160414 citynews

CEDRIC BRYANT / STAND UP FOR CANBERRA’S NEGLECTED STREET TREES APRIL 14, 2016

Well written, well read

Spooky music Virtuoso Nadia brings ‘ahs’ to the ‘ooos’

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opinion / crisis in the urban forest

Time to stand up for neglected street trees THERE are 600,000 trees lining our parks and streets and almost nothing is being spent on our urban forest, arguably the most valuable asset in the ACT. No formative pruning of new trees is taking place, virtually no pruning or even removal of dangerous trees.

This is all part of Territory and Municipal Services’ “Safe and Sustainable Trees in the Bush Capital” plan, sub-titled “Urban Trees Asset Management Strategy 2005-2022”.

A comprehensive ANU study of Canberra’s street and park trees shows that large numbers of these trees are at the end of their safe life.

They are in serious decline and the study anticipates the situation will “dramatically magnify” in the next 10-20 years. t goes on to say: “Whilst older trees are more costly to prune and maintain current ACT funding is only sufficient to respond to maintenance requests from the public and does not provide a systematic inspection and maintenance of trees”.

Canberra is not a garden city, it is a treed city with an amenity value of Canberra’s street and park trees calculated in 2015 to be around $1.1 billion. Trees are vitally important in

I

Experienced veteran horticulturist and ‘CityNews’ gardening writer CEDRIC BRYANT says it’s time to put Canberra’s neglected street trees first by pruning the Arboretum cash the urban environment to help combat climate change.

And yet, despite this, we continue to pour millions into the National Arboretum at the expense of the urban forest.

In the last couple of years, I understand the ACT government allocated a further $26m over three years to continue planting on a site totally unsuitable for rare exotic trees.

The original figure quoted for the setting up of the Arboretum was $6.4m. How many ratepayers realise that figure is well over $70 million and growing as the trees are dying?

Despite a one-off grant of $20m from the Federal Government can we, as ratepayers, continue to support this dying white elephant?

In a talk to the Horticultural Society of Canberra in about 2003-04, it was indicated that it was estimated 900,000 people would visit the site annually with an entry fee of $20.

This, it was estimated, would make the project largely self-sustaining. So why was the decision made to have free entry resulting in the ratepayers

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of Canberra carrying the can?

It is reported that 1000 trees had died last year and the results of a recent review are soon to be known.

Arboretum patron Jon Stanhope is quoted as saying he hoped “the review into the health of the trees would be released publicly”. We hold our breath! his review should report on more than the health of the trees. It’s time the community was told of the true picture of the total costs, including pruning, the maintenance of the watering system and the massive ongoing cost of mowing etcetera.

One of the first plantings was 850 Wollemi pines from a highly protected area in the Blue Mountains with protective vegetation, good rainfall, virtually no frosts and occasional snow.

Planting on the side of a hill exposed to hot winds, poor soils in the extreme and without adequate watering was suicidal for trees.

ANU Forestry professor, Peter Kanowski, reported at that time “a quarter of these planted the year

T

before were now dead”.

He went on to say “things went off the rails – something has gone wrong” and that the “site was not the world’s best site for growing trees”.

That’s exactly why pine trees were planted in the first place and close together to encourage tall, straight trees for the logging industry, surviving on poor soils with minimal rainfall.

In 2008, Ron Gray, past president of the Horticultural Society of Canberra, and I were upset to discover that the green shadecloth covers were reinstalled after the dead Wollemi were removed.

A worker at the site told us “when people are travelling along the Parkway it would give the appearance that all the trees were still in place and growing”. Gray described the site as a “hospice for trees”. It would appear nothing has changed?

However, many other totally

unsuitable rare trees have been and continue to be planted with little chance of their long-term survival.

In a recent press report veteran forester Peter Marshall said that as a result of “poor management, lack of planning, and overplanting” the entire Arboretum will be dead within 10 years unless drastic action was taken. ot many people realise the entire planting is watered by drip irrigation from numerous storage tanks, with water carted from the Lower Molonglo Treatment Works.

I understand the system has had and is continuing to have constant failures. While artificial watering of new trees is perhaps acceptable, it is unsustainable to have the whole forest of large trees being watered this way.

It is suggested that replacement trees will be planted to fill the gaps.

To keep the concept of the grid patterns this would mean planting in the same holes where the trees died. Not a very good idea!

In summary, we should call a halt to any further planting at the Arboretum and try and keep alive the trees already planted, then direct some of the millions from the Arboretum to properly maintain our existing, most important asset, our urban park and street trees.

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Since 1993: Volume 22, Number 12 19-21 18 20 20 22 23 10 3-11 6 23 16-17

Cover: Nadia Ratsimandresy.

Story Page 19.

Photo by Jacopo Baboni Schilingi.

Well written, well read

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ljhcommercial.com.au CityNews April 14-20, 2016 3

seven days

The political toll of tax dodgers, trams and trains EASILY the biggest story of the week – at least for the ABC, “The Guardian” and the international media – was the stunning revelation of massive tax avoidance and money laundering in the Panama Papers. More than 14,000 politicians, dictators, criminals, billionaires and celebrities, including 800 Australians, had chosen to hide their wealth via the Panama law firm Mossack Fonseca.

The Fairfax media seems to have been shut out of the story, which came from a whistleblower in the law firm. But in the fallout, the Icelandic Prime Minister was forced to resign and the British PM David Cameron was under pressure as a beneficiary. Even BHP Billiton was named as a client.

President Obama said “trillions of dollars” were being lost to the taxman worldwide.

“The problem is that a lot of this stuff is legal,

The once impregnable Barr Government copped serious flak from its ventures into commercial development via the massive Manuka make-over and the light rail initiative. not illegal,” he said. And there’s the rub. With our Coalition government in an election campaign where tax has taken centre stage, the effect could be profound.

THE Turnbull administration is suddenly looking vulnerable. Malcolm’s popularity figures are falling; last week’s public opinion polls had Labor inching ahead. And Leader Bill Shorten showed neat political footwork in calling for a Royal Commission into the banking industry.

LOCALLY, the once impregnable Barr Government copped serious flak from its ventures into commercial development via the massive Manuka make-over and the light rail initiative.

The respected Grattan Institute questioned the light rail business case.

And while the links between Labor figures and the Manuka proposal might be above board, in politics perception is everything.

And it doesn’t look good.

SPEAKING of rail travel, the prospect of a 64-minute ride to Sydney in the very fast train mooted by Planning Minister Mick Gentleman would revolutionise Canberra’s development. The heritage brigade would bust their (steam) boilers at the prospect; but we’ve heard it so many times before. Former Nationals leader John Anderson couldn’t have put it better: The Feds, he said, should either pony up $1 billion or kill the whole thing now. “People are fed up with this half-pregnant stuff.”

SPARE a thought for those poor, desperate Canberra bar owners, crushed by heartless Shane Rattenbury’s decision to call “last drinks” at 3am! And all because the Royal Australasian College of Physicians wants to reduce the “undeniable and substantial” harm caused by alcohol. And the victims of late-night sucker punch attacks would certainly agree.

But apart from that, how could he!

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4 CityNews April 14-20, 2016

dose of dorin

ON the other hand, there was a strong move from The Med Shed’s Matthew Holmes for a medicinal cannabis dispensary. He said “a large number of pain, nausea and seizure sufferers” were forced to break the law to find relief in the soothing balm of marijuana.

Well, maybe so. They’re not exactly crowding Canberra’s magistrates’ courts. But it would at least be a small step towards a more rational drug policy.

FINALLY, tough times for our women’s cricket team getting pipped by the West Indies in the T20 world cup final. Their very modest pay rise from Cricket Australia might have helped morale a little but, like our other women athletes, the Southern Stars aren’t about to call Mossack Fonseca to hide their riches from the taxman. robert@robertmacklin.com

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politics

briefly

Time to shake down the wealthy

Festival of classic boats

AN insult to Australians. This is what Federal Treasurer, Scott Morrison, did when he so vigorously dismissed the call by Bill Shorten for a Royal Commission into the banking sector.

Australians are just not that stupid. Having the Royal Commission into the unions was fine by the Federal Treasurer – but now he argues for not looking at the other side of the coin.

A more sensible criticism is that a banking sector Royal Commission is just too narrow. Any inquiry should go much wider.

Shadow Treasurer Chris Bowen took the first step suggesting a Royal Commission would “look at how widespread instances of illegal and unethical behaviour are in the financial services industry”.

The Liberals let the genie out of the bottle. The John Dyson Heydon “Royal Commission into Trade Union Governance and Corruption” set the political precedent.

What was clear is that this Royal Commission was deliberately limited in scope from examining the mates of the conservative side of politics. Unionists were effectively accepting bribes and cheating their members but who was paying them?

Corruption is corruption. Corruption takes many forms, usually starting with small things and insidiously becoming pervasive. Corruption undermines democratic processes, favours a tiny few over the broad community and divides communities. And the question remains:

A wide-ranging Royal Commission into the financial dealings of wealthy Australians is long overdue. Bankers and developers are a great starting point. how do some developers, bankers, wealthy individuals and businesses inappropriately influence unions, Federal, state and local governments?

Opposition Leader Shorten is right to raise the issue of a Royal Commission into the banking sector and how ironic that Scott Morrison calls it a “political distraction”.

A wide-ranging Royal Commission into the financial dealings of wealthy Australians is long overdue. Bankers and developers are a great starting point. It is most likely that the vast majority will be above board – but, as with the unions, it only takes a small number of bad apples to have a huge impact on the broader community.

Corruption is about lack of fairness. In September, 2014, the Tax Justice Network released a report identifying the community was missing out on around a billion dollars a year thanks to the manipulations of the four largest banks in Australia as they aggressively work to minimise the amount of tax they pay.

The Tax Justice Network identified more than $8 billion in tax avoided when these four were joined by another 19 tax-aggressive companies. As Michael West identified in Fairfax media in June, 2014, the coal mining giant

Glencore had paid just $400 million in tax on an income of $15 billion. Meantime, the Australia Institute identified $17.6 billion of government subsidies and assistance to the mining industry.

Public servants can expect to pay more than a third of their salary in tax.

Companies are allowed to pay less – with corporate tax rates around 30 per cent.

However, many tax-aggressive companies find ways to avoid even paying this amount. Political parties have not held these companies to account. It’s time for a Royal Commission to do just that – give clear guidelines as to what legislation is needed to ensure they stop cheating and pay their fair share.

A Royal Commission must also scrutinise wealthy individuals. The Panama Papers, leaked from law firm Mossack Fonseca, provide the catalyst for a Royal Commission to be extended to wealthy individuals.

The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists has provided a brilliant insight into how so many wealthy

individuals cheat the community. Enough is enough.

The discrepancy between the rich and the poor grows. In 2015, the ABS Household Survey identified the lowest quintile in Australia having a household income of just over $25,000. The highest quintile earns 10 times that amount at just over $260,000. The “trickle-down” argument is regularly put by the conservatives with the most popular form suggesting corporate tax breaks will encourage growth and jobs. A Royal Commission provides the opportunity to examine the “trickle-up” reality that increases the discrepancy between the “haves” and the “have nots”.

Scott Morrison constantly repeats the mantra: “We must live within our means”.

Insulting. Our means would be so much more extensive if we stopped subsidising the mining industry and ensured everyone paid their fair contribution to community well-being.

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

THE Canberra Classic Boatfest, featuring vessels mostly built of wood and all embodying the elegance and craftsmanship of a bygone era, will be held on Lake Burley Griffin during the weekend of April 22-24.

Hosted by the Traditional Boat Squadron of Australia, the festival will be located in and around Lotus Bay and the Canberra Yacht Club. Entry is free and the public is invited to inspect the boats and maybe take a short ride. More information at tradboatsact.com or call 0409 031243.

Violence prevention NOMINATIONS for the 2016 Violence Prevention Awards close on Tuesday, April 26. The awards, formerly known as Partners in Prevention Awards, recognise projects, activities and/ or individuals in relation to the prevention of violence against women and children in the ACT. Nominees will have conducted their activities in one or more of the following areas: media, sports, private sector and education. Entries and information at women.act.gov.au

Doctors in the house AT the Canberra Archaeological Society’s next meeting, Dr Duncan Wright , Dr Peter Dowling and Dr Ash Lenton will discuss the results of last year’s Springbank Island dig, on Lake Burley Griffin, where excavations focused on the area of one of the region’s earliest homesteads. All welcome to Manning Clark Centre, Theatre 6, Bldg 26A, Union Court, ANU, 6pm, on April 20.

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6 CityNews April 14-20, 2016

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MOSSACK Fonseca has leapt from well tended anonymity to the centre of global speculation in the space of a week.

If you’re coming in late, the Panamanian firm, reported to be responsible for five per cent of the global financial services legal industry, has had its email servers hacked and 2.6 TeraBytes of interesting emails disseminated to hundreds of journalists.

As a result, 800 Australians are now reportedly being investigated by the Australian Tax Office.

Intriguingly, Paul Hogan is in the thick of the revelations having demanded the firm stop working with the Swiss bankers who lost millions of his money.

All media outlets are obliged to mention that simply engaging the services of Mossack Fonseca does not in itself represent criminality, and there are many legitimate reasons to move money through offshore companies.

But one of the hallmarks of this case is that so many of the leaked emails make candid mention of the criminality of their clients, or simply name known criminals using their services.

The clients of the firm will be extremely displeased at this devil-may-care attitude, when anyone with a lick of sense would know better than to consign this sort of thing to the unforgivingly public medium of email.

(If you’re going to tell anyone something you’d regret the government knowing about, it’s best done in person and leave

e’re not going to stop the W services and go plant bananas or something” – Jürgen Mossack your mobile phone at home.)

If I were running the morgue in Panama City, I’d be placing an order for extra body bags around now.

Panama, of course, has become a centre for shady financial transactions thanks, in part, to the trade passing through its canal and, in part, thanks to being nice and close to all the cocaine money that needs a home after its traffickers run out of space in the attic for their enormous bags of cash.

There’s a lie we’re frequently told and that our little monkey brains desperately want to believe, that wealthy powerful people could only become that way if they were virtuous.

It brings a lot of comfort. God is in his heaven, there are rules that apply to us all, people who work hard and live right will be rewarded.

Every now and then the facade falls down, but our brains don’t want to contemplate the awful truth too closely.

Even in this case there are some uncomfortable questions as to who hacked the email server.

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briefly

Wide Calf Boots in-store

to believe

Bazaar of many colours

The Center for Public Integrity runs the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), which is co-ordinating the releases.

The CPI is funded, in part, by the Omidyar Network, which in turn pops up in a lot of places. Pierre Omidyar is the billionaire founder of eBay who, amongst many, many other interests, funded the revolutionary groups in the Ukraine that kicked out the pro-Russian government in 2014.

And who is the first figure mentioned in any discussion of the Panama Papers? It’s Vladimir Putin.

(All of the above can be verified with cursory googling, it’s not even secret.)

The real lesson here might be that if you’re engaged in shady, arm’s-length, international financial transactions you don’t want to be using a lawyer who also performs these services for the Russian oligarchy.

Mossack Fonseca’s Australian clients will be wishing they’d gone elsewhere to get their trusts in the British Virgin Islands, however virtuous their reasons might be.

FABRICS, textiles, art and food from many of the countries that make up the Asia Pacific region will feature at a charity bazaar at All Saints Anglican Church, Cowper and Bonney Streets, Ainslie, 10am-3pm, on Saturday, April 16. Entry is free and proceeds from stalls will support the operating costs of the church.

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

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Craft appointment PROJECT director for the National Arboretum, Rachael Coghlan, has been appointed CEO of Craft ACT. She has more than 20 years’ experience working in national cultural institutions and has held senior management roles at the National Museum of Australia, Old Parliament House and the National Portrait Gallery.

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Sharing life over lunch LIFE celebrant Lisa Joy Teasdale will share her adventures with the next lunch meeting of the Gungahlin Day VIEW Club at the Versatile Restaurant, Gold Creek Village, Nicholls, 11.30am, on Wednesday, April 27. The two-course lunch is $35 and interested ladies should book by calling 6230 2892 before noon, Monday, April 25.

Work starts on courts GROUND has been broken on the construction of the ACT’s new law courts in Civic. The first of the two stages involves construction of a new entrance hall and four-storey wing fronting Vernon Circle, which will house six courtrooms, a library, a cafeteria and dedicated juror facilities. The second-stage refurbishment of the existing building will be finished in 2018.

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CityNews April 14-20, 2016 9

letters

grumpy

‘Shameful nonsense’ on safety Sad, sullied city of CHARACTERISING the MoU between UnionsACT and the ACT government as anything other than a pay off in power to union backers (Alex White, CN, April 7) is nonsense.

All safety, industrial, insurance and other issues are robustly addressed legally and transparently in long-established tender procedures.

UnionsACT has responded to their bosses at the CFMEU by trotting out the ever predictable safety line, the universal defence to any criticism. Safety is the single most important issue in our industry. The myth is that the CFMEU helps improve it. Today the CFMEU ACT has neither the expertise nor the credibility to deliver on safety.

In a recent survey of 70 Canberra construction firms, only one said the union had helped with safety. The result is consistent with industry experience of the union flagrantly and almost universally using safety as an industrial weapon.

CFMEU standard “safety” practice is to arrive with half a dozen heavies to shut down a site at a critical point in construction. The only acceptable first response to any legitimate safety concern is to immediately and constructively raise it on site. The fact that the union routinely delays notification and tips off the media ahead of the construction team means they are either deliberately putting people at risk, or the “safety” issue is an invention.

The union also has scant expertise on safety.

One of the more embarrassing revelations of the Trade Union Royal Commission came when an ACT CFMEU official was forced to admit he had not even done the most basic safety training, despite having disrupted sites all over town.

The CFMEU deploys industrial officers (school

teachers, lawyers, etcetera) backed up by muscle not safety experts.

CFMEU’s spurious use of a safety statistics is another case in point. The union uses safety data as a weapon. The rest of the industry understands that reporting safety incidents, no matter how minor, helps deliver safer work sites. A stubbed toe reported today may equate to a fall prevented tomorrow. Yet the CFMEU continues to trot out ridiculous safety stats that discourage honest reporting. This includes the ludicrous claim that MBA ACT members injure 42 construction workers every month. Shameful nonsense.

The remarkable turnaround in safety in the ACT has come with a change of culture. The union’s confrontational approach has failed.

Consultation and collaboration led by real, independent safety experts has helped dramatically improve safety on Canberra’s construction sites. WorkSafe ACT has done an outstanding job in shifting the culture to the point that they are now openly welcomed on work sites for the help they bring in keeping people safe. We’ve got a lot of work left to do, but we are seeing encouraging results.

is dirty, unwelcoming and with no facilities after about 10.30pm.

I had to meet someone who was travelling on the bus that arrived at Jolimont at 10.30pm and the only people inside were the cleaners. I was not allowed inside. There were a few seats outside, but not the ideal situation to have particularly in that area of Civic as it is dark and one does not feel safe.

It is about time that the authorities exercised some common sense and had this place cleaned up and had the facilities available to travellers.

After all, I do not think that people should be expected to wait outside in the depths of winter for arriving passengers.

When the bus terminus was out at the Canberra Rex Hotel, it was a much better option.

Please get this place cleaned up – we are not a third world country.

Sadie, of Pearce

Grateful for hospital care

I HAVE just returned home after a five-week stay in Ward 6A of Canberra Hospital.

Words cannot express my appreciation for Kirk Coningham, executive director, everything that was done for me. All the nursing Master Builders Association of the ACT staff at Ward 6A, the different medical teams involved and the wardsmen and women went above and beyond their duty in caring for me. ​My family and I are so grateful for the professional treatment and warmth towards us all during my time there.

I READ the comments of reader Mary, of Bruce, with interest (Grumpy column, CN, March 24).

Alicia Castilla, Calwell The Jolimont Centre is a disgrace to this city. It

Clean up Jolimont

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

weeds and rubbish “There are the weeds along the sides of the streets, under handrails, at bus stops, under traffic signs… the list is endless,” writes reader, Dian of Kambah.

WE have lived in Canberra since Easter 2000. When we moved here I was inspired, proud maybe of how the streets and parks around Canberra looked.

Paths in the reserves were clean, street sweepers were out and about, there was minimal rubbish laying around and it was picked up fairly quickly if there was indeed any on the sides of the road or in the reserves.

But the longer we’ve lived here, the more the city seems to have fallen into disrepair (don’t even get me started on the disgusting state of the Jolimont Centre!)

I walk my dog seven days a week in the early morning around Kambah. The pathways in the reserves are clogged up with silt and, even though I am not a cyclist, it would be peril for any cyclist riding around that area. There are a lot of broken pathways around as well.

The grass-mowing guys really need to be followed around with other guys with smaller mowers

to finish off the job. There are so many areas where it looks so untidy with seemingly a half-arsed job done. Then there are the weeds along the sides of the streets, under handrails, at bus stops, under traffic signs… the list is endless.

There is rubbish on playing fields, in the deeper bush areas, on the median strips and in the bush areas off to the side.

I was in Dickson the other day and noticed lots of rubbish in the walkway between some shops (like someone had dumped a whole pile of garbage there). I had reason to go back on the weekend and the rubbish was STILL there!

Our beautiful Canberra is looking a lot worse for wear, I’m sorry to say.

Grumpy is an occasional column dedicated purely to things that get up your nose. Readers are invited to vent (no more than 300 words, please) at editor@citynews.com.au

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mum in the city

briefly

When separating parents go to war

Marymead’s monster sale

SUDDENLY, everyone seems to be getting divorced. At least that’s how it seems to me. Friends, colleagues, acquaintances all seem to be splitting up.

Marriage as an institution seems to be on the rocks, and in many cases family life appears to be a logistical nightmare as kids zig zag between one home and another on alternate weekends.

Of course, that’s not quite the reality. Some quick research tells me that Australia’s divorce rate is actually at its lowest since “no-fault” divorce was legislated in 1976.

But the statistics also tell me that people are marrying later, often after first living together for some time, and then divorcing when they are older than was previously the case.

In 2013 the average age of marriage for men was 29.9 years and for women was 28.3. The average age for divorce was 44.8 years for men and 42.3 for women. So, maybe, my impression of a divorce avalanche is largely a consequence of my age cohort.

That said it rarely takes me by surprise when I hear of yet another couple separating. In my parents’ day, divorce was much rarer and, if not exactly a scandal, it was still pretty noteworthy. These days it

GROUND covers, herbs, perennials, shrubs and trees plus books, toys, bric-a-brac and clothes are available at Marymead’s autumn plant and monster garage sale at 255 Goyder Street, Narrabundah, 9am-1pm, on Saturday, May 7. All proceeds to Marymead.

Divorce can become a nightmare for kids when one or another of their parents chooses to play games. seems to be just one of those things, unfortunate but certainly not the end of the world.

I have always believed that unhappy parents are unlikely to make children happy and when a marriage is in serious trouble, and efforts at saving it are to no avail, then people going their separate ways is probably the best for all concerned.

It’s a long time since I first discussed these issues with our kids.

I can’t remember when I first had the “sometimes mummies and daddies need to be apart” talk with my kids, but it was probably when they were in kindergarten.

My children are so used to having friends with more than one family that they sometimes express surprise when they find that one of their friends is actually, like them, living with both parents.

They usually know that this or that friend is only available to come over to play every second weekend because that is the week they spend with their mum or dad.

It’s so commonplace as to be routine, and at least

to an outside observer, the children involved mostly seem pretty accepting of their parents’ divorce and cope well, at least when their parents are being mature about it.

Equally, as an observer, it does appear that divorce can become a nightmare for kids when one or another of their parents chooses to play games and put their interests, grievances or ego ahead of the welfare of their children. Don’t get me wrong, I totally understand that an acrimonious divorce leaves behind a minefield of unexploded ordnance and plenty of walking wounded.

But the experience of far too many friends and acquaintances tells me that children must be the top priority. Of course, deciding what’s best for the kids can be difficult and hotly contested. But, all too often, I’ve observed one or both parents playing dirty and using the kids as emotional pawns in a struggle to extract some form of revenge.

I just don’t get this. Sure, the other half might have done you wrong; sure, you might feel like you deserve more time with the kids or should have more say over what they are doing, but surely what really matters is that kids feel safe, secure, happy and loved.

I know it is easy for me to say, but my strong impression is that as a society we need to put a great deal more emphasis on duty to family and children above self-satisfaction and self-interest.

Not all marriages and relationships last, but families continue even when parents have separated.

Children don’t stop being a primary responsibility and there has to be plenty of give and take to ensure that they have the best chances in life possible. They certainly shouldn’t be collateral damage from their parents’ wars.

SONYA FLADUN

Come dancing...

SYDNEY band Slouch Hats will provide an evening of dancing at the Monaro Folk Society’s “Spirit of Anzac Dance Celebration” at the Canberra Baptist Church Hall, 11 Currie Crescent, Kingston, 8pm-11.30pm, on Saturday, April 30. Called by Don Richmond, all dances will be taught and there is no need to book. Come with or without a partner.

Please bring a plate to share for supper. Neat casual clothes, comfortable smooth-soled flat shoes are advisable. Mention “CityNews” to receive the group entry price.

And dancing…

FOLK Dance Canberra is staging a free event to celebrate Dance Week by demonstrating traditional and modern dances from a variety of countries. All dances will be taught by experienced teachers and no partner is required. A small plate of food to share for afternoon tea would be appreciated. At Folk Dance Canberra Hall, 114 Maitland Street, Hackett, 1.30pm-4.30pm, Saturday, May 7.

Enquiries to 6241 2941 or email folkdancecanberra@gmail.com. More information at folkdancecanberra.org.au

CityNews April 14-20, 2016 11

two wheels

Take two! In the city CANBERRA is the cycling capital of the nation with some of Australia’s finest network of cycle paths and off-road mountain bike trails. We love cycling!

And with the introduction of paid parking in the Parliamentary Triangle, Parkes, Barton, Russell and Acton and everfluctuating petrol prices, more Canberrans have made the money-conscious decision

to switch from four wheels to two.

The addition of more free motorbike and scooter parking spaces is another attraction for people to commute on motorbikes.

“CityNews” meets some of the experts in the “two wheels” trade to help you get on your bike!

Bike warehouse that boasts the lot PUSHYS Bike Warehouse, located in Fyshwick, boasts the biggest range of bicycles and largest retail floor space in the ACT, selling top-brand road, mountain, BMX bikes, scooters and accessories.

Pushys original shop stocks all entry-level, family and kids bikes, electric bikes and scooters, including accessories and apparel.

Next door is Pushys+, a dedicated shop for high-end bikes such as road, mountain, triathlon and cyclocross bikes.

During April, Pushys is offering a “demo deals month” with an array of demonstration bikes that customers can test-ride for up to one day.

Pushys has more than 1400 bikes on display and

demonstration, including eight bikes by elite Italian brand, Pinarello.

Operations manager David Knight says the demodeal month is a unique opportunity.

“Before you decide what kind of enthusiast you are, test ride your new bike, your way during Pushys Demo Deals Month!” he says.

“Our goal is to help our customers find the right bike for them, for the right price. We encourage people to come out, test ride a bike, perhaps a different brand to what you usually ride and do a deal with us.”

Pushys Bike Warehouse, 70 Newcastle Street, Fyshwick.

Visit pushys.com.au or call 6280 4984.

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ce Servi e k a r g •B Tunin vice & r e S • on pensi • Sus 12 CityNews April 14-20, 2016

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that loves all types of bikes Watch out for ‘filtering’ motorcycle riders MOTORCYCLE Riders Association (MRA) president Jen Woods reminds road users to be particularly aware of motorcycle and scooter riders, as they can now filter through slowly-moving or stationary traffic as part of the two-year lane filtering trial.

“It’s all about sharing the road,” she says.

The MRA has been active in Canberra for more than 30 years and works with government to raise the profile and advocate for motorcyclists.

“We ask people to look out for motorcyclists on our roads, be aware and drive accordingly,” says Jen. “We also remind riders that it’s their responsibility to

be visible and take responsibility for their safety.”

The MRA’s annual Blanket Run will be held on Saturday, May 14. Five hundred riders will take part in the trip around Lake Burley Griffin, departing and concluding at Old Parliament House.

Riders are invited to bring new blankets, nonperishable food and donations for the Salvation Army, as part of their support for the community.

For more information about the MRA and upcoming events, visit mraact.org.au

Bruce believes in customers BRUCE Edlington, owner of Bruce’s Motorcycle Repairs, has been servicing and repairing motorcycles in Canberra for more than 30 years.

After completing his apprenticeship with Genge’s Motorcycles in Braddon in the early 1980s, he started his own business in Jamison in 1987.

In 1994, Bruce moved to larger premises in Mitchell.

Over the years, Bruce has built a strong customer base that values the continuity in service he provides.

Bruce and his team are fully qualified mechanics who provide personalised, professional service.

Bruce says he finds that his customers appreciate the chance to discuss their mechanical needs directly with the mechanic working on their bike.

Specialising in Japanese motorcycles and European dirt bikes, Bruce and his team will service and repair all aspects of on-road and dirt bikes including tuning, suspension, tyres, engine rebuilding, brakes and electrical repairs.

Bruce’s is open from 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday.

Bruce’s Motorcycle Repairs, Shop 3, 44-46 Grimwade Street, Mitchell, call 6241 1175.

Bruce Edlington, left, and Charlie Bingley.

38 Collie St Fyshwick • Phone 6282 2444 www.yamahaofcanberra.com.au

DC0633.indd 1

AFTER 30 years in the bicycle trade, David Cook opened Cookies Cycles in Franklin in September.

Cookies Cycles is open six days a week and stocks a wide range of bicycles, skateboards and scooters, as well as parts, accessories and a repair workshop.

Cookies boasts of having Canberra’s largest range of Micro scooters for kids and adults. David says that push-along scooters are not just for children!

“Scooters are a great tool for commuting, to cruise to work or the bus stop with ease,” he says.

“The scooters are lightweight and some of them fold down, making them so convenient.”

Cookies Cycles also stocks Globber scooters that offer an adult version for the young at heart.

Ph: 02 6248 0229 Sandford Street, Mitchell www.motocentral.com.au

Full-service workshop MOTO Central, which has a full-service motorcycle workshop, a wide range of oils, parts and accessories and lots of tyres for on the road and off, specialises in learner-legal motorcycles and scooters.

Based in Mitchell, Moto Central has trained technicians to service most modern motorcycles and scooters.

Owner Don Murray says that they are proud to be Canberra’s newest home to the world’s oldest motorcycle brand, Royal Enfield.

“Since 1901, this original British brand has been making motorcycles, and we are excited to be their new Canberra dealer, stocking and selling Royal Enfield alongside our other leading brands such as Benelli, Sherco, Kymco and CFMoto,” says Don. Don says that Moto Central has recently had a renovation to their showroom and now stocks more accessories, tyres and oils, making it a “one-stop shop” for motorcycle needs in North Canberra.

Moto Central, 12 Sandford Street, Mitchell, call 6162 2660 or visit sales@motocentral.com.au

The annual motorcyclists Blanket Run is being held on Saturday 14 May, Leaving at 10am from Old Parliament House.

Our aim is to provide blankets, non-perishable food and donations to those in our community less well off, via the Salvation Army.

The MRA ACT organises the event and it is well supported by riders in Canberra and surrounds.

11/04/2016 1:53 pm

Motorcycle tyres, servicing and accessories

Cookies Cycles, 227 Flemington Road, Franklin, call 6242 0338.

Come join us on the Blanket Run!

www.MRAACT.org.au email: secretary@mraact.org.au or committee@mraact.org.au Phone: 0448 336 111 Motorcycle Riders Association of the ACT.

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6242 0338 CityNews April 14-20, 2016 13

Anzac Day 2016

special feature

Remembering all who fought and died for us ANZAC Day is the day on which we remember all Australians who served and died in war and on operational service. The spirit of Anzac, with its qualities of courage, mateship, and sacrifice, continues to have meaning and relevance for our sense of national identity.

The morning of April 25, 1915 ON the morning of April 25, 1915, the Anzacs – which stands for Australian and NZ Army Corps – set out to capture the Gallipoli peninsula to open the Dardanelles to the allied navies during World War I. The objective was to capture Constantinople (now Istanbul in Turkey), the capital of the Ottoman Empire, and an ally of Germany.

The Anzacs landed on Gallipoli and met fierce resistance from the Ottoman Turkish defenders.

Their plan to knock Turkey out of the war quickly became a stalemate, and the campaign dragged on for eight months.

At the end of 1915, the allied forces were evacuated. Both sides suffered heavy casualties and endured great hardships. More than 8000 Australian soldiers were killed.

Although the Gallipoli campaign failed in its military objectives, the Australian and NZ actions during the campaign left a powerful legacy for Australians and April 25 became the day that commemorates the spirit and sacrifice of the Anzacs and all Australians who served and were killed in military operations.

This year marks the 101st year of that fateful landing on Gallipoli.

On Anzac Day, the War Memorial, in close cooperation with the Returned and Services League of Australia ACT, will host the Dawn Service – the time of the original landing in Gallipoli – at 5.30am, the National Ceremony featuring a march of past veterans at 10.30am and the Last Post Ceremony at 4.55pm.

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commemorative Ceremony will be held after the Dawn Service at 6.30am at the Aboriginal Memorial plaque on the side of Mount Ainslie.

Tickets to the National Ceremony TICKETS for the Anzac Day National Ceremony can be booked online through the War Memorial’s website at awm.gov.au. Each year the seating for the National Ceremony is primarily allocated for the benefit of the veteran groups participating in the RSL march. Other seating is provided for invited guests, dignitaries, Friends of the Memorial and members of the public.

The Dawn Service THE Dawn Service is a standing ceremony, and so requires no seat bookings. Visitors to the Dawn Service are welcome to occupy the seating put in place for the National Ceremony, or to stand on the Parade Ground.

Anzac Day breakfast Dr Brendan Nelson, Director of the Australian War Memorial will host the annual Anzac Day Breakfast from 6am at the Australian War Memorial.

The breakfast will include an address by Ken Doolan, National President, RSL, and a musical performance by local students John and Elizabeth Dykstra, who have won the ACT Chief Minister’s Anzac Spirit Prize for 2015 and 2016. Tickets are available at $65 by emailing functions@createconsultants.com.au

Getting There ROAD closures will be in place from 3.30am until 1pm on Monday, April 25. This will affect traffic flow around Treloar Crescent, Limestone Avenue, and Anzac Parade.

ACTION Buses will be providing free bus services to and from the Dawn Service and National Ceremony. This year, to assist passengers in preparing their travel to the ceremonies, ACTION has implemented a new registration process, “Register to Ride”.

For information and to register to ride visit action.act.gov.au or call 131710.

Passengers who wear or display their war service medals can ride on any ACTION bus for free during Anzac Day with ACTION buses riding to a Sunday timetable during the public holiday.

Remembering mateship WHILE Anzac Day is set to coincide with the anniversary of the landing in Gallipoli, the day itself is not meant to be a commemoration of the event, but rather the qualities that Australia established for itself there.

On Anzac Day, we recognise the courage, mateship, skill, and perseverance of those who have served, fought and given their lives in the military.

On Anzac Day, we show love, honour and support for those who fought to enable freedom for people all over the world, but were not able to make it home.

Anzac Day events across Canberra

COMMEMORATE ON MONDAY 25TH APRIL AT THE CANBERRA LABOR CLUB All donations collected on behalf of Legacy.

6.30am – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commemorative Service, Aboriginal Memorial Plaque on the side of Mount Ainslie, Australian War Memorial.

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4pm – Brumbies v Crusaders Anzac game, with fundraising supporting Soldier On, GIO Stadium, Bruce.

5.30am – Dawn Service Parade Ground, Australian War Memorial.

FROM 12:00PM The

Sunday, April 24

For the information of members. See reception for full details.

6am – Anzac Day Breakfast, hosted by Dr Brendan Nelson, Australian War Memorial.

10.30am – National Ceremony, Parade Ground, Australian War Memorial.

12pm – 2-Up games begin at Canberra Labor Club with donations collected for Legacy.

1pm – Major shopping centres commence trading until 5pm.

4.55pm – Last Post Ceremony, Australian War Memorial.

HELLENIC CLUB WODEN AND CITY

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Come & see our range of shoes, apparel and nutritional products

DC0634.indd 1

scene / around canberra At the AIDS Action Council fundraiser, Braddon

At The Yak Bookshop opening, Bailey’s Arcade, Civic

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Ngodup Gyaltsen, Lama Choedak and Phuntsok Kunsang

Katherine Barraclough, with Marilyn and Arthur Gray

Migyur Sankhar and Phuntsok Choeden

Madison Rochester and Alison Plevey

Callaghans are pleased to announce Mitesh Patel as the new partner of Financial Planning Mitesh Patel joined Callaghans in 2011 with a Bachelor of Commerce from the Australian National University. He has since completed a Masters in Applied Finance and has recently gained the renowned Certified Financial Planner designation.

Mitesh provides comprehensive financial planning advice and services to clients in areas of investment management, wealth protection, retirement planning and superannuation including Self Managed Super Fund investments.

Mitesh and the financial planning team work closely with clients to build lasting relationships and provide tailored solutions to help them bring together their financial and lifestyle goals through different stages of life and changing economic conditions.

Callaghans are very fortunate to have such an experienced leader in our firm.

Contact Mitesh phone: 02 6256 6000 Email: mitesh.patel@callaghans.com.au Website: www.callaghans.com.au

16 CityNews April 14-20, 2016

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At the Rawspirations High Tea, Deakin

Teah and Suzette Searle

Margit, Valentina and Liia Selg

Belinda Pirjac and Wendy Swan

Veronika and Paulina Rakic

Lorena Dizillo and Gessica Galeotti

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At the Canberra district pinot noir event, Pialligo

Anne Caine, Graeme Rathbone and Trish Munnery

Anselm Cox and Rachel Kesrigan

Tim Kirk, Jim Lumbers, Chief Minister Andrew Barr with David and Sue Carpenter, Brian Schmidt and Chris Carpenter

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CityNews April 14-20, 2016  17

Canberra Confidential Paw sense of humour CRUELTY to animals at the RSPCA? There could be a case around the welfare of one inmate Baxter Sniffalot who has been forced to email bad puns to RSPCA supporters to drum up early bird entries with “PAWsome” discounts to this year’s Million Paws Walk.

“PAWdon me for this email,” writes poor Sniffalot, who also reports that the humans have planned the first ever “Paw-lympic Games” and a Mini-Paws Walk of 1.5km for those old and young paws who can’t handle the regular walk.

CC hopes Sniffalot will be out of the typing pool for the walk starting at Stage 88, Commonwealth Park, from 11am, on Sunday, May 15.

Punny emailer Baxter Sniffalot.

Know something? / confidential@citynews.com.au

share this sausage-driven largesse with the wider community, is credited with having uploaded to YouTube a video of the neighbourly goings on.

However, if you’re interested in seeing how your rates went down at the Kambah Neighbour Day, too late. For reasons unexplained, CC was greeted by an unhappy emoticon and the message: “This video has been removed by the user.”

Have a drink on us!

Right sentiment, wrong battle THE local outpost of the Australian American Association has an invitation flyer doing the rounds at the moment urging members to be at a club we can’t name in Yarralumla for a black-tie dinner on May 6 commemorating the Battle of the Coral Sea. “Every year the Australian American Association nation-wide remembers the enormous sacrifice that was made in early May 1942, during the Battle of the Coral Sea, at memorials, cenotaphs and in the national commemoration at Canberra’s Australian American Memorial,” the invitation intones.

One small problem – the sharp eye of citynews.com.au editor John Griffiths.

He hadn’t see the implied “Coral Sea Battle” illustration they were using on the advertising flyer before. So he went

looking and discovered the photo is actually from the Battle of Midway showing the soon-to-be-sunk USS Yorktown under fire from Japanese dive bombers on June 6, 1942. In Google we trust.

BUT the ACT government’s largesse isn’t limited to suburban fun and snags. In the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Monday your ever-rising rates paid for a two-hour “VIP Cocktail Function” for total strangers attending the national Locate Conference, a two-day gabfest of the spatial and surveying industries of Australia and NZ. “Why is the ACT government spending our tax money on this”, a reader not unreasonably asks?

Fun with the Fluffy crew WHILE the broader ACT community braces to make up the $300-$400 million shortfall in the Mr Fluffy scandal, one might wonder what the Asbestos Taskforce is doing hosting “a day filled with fun, sausages and neighbourly connections” at the “Kambah Neighbour Day” in the Boddington Crescent park on April 2.

More still, our digitally-obsessed government, clearly wanting to

Stuck for words HERE’S an illustration from “Speech Acts”, the latest exhibition by Nicci Haynes, a local artist known for her quirky videos and prints. Here she’s stuck for words.

“No method of conveying information ever seems adequate to translate my firsthand knowledge of the world into words,” she explains.

It’s at the Canberra Contemporary Art Space, corner of London Circuit and Hobart Place, Civic, until May 21.

Snapper’s setback

“YOU would have to be really desperate!” writes a horticultural snout who spotted this truck (selling manure) at the recent Lanyon Plant Fair.

HARD-working mum and talented commercial photographer Belle Garfath was in a peaceful spot in sunny Weston Park on assignment on Sunday afternoon doing a family shoot when the session was interrupted by noisy jeers from a group of hoons in a white station wagon (with a P plate). She returned to her car to find a window smashed and her possessions rifled through. And this in broad daylight.

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arts & entertainment

GOOD DESIGN GOOD SERVICE GOOD FRAMING

Nadia brings ‘ahs’ to the ‘ooos’

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COVER STORY

By Helen Musa

VIRTUOSO on one of the world’s weirdest musical instruments, livewire conversationalist and self-confessed “good girl”, Nadia Ratsimandresy is coming to town from France for a world premiere at the Canberra International Music Festival.

She’ll be performing on the ondes Martenot, an instrument quite possibly never before heard in Canberra, and she can be expected to make waves as she plays in the world premiere of a work by Tasmanian composer Konstantin Koukias.

The ondes Martenot (literally “Martenot waves”), is an early electronic musical instrument invented in 1928 by Frenchman Maurice Martenot. Its unnervingly weird sounds, the “Oooooos” you can hear in movies such as “Mad Max”, “Ghostbusters” and “Lawrence of Arabia” are produced by oscillation in vacuum tubes and yet it looks something like a piano.

That is how nine-year old Ratsimandresy became an “ondiste”. Born in Paris to Madagascan immigrant parents, she was determined to be the perfect Parisian girl.

“When I was young I was very obedient,” she tells “CityNews” by phone from Paris.

“When your parents want you to take piano lessons, you do it.”

But there was a very long waiting list. Luckily the school in suburban Paris was run by Françoise Pellié Murail who, spotting her disappointment, said: “Just come to my class, there is a keyboard and we do some other sounds.”

She was hooked, but not in a tragic way.

“Okay, I was just nine and you just follow what your parents and the teacher say,” she says.

“I discovered the different sounds… it looked like a keyboard, but it’s not a piano, the sound is completely different.”

Little did she realise that she was studying with the partner of top exponent of the ondes Martenot, Tristan Murail, himself disciple of composer Olivier Messiaen, who made the instrument famous.

“But for me at age nine it wasn’t a big deal,” she says.

“I don’t remember thinking it was weird, I needed to connect with it in a very simple way.

“I was a very little girl, so I just practised… it was fun, it was interesting.”

Growing up, she attended the Paris Conserva-

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“I had my hands full playing works that were composed by people who were still alive – just imagine, as if Mozart brings his music and says: ‘Just try it’.”

Since graduating, Ratsimandresy has cofounded the 3D Trio, composed for the performance company Mabel Octobre, developed a solo program of electronic wave music and worked with a group that navigates between rock and contemporary music since 2012. She is now professor of Ondes & Synthesisers at the Regional Conservatoire of Boulogne-Billancourt in west Paris.

Engaging a famous “ondiste” is not a gamble for festival director Roland Peelman. On the contrary, it fits perfectly with the emerging theme of music and migration.

“There is a grand thread,” he says,” of how cultures from different places travelled across the Mediterranean, across the Atlantic and as far as Australia”.

An immigrant himself, Peelman is interested in the countries of immigration and “the palate that

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17/03/2016 The complexities of migration will also be to GJ11962-V10.indd 1PROFESSIONAL, FUN TUITION IN the fore when Ratsimandresy plays in Greek-Australian composer Kon Koukias’ new work “Epirus, An Ancient Voice” as part of a predominantly French program, “Invention Française”. Elsewhere Classes for all: the focus will be transatlantic, with Iberian and Junior & Adult Classes @ Isabella Plains South American music.

Social Dancing Tuesday @ Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah “I didn’t set out to create a grand theme, but that has been the upshot,” he says.

Phone: 02 6296 4009 • Mobile: 0407 066 110 But theme or no theme, the focus for patrons Email: dale_harris@bigpond.com at the 2016 festival will be on luminous musicians, Web: www.dalesballroomdancing.com.au just like Ratsimandresy, who promisingly says: Principal: Dale Harris “I’m not a good girl anymore”.

12:57 pm

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Canberra International Music Festival, April 28-May 8. Nadia Ratsimandresy will appear in the concert “Invention Française,” at the Fitters’ Workshop Kingston on May 4 and in “Meet the Artists”, Ainslie Arts Centre, Braddon, May 5. Bookings and program details at cimf.org.au

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CityNews April 14-20, 2016 19

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Call 6285 6290 or visit www.theq.net.au

MICHAEL Moore loves the US so much that his documentary-making career has shaken America’s tree to collect the unlovely social and ethical fruit that drops from its branches.

He has a sharp eye for things that are not right about his homeland and in “Where To Invade Next” Moore visits several European and Middle Eastern countries to see how they handle social and ethical issues. Slowly, threads of purpose connect their individual solutions in a common factor – how the US deals with those same matters. If that sounds like Public Policy 101, it indeed is. But one with warmth, sympathetic treatment, frequent humour and the realisation that many public policies now flourishing in other countries originated or once were routinely practised in the US. Moore regrets that America has lost its compassionate pioneering social spirit.

His film demonstrates that loss in archival footage that especially targets blacks and women, wounding lower classes in the process. Only one of the foreign countries he visits has a shame needing expiation – Germany. The elderly lady sitting beside me came close to tears (as did I) watching footage from the Holocaust intercut with Moore interviewing students proud about how their curriculum confronts the horror of those times full on and determined never to allow it to arise again.

Moore pushes a barrow. Beside embarrassment that his homeland, having practically invented what he found, has now come so close to abandoning it, the barrow contains a heart-warming optimism.

At Palace Electric

“The Huntsman: Winter’s War” (M)

sundayROAST 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.

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.

WHAT? Three stars for a fairytale? Has this reviewer lost his edge?

No, he hasn’t. Fairytales make more relaxed dramatic demands than serious narrative and their target audience is somewhat younger, or at least younger at heart, than we who demand that films challenge, confront, send messages and any other serious characteristics you care to name. This fairytale, while bog-standard evil versus virtue, offers clichés that somehow don’t seem to matter, disasters that aren’t allowed to ruin outcomes, stoushes that should leave the screen covered in corpses (and occasionally do), characters with sometimes fewer than two dimensions and monsters whose fossilised remains eager paleontologists have yet to discover.

It also has three splendidly handsome female leads: Charlize Theron is Ravenna, a domineering, selfish, cruel Queen; Emily Blunt is Ravenna’s sister Freya, the Ice Queen and Jessica Chastain is Sara, the bonny fighter who once loved Eric the Huntsman and still does despite believing him long dead.

Ah, yes. Eric the Huntsman. You can take the boy out of Australia. But you can never totally take the Australian out of the boy.

Chris Hemsworth has the good fortune to share the final clinch with Sara. But he’s got to be very physical to get that far.

At all cinemas

20 CityNews April 14-20, 2016

Paella with saffron, king prawns, fish, calamari and mussels.

Photo by Andrew Finch

dining

Taste of the Caribbean

By Wendy Johnson

WITH its massive, brightly coloured mural featuring a giant parrot on the outside and pink flamingo décor on the inside, Betti Bravo’s, Kingston Foreshore, takes you to the Caribbean.

I was hankering to hang out there because I love the flavours of this part of the world. They’re exotic, often spicy, bold, and refreshingly different considering that Canberra isn’t anywhere near the glittering, gorgeous Caribbean Sea. Betti Bravo’s is where the Rum Bar lived life for a little while.

Its claim to fame is food that is a “little bit Spanish, a little bit Caribbean and a whole lot of delicious”.

Dishes are designed to share, which is exactly what we did and the portions are pretty generous. For the most part, dishes are also easy to share, which isn’t the case in all places that encourage you to dine this way.

Sadly, our first visit didn’t hit the mark, starting with the white bait, which was cold on arrival and pretty light on the promised chilli.

We couldn’t resist the paella, such a classic Spanish dish ($28). It was a generous serve and the saffron shone through.

The king prawns, fish and calamari glammed matters up, but we were expecting, and didn’t get, a crusty, crunchy, crispy bottom – you know, the kind that makes paella so fun and rewarding. The flavours were great (nice spice), but the dish was slightly wet and most of the mussels were overcooked.

Jerk chicken is one of my absolute all-time fave dishes from the Caribbean and I’ve had it dozens of times on the streets during my travels. Betti Bravo’s serves “Mamas Jerk chicken” and I couldn’t wait for the dish to arrive ($27). The chicken was blackened on top, as it should be, but my pieces definitely weren’t cooked through and so I left them to the side. I was also looking for far more intensity with the flavours, but thoroughly enjoyed the fresh mango salsa.

Determined to bring back tropical memories, I ventured to Betti Bravo’s a second time. The quinoa, fava bean and mint salad with buttermilk dressing ($11) was lovely but needed a bit more seasoning. The baby calamari, with chickpeas, preserved lemon, romesco and chorizo was the best dish I’ve had so far, although my preference was for spicier chorizo.

The service at Betti Bravo’s is friendly and fairly efficient.

Staff need to remember to bring serving utensils so guests can dig into share dishes without any inconvenience.

A good option is the “fiesta menu”, which is $40 a person and needs two or more to share. It’s a nice selection and enables diners to road test a range of tastes. You get even more options with the “escobar menu”, for $55 a person for two or more to share.

Will I be back? Third time lucky, perhaps?

Betti Bravo’s, 6/2 Trevillian Quay, Kingston, lunch and dinner, Tuesday to Sunday. Call 6295 7000.

musical theatre / georgy girl

Bring tissues, warns writer

By Helen Musa

AWARD-winning writer Patrick Edgeworth has long called Australia home. In fact, he had a very particular reason for flying here in 1969 – to be his late brother Ron’s best man when he married Seekers superstar Judith Durham.

Now Edgeworth, famous for the Leo McKern hit “Boswell for the Defence”, but better known as a screenwriter, is back in the stage world again with “Georgy Girl – the Seekers Musical”, his take on the rise and rise of the Australian hit group made up of Durham, Athol Guy, Keith Potger and Bruce Woodley.

Squeaky clean and a bit naff they may have been, but the Seekers scored number one on the UK charts with their first three singles, outselling The Beatles and the Rolling Stones.

No wonder the nostalgia factor has kicked in and Edgeworth is just the writer to tap into it.

“I’m an Australian artist, this is where I got my opportunities,” he tells “CityNews”, explaining that his early work acting in “Homicide” and “Matlock” taught him what a script looked like, so that eventually the late Hector Crawford offered him a job as a screenwriter and an instant change of career.

Writing a musical was something new to him. Durham popped around one Sunday

arts in the city For they will come 10,000 miles… the dancing Scots

By Helen Musa HOOFERS from the National Youth Dance Company of Scotland are travelling 10,000 miles to collaborate and create with Canberra’s Quantum Leap youth dance ensemble. A triple bill of contemporary dance, “Ten Thousand Miles” is the result. At The Q, Queanbeyan, 5pm Sunday, April 17.

Bookings to theq.net.au or 6285 6290.

Hey there... the stage Seekers, from left, Phillip Lowe (as Keith Potger), Pippa Grandison (Judith Durham), Mike McLeish (Bruce Woodley) and Glaston Toft (Athol Guy).

Photo by Jeff Busby and Edgeworth asked: “What do you think, ‘Seekers – the musical?’ and she said: ‘Oh, yes, so long as it’s done properly’.”

He saw Durham talking about “Georgy Girl” on TV and how insecure she had been before stardom. That’s the story, he thought, “it became a Cinderella story about a girl who takes charge of her life”.

“Bring your tissues,” Edgeworth advises, although he is quick to assure me that there are lots of laughs and songs – well, of course there are, with numbers like “The Carnival is Over”, “I’ll Never Find Another You” and “A World of Our Own”, with Bruce Woodley’s famous song “I am Australian” thrown in for a sensational finale.

It’s a nostalgia trip he says, and it’s partly about the ‘60s. It’s about young people who

were nobodies and who went on to become superstars. When they first hit London it was tough but then they discovered the pirate Radio Caroline and shot into the top 40.

Plot wise, there was a problem. In July, 1968, Durham announced she was leaving The Seekers and the group disbanded, so when Edgeworth first came to Australia for the wedding, the carnival was effectively over.

“I couldn’t start writing the script because brother Ron doesn’t come in until 10 minutes before the end – the audience is going to hate it… but then I had the idea of making him the narrator.”

“Georgy Girl – the Seekers Musical”, State Theatre, Sydney, until May 27, bookings to ticketmaster.com.au

IN Bengali, “Mohona” means estuary, but in Canberra it’s a musical trio made up of vocalist Robin Guda, percussionist Andrew Purdam and instrumentalist-composer Nitya Parker, soon to perform “Gentle Rain”, a “Wednesday Lunchtime Live” concert exploring the integration of Eastern and Western music, notably in Parker’s suite “Gentle Rain from Lake Tuggeranong”. At the Wesley Music Centre, 20 National Circuit, Forrest. Entry $5 or donation; no bookings required.

NOW in its 6th year, the You Are Here festival (April 13-17) is dedicated to showcasing emerging and established artists, developing new work, and engaging with unconventional spaces in Canberra’s CBD (including shopfronts, cafes, old nightclubs, bathtubs and even a boat). All events but two are free.

Details at youareherecanberra.com.au PHOTOGRAPHER William Yang is one of Australia’s greatest storytellers whose work takes audiences through his heritage and family relationships using monologues

injected with humour and slide projections of his prolific photographic work. He’ll be here with his show “Blood Links” at the Canberra Theatre’s Courtyard Studio until April 23, bookings to canberratheatrecentre or 6275 2700.

MEGALO Print Studio + Gallery is showcasing the unusual collaborative project “Bonsai Print” in which four bonsai artists and five emerging printmakers have been working together. Trees will be replaced throughout the duration of the show, thus altering the exhibition each week. At 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston, until April 30 (TuesdaySaturday, 9.30am-5pm).

ORIANA Chorale, directed by Peter Young, will commemorate the coming 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death (around April 23) in “How Sweet the Music”, a mix of song and words, with soloists Alan Hicks and Christina Wilson. At University House, 5pm, Sunday, April 17. Bookings via trybooking. com/KOCS AFTER obviously premature rumours of its demise, it was a pleasant surprise to receive an email from Manning Clark House telling of two coming events, a talk by Dr Libby Connors about frontier warrior Dundalli at 6pm, Friday, April 22 and the annual Dymphna Clark Lecture by author Drusilla Modjeska at 6pm, Thursday, April 28. Both at 11 Tasmania Circle, Forrest. More information at 0419 369206.

CHEFS OF CANBERRA FESTIVAL GALA DINNER 28 APRIL 2016 Bookings cimf.org.au

CityNews April 14-20, 2016 21

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• Fill the planting hole with a seaweed plant The 2016 power feed, plant now for winter/spring harvest nutrient to promote root growth and let it drain away.

• If the ground has a high clay content dig the hole as deep as you can, this may only be half the ultimate depth. Fill the hole with a “ground sow now breaker” from a garden centre and let it soak away. If the clay is dense, it could take up to a full day to drain. This is preferable to gypsum, as it soaks deep into the soil.

• Plant the tree or shrub with the soil at the same level as in the original pot (if grafted, make sure the graft is above the soil line). plant now!

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• Make an embankment of soil around the plant to hold at least a bucket of water. This eliminates any air pockets in the soil.

• Mulch around the plant, keeping back from the actual trunk/stem. Apply a bucket of water with a seaweed nutrient once a week for the first few weeks.

• Finally, when planting a hedge, always dig a trench rather than individual holes. The roots will spread sideways with faster growth.

ARGUABLY, the best of all soil improvers and an excellent mulch is leafmould, produced from composting fallen leaves.

One easy way to make leafmould is to construct a round or square cage of chicken wire, at least one metre across and held in place with tomato stakes.

Alternatively, bag up and moisten leaves in black plastic bags. Then loosely tie the bag and make a few holes in it. Store out of the way in the garden and keep until the following autumn. By

YARRALUMLA

Jottings…

• Cyclamen bought as an indoor plant can be planted out in a semi-shady spot in the garden (once flowering has finished), where it will multiply and continue to flower for many years.

• Prune climbing roses.

• Plant garlic by splitting the individual cloves and plant about 5cm-10cm deep, spaced about 15cm-18cm apart, enriched with well-rotted garden organic matter.

• Harvest the last of the pumpkins and squash.

“Cure” them in a warm room for 10 days. Fill the opposite end to the stalk with paraffin wax to keep air out.

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22 CityNews April 14-20, 2016

then, you will have leafmould, which the plants will love.

For a more permanent compost bin, make it out of recycled forklift pallets as I have, as pictured here.

puzzles page Joanne Madeline Moore

General knowledge crossword No. 543

Your week in the stars – April 18-24, 2016

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

Your ruling planet Mars is now in retrograde mode, until June 29. So smart Rams will review, revise and recalibrate, as you temporarily lose your manic momentum but are instead given the chance to reconnect with the gentle lamb within. And are you living in financial fairy-land? With the Full Moon stirring up your money zones, you’re in the mood to splash some cash around. But make sure your bank balance is in a healthy state before you start spending up big.

Rebecca Carter

Active Travel Braddon

As Cuba begins to open its doors further, interest to travel to this fascinating country is reaching its highest levels yet. For such a small country, it has a spirit and life about it that is so enticing. The colours, the rhythm of the music, the outstanding natural beauty and of course the kindness and humour of the Cubans is so unique, it truly is unlike anywhere else on Earth.

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)

This week, the Full Moon revs up your relationship zone, and urges you to get the balance right between individual projects and joint ventures. Bulls are a sensual bunch in the bedroom, and your lusty libido usually burns on a steady flame.

However, sexual satisfaction will be in short supply this week, as sex planet Mars reverses through your intimacy zone. So you need to revise your erotic expectations and enjoy some alternative passions, pastimes and hobbies.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

You may feel as if an important relationship is stalled (or going backwards) as Mars reverses through your partnership zone. It’s full steam ahead one minute, and the brakes are on the next. So aim to be flexible, rather than permanently frustrated.

Communication also becomes complex, when the Full Moon compels you to dig beneath the surface and get to the bottom of an old emotional issue. You’re keen to assist someone but resist the urge to indulge in gratuitous gossip.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

The Scorpio Full Moon signals an intense week, when unresolved issues with a loved one rise to the surface and demand to be addressed. Jealousy, possessiveness or power games could also be cause for concern. Whatever happens, try to step back and view stressful situations from a less personal and more spiritual perspective. Your intuition is certainly switched on big time, as you tune into those around you and uncover important information that others miss.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

It’s time for Cats to be confident, creative and proactive at work. But it’s not a wonderful week to host a family reunion or bring up sensitive childhood issues.

The Full Moon falls in your home zone so be on domestic drama alert! Confiscate all sharp implements and choose your words wisely, as loved ones are liable to make mountains out of molehills. The stars on Friday and Saturday favour travel, study and communication as you socialise with a wide range of fascinating people.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)

Versatile Virgos are clever communicators; pedantic perfectionists; and masters at multi-tasking. But your strict schedule is likely to go haywire this week, as the Full Moon disrupts your communication, travel and transport zones. Don’t let it deter you though! With Jupiter in your sign, strive to be more adventurous, as you grab opportunities with both hands. Be inspired by birthday great Shirley MacLaine: “Don’t be afraid to go out on a limb. It’s where all the fruit is.”

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)

Have you been shopping up a storm when you should have been saving or paying off debt? If the answer is ‘yes’ then you can expect a financial fiasco this week, as the Full Moon highlights money matters. It also brings up issues involving your personal values and/or self-esteem. You’ll find the less you base your core self-worth on money, status, image, physical appearance and unrealistic media expectations of what beauty is, the healthier, happier and calmer you’ll be.

Across 1 Which fin is found on the back of a shark, etc?

8 Name another term for a law-breaker.

9 In law, to send back a prisoner into custody, is to do what?

10 Which branch of mathematics deduces the properties of figures in space?

11 What is the official residence of a sovereign?

12 Name the monetary unit of the Republic of South Africa.

13 What in the US, is a force armed with legal authority?

16 In astronomy, what is either of the two points in an eccentric orbit?

19 In which country is Guantanamo Bay? 21 What is a small firework, used often at Christmas (3,3)?

22 Name another expression for a private feud.

23 Which Chinese island was formerly named Formosa?

24 What is a concluding part added to a literary work?

Solution next week

25 What was the nationality of Hans Christian Andersen?

Down 2 Name a plant of the mint family, used in cookery.

3 Which beetles were regarded as sacred by the ancient Egyptians?

4 What is a different name for a boarder?

5 Name a renowned “triangle”.

6 Who are responsible for aspects of newspaper activities?

7 What are petitions or entreaties also called?

13 What is an advance showing of a film?

14 Which sheet of paper etc, is cut through so as to reproduce letters etc, when colour is rubbed through it?

15 What is a level of command also known as?

17 Name another term for superannuation.

18 What are lines drawn on weather maps?

20 To have lessened, or diminished, is to have done what?

Sudoku hard No. 171

For my whole life, Cuba was a destination that I desperately wanted to experience so when the opportunity arose I took it. I had a month to explore the many regions of this amazing country. It was everything and more than what I ever imagined. I practised my salsa along the cobbled stoned streets of Trinidad, I tried out my Spanish as I ordered a meal in Havana and learned to play the bongos in the old town square of Santiago de Cuba, all memories which I will hold close to my heart forever!

I could not encourage everyone enough to travel to this incredible country as it has something to offer to everyone. Whether you are a history buff, a keen sailor, an outdoor enthusiast, a bird watcher, a musician or you just love to have fun, then plan your trip to Cuba now before everything changes.

The sudden increase of travellers to Cuba is putting pressure on hotels and homestays (casas)so it is essential to book early. Active Travel also encourages travellers to be flexible with dates for your itinerary.

We work with a number of operators to ensure we are able to offer guests the best price and to be able to secure the preferred hotels and services.

Top Tip: Cuba is quite a distance away so why not consider a stopover in Mexico or Peru on the way?

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)

Things will be pretty full-on at Casa Scorpio this week as the Full Moon in your sign increases your magnetism – and your tendency to brooding, obsessive behaviour.

So you need to find appropriate ways to let off steam, and choose challenging projects to channel all your intense energy into. Otherwise you’ll just drive loved ones crazy! And resist the urge to be super sarcastic or possessive – especially on Tuesday and Wednesday. Try a dose of emotional detachment instead.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Sagittarians are impulsive individuals! But spontaneous activity will be replaced by frustrated inertia this week, as Mars (planet of energy and action) reverses through your sign (until June 29). So expect some plans to backfire, while others are put on the back-burner. If you’re smart you’ll slow your motor and cool your heels, as you re-do half-baked projects that you previously hurtled through with hasty abandon.

Remember – good things come to Sadges who wait.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Casa Capricorn is a place where routine is revered, and surprises are unwelcome.

This week life’s complicated, partnerships are unpredictable and the rules are constantly changing, as unresolved relationship difficulties come back to test you.

Maybe you need to simplify your life; cull some of your commitments; and finally give a fair-weather friend the flick? Plus find time to spruce up your living space so it’s more comfortable and beautiful. Fresh flowers are a must!

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Solution next week

Solutions from last edition

Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2016 Daily astrology updates at twitter.com/JoMadelineMoore

Crossword No. 542

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

This week’s Full Moon imbues you with a feeling of intense urgency but gradual, structured modifications are what’s needed at the moment – especially at work.

With slow Saturn and retrograde Mars both in your career zone, it’s definitely not a good time to apply for the promotion of the century or launch a big new business project. Better to direct your Piscean energy towards creative, spiritual or humanitarian pursuits that don’t involve short and stressful deadlines.

Sudoku medium No.171

A full-on Scorpio Full Moon doesn’t throw you Aquarius! You love the rush of energy it brings, so use it to shine a bright spotlight on professional projects and domestic issues. You’re also likely to hear some startling news that makes your ears burn but try to be discreet with any secrets that come your way. If you’re tempted to spread red-hot rumours and gratuitous gossip, then heed the wise words of birthday great, writer Charlotte Bronte: “Look twice before you leap.”

To speak to an experienced travel planner please call

02 6249 6122

askus@activetravel.com.au activetravel.com.au Mode 3, 133 /24 Lonsdale St, Braddon CityNews April 14-20, 2016 23

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