 To join the army, is to do what?

21 What do we call one who devises fashions for decorative patterns and the like?

Down

Solution next week

1 What is an intoxicating, colourless, inflammable liquid?

2 To have lived, is to have done what?

3 Which NSW position did Neville Wran hold from 1976 to 1986?

4 Which term is descriptive of the natural features of land?

5 What is an indefinite portion of a writing, speech, or the like?

6 To be sullied, or blemished, is to be what?

11 What is a wreath of flowers also known as?

12 Which term describes numbers of people admitted at a given time?

13 Which piece of soft material is used to reduce noise?

14 Which type of trading is illegal in some countries?

15 Name a particular prickly plant.

16 That which is the closest is said to be what?

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)

It’s a good week to revise paperwork, revisit old research and tie up loose ends – but avoid starting any new projects until after October 9. Sunday night’s Lunar Eclipse (in Aries) urges you to get the balance right between being assertive and being cooperative. Unresolved problems from the past could also come back to test you. Don’t dither Libra! Make a commitment to resolve these issues once and for all.

Love-at-first-sight is likely for some lucky single Librans.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Are you interested in growing, learning and becoming a better and more mature person? With Saturn moving through your sign for the next two years, it’s the perfect time to eradicate bad habits and re-structure your persona into the updated version you’d prefer. It will take time, energy and discipline, but is well worth the effort. Be inspired by singer/songwriter/poet Leonard Cohen (born on September 21): “Act the way you’d like to be and soon you’ll be the way you act.”

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

This week your talent for criticism (constructive and otherwise) is highlighted, as you critique the efforts of those around you. Or a loved one or work colleague may criticise YOUR performance. They mean well so try not to be offended. Be prepared for some domestic dramas and family fiascos on the weekend, as Sunday night’s Lunar Eclipse stimulates your home zone. Your motto for the week? Maintain your Capricorn equilibrium, keep calm and carry on!

Sometimes, we need to “disconnect to reconnect”.

I’m not suggesting to run off to the mountains, and never look at your computer again. I am suggesting to turn off your phone every now and then. Go for a walk and listen to the birds (a daily 1 hour walk can cut your risk of obesity in half), dig in the garden or listen to people instead of thinking about the recent text message.

Kirra Rankin Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Solution next week

Solutions from last edition Sudoku hard No.158

Crossword No. 517

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2015 Daily astrology updates at twitter.com/JoMadelineMoore

How do you switch off?

1. Have a TV free evening once/twice a week.

2. Set a specific time to check your emails.

Eg: 9-11am and 3-5pm.

3. Keep your phone in the lounge room when you sleep. If you need it for an alarm...buy an alarm clock.

4. Walk regularly without your phone. Logging 3500 steps a day lowers your risk of diabetes by 29%.

5. Leave social media to set times, and log out on weekends. Live YOUR life - don’t read what others are showing off.

6. Try yoga, pilates, tai chi or hydrotherapy 2-3 times a week… to help balance your mind with your body.

How do you disconnect to reconnect?

Resist the urge to obsess over situations and take yourself way too seriously this week Scorpio. Other people may criticise your plans or reject your ideas but try not to take it personally. They have their own problems to deal with so stop brooding and get over it. Inner compulsions and hidden obsessions are likely to go into overdrive on the weekend, as the Super Moon Lunar Eclipse stimulates your unconscious mind. So pace yourself and strive to keep things in perspective.

Mars moves into your love zone on Friday, so being passive aggressive (your specialty) is out, and being proactive is in. But money matters could come to a head later in the week. When it comes to shopping, avoid making expensive impulse purchases that you later regret. Up until October 9, think twice (or thrice) before you buy! If you have financial worries, talk things through with an accountant or money-savvy friend. Perhaps they can point you in the right direction?

Do you have your phone on you 24 hours a day 7 days a week?

Do you check your emails every 5 minutes?

Do you check your phone as soon as you get up?

We are living in a fast paced world, and sometimes we forget to “disconnect”. It’s fatiguing for our brain to constantly be on alert - the brain needs a rest too.

Try these simple tricks:

Sudoku medium No. 159

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)

With Venus and Mars visiting your relationship zone, it will be easier to sort out problems now than at other times. Articulate your expectations, and make sure you understand what others expect from you. Uranus also gives relationships a dash of drama and a sprinkle of spontaneity. Attached Aquarians – has your partnership lost its pizazz? Do something spontaneous with your lover that gets the romantic sparks flying again. Singles – be adventurous and cast your net wide.

How do you disconnect to reconnect?

Phone 6230 5855 8/2 King St, Deakin www.capitalhydrotherapy.com.au CityNews September 17-23, 2015 27