161215 citynews

DECEMBER 15, 2016

Well written, well read

A dark side to Christmas

VED! A S E R ’ U O Y

9 Pages

NICK JENSEN

EA S OF GIFT ID

The year of voting dangerously

MICHAEL MOORE

Why I know it’s time for drug reform

JON STANHOPE

Scary times, so where do we go from here?

ROBERT MACKLIN

Revealed: My top five Canberra eateries

WENDY JOHNSON

Of Christmases past in Canberra

‘CityNews’ wishes all its wonderful readers (naughty and nice) a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year

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NICHOLE OVERALL

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A scary year, so where do we go from here? dose of dorin

Big changes are always scary, and the kind that produced Brexit and a President Donald Trump are especially so.

TWENTY-sixteen has been a big surprise. So many forces coalesced it’s as though a new era began before we realised that the old one had passed.

And while at first glance it’s a little frightening, in the long run, I suspect, it will all turn out for the best.

Big changes are always scary, and the kind that produced Brexit and a President Donald Trump are especially so. But if you thought they signalled a radical turn to the right, with nationalism and protectionism set to replace

an ever more integrated global community, I think your fears are misplaced.

Both events were a reaction to the speed with which globalisation roared ahead unchecked.

On the way it pulled hundreds of millions of our fellow humans out of grinding poverty; and it added immensely to global wealth; but yesterday’s systems weren’t geared to handle it, so the wealthy and influential used their political clout to direct much of it into their own pockets.

The big losers turned out to be the working and middle classes in the developed countries whose jobs were exported to the low-wage countries across the sea. And it was their cry of outrage that gave the world Brexit and President Trump.

Something similar – but much less radical – happened in Australia where the notion of the “fair go” took up much of the slack.

But the majority rule that had marked almost a century of parliamentary governance gave way to a more diverse system of

multi-party coalitions that vary according to the issue of the day.

So, where do we go from here?

ROBERT MACKLIN

Britain will muddle along as it always has – buoyed by dreams of past hopes and glories.

But if the Europeans learn their lesson from Brexit, they will spread their wealth more equitably, not just at home but in the countries that are producing the economic

refugees who are crowding at their borders.

It’s certainly not beyond the leaders of the EU experiment to make those adjustments. And they’ll probably turn out to be beneficial for all concerned.

Donald Trump is a one-off. He reminds me of a grinning 13-year-old kid who has swiped his family’s Harley-Davidson motorbike and taken off down the highway to who knows where. He’ll definitely finish up in a ditch; the only question is how much damage he’ll do to the American political vehicle and its fellow travellers along the way. But once he’s gone wiser heads (of which they have many) will no doubt prevail.

Meantime, that other international bikie, Vladimir Putin, will roar his wheels ever further into the Middle East quicksand… and it couldn’t happen to a nicer guy.

Here in the Lucky Country, we will quietly put a few more eggs into the Chinese basket while trumpeting our devotion to that sacramental American alliance. A stronger China connection is inevitable as I’ve learned from the research and writing of a book on the history of our relations – “Dragon and Kangaroo” – to be published in 2017. And it’s no bad thing.

So, let’s enjoy the spectacle as the rest of the world learns the lessons of 2016, while we quietly keep Australia the best and fairest country on earth. robert@robertmacklin.com

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news

Christmas Eve 5pm Children’s Pageant 11pm Midnight Mass

Christmas inspiration gives John a new start in art

Christmas Day 9am Solemn High Mass

By Danielle Nohra

AROUND this time seven years ago, Christmas was the inspiration that gave a middle-aged, hearingimpaired, autistic man from Canberra an outlet to communicate.

With support from Fraser House staff and Carers ACT, John Beckhouse had his first art exhibition in 2009 named after his favourite drawing, “Magpie Blah! Blah!”

His dad, Wal Beckhouse, says after the exhibition somebody said: “Why doesn’t John use that art to make greeting cards?”

And, with the help of his parents Wal and Pam, John did exactly that, starting an online business featuring his blackand-white art on cards.

Christmas rolled around not long after so John started adding patches of reds and greens to the cards to highlight the holiday season.

John says he loves drawing Christmas cards, but he also makes other cards including birthday and thank-you cards.

“John has drawn since he was very young. His drawings have improved and changed over time,” says Wal. “They used to be quite detailed, but then John had a few psychotic episodes and now they are neat and clean.”

John has become extremely passionate about his cards, making sure they’re absolutely perfect. Pam says he sits with a pencil first and once he has decided what he likes he’ll go over it in ink.

Wal helps with the cutting of the cards and John makes sure he always has a close eye on him so it’s just right.

Both Pam and Wal are delighted with the positivity and self-esteem they see in

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Artist John Beckhouse, centre, with his parents Wal and Pam… “Through his drawings, John communicates his unique and often humorous view of the world around him,” says Pam.

Photo by Danielle Nohra John, through his art.

“He runs around a lot and finds it difficult to sit still but this gives him something to work on,” says Pam. “I can bring a pile of cards and John will pull up a chair and just get into it.

“This all means so much to John, he’s very proud of what he draws and the finished product.”

John’s inspirations come from the world around him, with many things Canberra based shaping his art.

Wal says years ago John watched Santa drive through Canberra handing out presents from the back of a ute and later put this image on to a card.

It’s become quite a successful supplyand-demand business for John.

He has been commissioned to design Christmas and greetings cards for Can-

index Arts & Entertainment 23-25 Canberra Confidential 10 Cinema 24 Dining 25 Gardening 26 Horoscopes 27 Letter 5 News 2-9 Politics 5 Puzzles 27 Sport 8 Wine 24

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berra-based organisations such as ACT and Federal government departments, Canberra Theatre Centre and the Canberra Museum.

Wal says that John’s most recent cards were for the Canberra Symphony Orchestra after watching “Beatles in Symphony”.

He says even though John still faces issues communicating, he has always wanted to have a real job like other people.

“Through his drawings, John communicates his unique and often humorous view of the world around him,” says Pam. “Once John gave me a card with a great big diamond ring on it, it was the best treasure he could ever give us.”

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

CEO: Greg Jones, 0419 418196, greg@citynews.com.au Editor: Ian Meikle, editor@citynews.com.au Journalists: Kate Meikle, kate@citynews.com.au; Danielle Nohra, danielle@citynews.com.au; Kathryn Vukovljak, kathryn@citynews.com.au Arts editor: Helen Musa, 0400 043764, helen@citynews.com.au Photographer: Andrew Finch Advertising manager: Greg Jones, 0419 418196 Senior advertising account executive: David Cusack, 0435 380656 Advertising account executive: Liam Jones, 0400 092095 Sydney ad sales: Ad Sales Connect, 02 9420 1777 Production manager / graphic design: Janet Ewen Graphic designer: Paulette Leo Proof reader: Glenda Anderson Accounts manager: Bethany Freeman-Chandler accounts@citynews.com.au

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CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017 3

religion

BE AMAZED BY OUR

Dark side to Christmas

MASSIVE RANGE

“When Herod realised that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under…”

–Matthew 2:16

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THIS Biblical passage is one of the lesser known parts of the Christmas story. There are no carols sung about this event, no symbolic decorations made and I have never seen a panorama next to the Christmas tree of soldiers ripping babies from their mothers’ arms.

We prefer to focus on the positive message that Christmas brings. However, we must remember that the joy is always born out of the hopelessness of real and present evil.

The passage continues on and we see the Holy family fleeing to Egypt with the new-born babe to protect Him from Herod. They travel 500kms on foot and only return once the threat is over.

This Christmas there are many families following this similar path to refuge as they head west out of the Middle East. Only now it is not just children under two and the crimes of Herod’s time seem to pale in comparison to the current situation. Whole communities in Iraq and Syria are being targetted, with mass murder, torture, systematic rape and sexual enslavement being widely reported. This is happening right now, while we put up coloured lights and plan our Christmas feasts.

ISIS has been carrying out this “campaign” against Christians, Yazidis, Shias and other minorities for two years and there is only one word for it: Genocide.

The UN Commission of Inquiry, the US Congress,

European Parliament and UK House of Commons have all recognised and used this word.

Australia has yet to join the chorus of condemnation, but it is currently before the House of Representatives for debate.

So, why bring such a dark and depressing message at what usually is a time of celebration and forgetting of troubles? Well, because this is what the Christmas story is actually about: God enters our world of evil and despair and walks among it.

Ultimately, he experiences the full force of torture and suffering Himself, only to overcome and bring the fullest light where there was only darkness before.

Quite simply, this is what we are also called to. The generous provision we have received in our lives is not just luck, but rather carries with it a responsibility. If we neglect this aspect of Christmas, the imperative to seek out and serve those who are struggling and facing evil, then our reflections in the shiny Christmas baubles will not be the only distorted image.

Sign the petition at acl.org.au/stopthegenocide Volunteer or donate to Missionworx (drop-in centre and food hampers) at 6147 9049 or missionworx.org.au Nick Jensen is the director of the Lachlan Macquarie Institute, which helps develop leaders in public policy (lmi.org.au).

NICK JENSEN

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politics

The year the world voted for disenchantment Disenchantment with politics has been growing steadily. In Australia, democratic satisfaction under John Howard in 2007 has dropped steadily from 85.6 per cent to a low of 58 per cent under Malcolm Turnbull.

THE year of Brexit, the Trump victory, the return of Pauline Hanson and the rise of the hard right in politics; 2016 should provide an incentive for rethinking politics locally, nationally and internationally as the rich get richer and the poor poorer.

Commentators on the international democratic trends examine “political elites”, but there is not enough focus on the amount of money required to get elected, how it is obtained and its impact on democracy.

Disenchantment with politics has been growing steadily. In Australia, democratic satisfaction under John Howard in 2007 has dropped steadily from 85.6 per cent to a low of 58 per cent under Malcolm Turnbull in March.

The percentage of Australians who always vote for the same party has dropped over the last 50 years from 72 per cent to 37 per cent. The Investor State Dispute Mechanism in the Trans Pacific Partnership and other international treaties along with proposed corporate tax breaks illustrate the growing power of international corporations.

Local MP Andrew Leigh published the book “Battlers and Billionaires” in 2013 describing the story of inequality in Australia. A professor of economics at ANU before entering Federal politics, Leigh brings an important perspective not just to the Labor Party, but to the Parliament as a whole. Even so, the government’s rhetoric, budgets and outcomes continue to increase disparity.

In the US, the American dream of hard work meaning prosperity has always been a myth for most. However, Donald Trump has tapped into the dissatisfaction of middle-America feeling cheated. He has provided hope by increasing a social divide in making scapegoats of marginalised groups such as Muslims and Hispanics.

“Bloomberg Politics” reported that Hillary Clinton’s campaign raised a total of $US1.2 billion. That’s a magnitude of favours owed as is illustrated by the observation in the report that this “included a small army of wealthy donors

who wrote seven-figure cheques”. Trump raised around $650 million including $66 million of his own money. However, he also raised around $280 million from donors who contributed $200 or less.

A fair system of taxation will remain a pipe dream in Australia while parties remain dependent on large donations and the system of political donations remains murky and is not timely.

There are a number of tools available to avoid fully declaring donations. Support for large corporations is framed in one of the conservatives’ favourite term of “trickle-down” economics so corporate taxes can be cut at the same time as reducing expenditure on welfare. No wonder ordinary people are disenchanted.

The snake-oil salesmen are there to fill the gap. With the major parties on the nose, the success of One Nation, Family First and the Liberal Democrats should not be a surprise.

A little more surprising is that the Greens have not been able to tap into the anti-government sentiment in the same way as the Nick Xenophon Team in SA. The Senate outcome reflects voters looking for a solution and choosing what they see as the least-worst alternative.

There are some bright spots challenging the rise of the hard right in politics. The defeat of the hard right Norbert Hofer in Austria by former Greens leader Alexander Van der Bellen is

one recent example. In the ACT, the Labor government under Andrew Barr secured a surprise victory with the support of the Greens to defeat a Liberal Party that has been swinging to the right.

However, even though the moderate Malcolm Turnbull has been returned to power, he is looking more and more like the soft front for hard-right members such as Cory Bernardi and George Christensen.

As just one example, the Prime Minister has rejected the views of his own chief scientist Alan Finkel and Environment and Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg after Bernardi slammed the idea as “one of the dumbest things I’ve ever heard. It is not in the Australian national interest for the government to chase policies that ingratiate it with the Greens”.

No wonder Australians are becoming more disenchanted with the democratic system, with politics and with politicians. Perhaps things will change for the better in 2017… but don’t hold your breath.

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

letter / greyhounds

‘Unblemished’ welfare record THE CEO of the RSPCA ACT, Tammy Ven Dange, has continued her campaign of lies and deceit in “CityNews” (letters, December 1, “Watching out for greyhounds”) by saying animal welfare in ACT greyhound racing is a concern.

The fact is that for the entire 37 years of the Canberra Greyhound Racing Club’s (CGRC) operations, the club has built an unblemished animal welfare record.

While Ms Ven Dange used her letter to make claims designed to alarm readers, the facts do not support her.

Specifically, her claim that racing is “self-regulated” is wrong. The CGRC must adhere to ACT laws, including the Racing and Gaming Act and Animal Welfare legislation. The ACT has two Ministers directly responsible for the CGRC’s operations. The CGRC is also governed by a lease with the Commonwealth and an MOU with the ACT government.

The CGRC also dedicates its entire government funding to animal welfare and integrity measures. Her claim that only 10 per cent is directed this way is false.

Her suggestions that transparency is not of the utmost importance are defamatory. Swabs are conducted at every single race meet, with all reports published online. Every member of the public is able to access reports via a login, available from the CGRC upon request. The club also publishes other information above and beyond that required by regulation.

Animal welfare is the CGRC’s top priority. That is why a vet is on site for every race meet. The vet inspects every greyhound thoroughly and individually, and has the final say on any matter, despite Ms Ven Dange’s claims otherwise.

Finally, all readers should know the CGRC has made multiple approaches to the RSPCA in the last two years, including personally to Ms Ven Dange, to work on animalwelfare matters. The CGRC has numerous animal-welfare projects that we hoped the RSPCA could advise on, including a socialisation yard available to all members of the public at no cost. She refused to even meet.

The CGRC also asked the RSPCA for its support for our long-standing policy position of raising animal-cruelty penalties to the toughest in Australia. It fell on deaf ears.

By contrast, other RSPCA state branches around Australia are actively and positively working on reform and animal welfare with other greyhound racing bodies.

After more than a year of Ms Ven Dange running a dishonest campaign against the greyhound racing community in Canberra, we understand public sentiment may be against us.

We love our pets and our pets love to run. Nearly 50 local jobs and 30 Canberra trainers are devoted to nurturing beautiful and gentle dogs in a safe training and racing environment. All of us have a zero tolerance to any animal cruelty.

Think about it. Our greyhounds are basically professional athletes. That’s how we treat them. How many suburban pets are seen by a vet on a more than weekly basis and have regular inspections and strict regulations governing everything from their sleeping space to how much they weigh?

The CGRC has an open-invitation policy. Anyone who wishes to get the facts, inspect our top-class facilities or witness welfare and integrity measures first hand. You can organise a tour or even just drop in.

We have made this offer to Ms Ven Dange, but she is yet to accept. It suggests to me she is more concerned about raising her profile than she is about raising animal welfare standards.

Alan Tutt, president, Canberra Greyhound Racing Club

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opinion / drugs

Handing out needles, I know it’s time for reform ON October 24, I attended and spoke at the 21st annual remembrance ceremony in Weston Park for people from Canberra who have lost their lives to illicit drugs.

In a touching and deeply moving ceremony more than 250 names, submitted by family or friends, of people who had died from drug use, were read out. The ceremony is organised by Families and Friends for Drug Law Reform.

In an interesting if unfortunate coincidence, on the same day as the remembrance ceremony local media reported the outcomes of the “Dob in a Dealer” campaign conducted in Canberra over the previous six months by Crime Stoppers.

Crime Stoppers reported that as a result of the campaign there had been a 40 per cent increase in drug related tip-offs to the police. There were a total of 525 drug-related calls during the campaign with 129 tip-offs in September alone.

ACT Policing was reported as

The most striking thing about the people to whom I provide needles is their individuality and their normalcy.

I don’t know who they are, but I can tell you they each have a face. advising that the tip-offs had “significant operational outcomes” and that “every little bit of information can be significantly important in building a picture that assists in reducing illicit drugs within our community”.

It would be interesting, one month after the end of the Dob in a Dealer campaign, to see evidence of the actual impact it had on the availability of illicit drugs and the level of drug use in Canberra.

The reality is that while there may have been a hiccup in supply, there was most likely no real change in either use or availability of illicit drugs in Canberra as a result of this campaign or indeed any other policing or drug-related enforcement activity. There are a range of possible sources of data that would reveal the effectiveness of a criminal law response to illicit drug use.

JON STANHOPE

I have, for example, since accepting employment at Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health Service, where I work as an adviser, undertaken the mandatory training and been authorised to supply syringes as part of the ACT Needle and Syringe Program.

I accordingly regularly assist in the supply of needles at the Winnunga needle exchange and, while I have not analysed the data, my observation is that there was over the six months of the Dob in a Dealer campaign absolutely no effect on the number of needles distributed to drug users.

It is in response to the nature of drug addiction, reinforced by the experience of living with and supporting a drug-addicted family member or friend, that Families and Friends for Drug Law Reform has developed a detailed evidence-based drug law reform agenda that, as a central tenet, requires acceptance that drug-law policies founded on prohibition have failed. I agree.

The criminalisation of drug use has led to the conflating of community

Richard Di Natale… to be congratulated. antipathy towards drug dealers to the stigmatising of drug users – people suffering an illness and deserving of our support and compassion. The demonisation of drug dealers, while understandable, does nevertheless also impact negatively on community attitudes towards drug users and most particularly people addicted to illicit drugs.

The current system has not only led to the cruel stigmatisation and marginalisation of drug users, but in many instances undoubtedly contributed to their death.

Richard Di Natale and the Australian Greens are to be congratulated for their leadership on drug law reform.

Leader Di Natale’s announcement

that the Greens have adopted a policy position in favour of the decriminalisation of drugs in Australia has the capacity to be a catalyst for a national conversation that could encourage both the Labor and Liberal Parties to embrace change.

The disappointing and rather ideological opposition to the Greens position from the president of the AMA does not bode well. However, more encouraging was the concession by President Barack Obama, in support of Richard Di Natale, that marijuana should be regulated in the same way as tobacco and alcohol.

I mentioned earlier that I do some work in a needle exchange. The most striking thing about the people to whom I provide needles is their individuality and their normalcy.

They are Canberrans, and like all of us, with issues and challenges, trying in their own way to make it through.

They could be your mother or father, uncle or aunt, perhaps even your son or daughter. They might be a friend of yours or a close neighbour. I don’t know who they are, but I can tell you they each have a face.

Jon Stanhope was Chief Minister from 2001 to 2011 and represented Ginninderra for the Labor Party from 1998. He is the only chief minister to have governed with a majority in the Assembly.

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yesterdays / Christmas in Canberra

Strong Maurice’s Christmas came in lashes ASKED what he’d like for Christmas, I’m fairly sure convict and hutkeeper at Lanyon, Maurice Welsh, would have been disinclined to suggest 50 or so lashes to go on with.

Nonetheless, on December 25 in the mid-1800s, Welsh was said to have been the last man to receive the punishment in this area in what is today the grounds of Government House at Yarralumla.

Referred to as “the strongest man in County Murray”, it seems Welsh was regularly tied to the “flogging tree” for the most minor of indiscretions, and while the year of that final whipping isn’t clear, he did die on another holiday: Easter of 1874, on the Queanbeyan Racecourse (yes, the record doesn’t suggest “at”), “vile firewater” the cause.

Have no fear though, mortified modern Canberrans, because after the nation’s capital was properly resurrected, the local festive season became a much more civilised affair, indeed almost something straight out of Jimmy Stewart’s yuletide treasure, “It’s a Wonderful Life”.

It was 1926 before the “City of Sunshine, Flowers and Gladness” (now there’s a reputation to live by), was reported as having its “first real Christmas” – an acknowledgement that while that original stone had been laid 13 years earlier, not much else had taken place in-between – and in the “Federal Capital Pioneer Magazine”, it was described thus: “Can older nations picture Christmas at Canberra? The golden sunshine, the blue skies, the rare crisp, life-giving atmosphere, the rustling of Cotter’s waters, the green trees, the wealth of brilliant flowers in homes and streets painting the city with kaleidoscopic beauty?”

Well, who wouldn’t want to spend the holiday period in a region as marvel-

A Canberra family on Christmas morning, 1962. lous – and bracing – as this? (And here I am, kindly, overlooking the times it was estimated that up to a third of the city’s population left town).

As the Christmas bells rang out with each passing year the burgeoning city would be abuzz with activities to entice all those newly arrived civil servants and their families: carols on the lawns of Parliament House; gift shopping at JB Young, the largest secondary department store chain in the country (and started over the border in Queanbeyan, but I digress); swimming and picnics at Cotter Reserve; parties with “an international accent” organised for children of diplomatic officials in order that they might be entertained with traditional Aussie festivities and, at the other end of the spectrum, ever-so-slightly sombre luncheons for the local senior citizens, all emerging as a celebration of Canberra’s unique – and yes, slightly quirky – personality.

And come the big day itself, the marvel of 1950s photography reveals that in the flurry of early-morning present unwrapping, Mother and Father would already be fully attired in heels and brooch, necktie and appropriately shined shoes, while little Johnny was thoroughly

delighted with his hand-made wooden train, completely befitting the description of Santa’s visit here as “one more port of call in the great and glorious British Empire”.

So, with such a pedigree, what can we expect for Christmas in Canberra 2016 style? Might we take something from those grand times of old?

I guess one thing we can be thankful for is that the upstanding Sir Terence Aubrey Murray, first Member for the County of Murray in the first Legislative Council of 1843 and owner of Yarralumla, was merciful enough to do away with that particularly nasty tree that was a symbol of anything but the spirit of Christmas.

And with that in mind, spare a thought for poor Maurice when the day comes around and the very best of the season of peace and goodwill to you all.

Picnickers at the Cotter Reserve on Boxing Day, 1958. Photo by W Pedersen

CORRECTION In the previous Yesterday’s column, the ACT was described as having been founded in 1938 as the Australian Federal Territory, instead of the Australian Capital Territory.

This was a sub-editorial error.

NICHOLE OVERALL

Nichole Overall is a Queanbeyanbased journalist and social historian with a predilection for bringing to light the unsolved mysteries and conundrums of the Capital Region.

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The YMCA’s Christmas Eve Carols by Candlelight on the lawns of the then Parliament House in 1958.

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sport

A few of my favourite things…

IT’S close to the end of another year of impressive performances by sportspeople and supporters.

Here’s my year in review with a few of my favourite memories.

In a year of many highlights in Canberra sport, it’s hard to go past the community spirit generated by the Viking Clap at Canberra Stadium. Its value was noted well beyond the confines of the ACT. As the Raiders launched their finals campaign, the Viking Clap involved supporters like never before at the stadium.

The crowd participation, of course, was the entrée to the performance of the team with its breathtaking attack; the sense of pride generated within Canberra cannot be underestimated.

Another highlight was the work undertaken away from the playing field by the Raiders. Much of it was spontaneous, such as Blake Austin giving a lift to a fan on the way to Bruce.

Special mention though needs to go to forward Sia Soliola, he has been volunteering washing dishes, sweeping floors and serving meals Blake Austin.

In a year of many highlights in Canberra sport, it’s hard to go past the community spirit generated by the Viking Clap at Canberra Stadium. for the homeless and disadvantaged at the Early Morning Centre during the off season. This comes on top of his work mentoring youth for Menslink.

I once asked Sia whether he felt a need to volunteer and do community work because of the perception of the privileged life of a professional footballer. He said he didn’t feel a need to do it, but it was more about him wanting to do it. I can’t help but really admire the character of this man.

It caps off a great year for the Raiders off the field when taking into account Alan Tongue’s award as the ACT Australian of the Year with coach Ricky Stuart a finalist. Both have demonstrated a great commitment to those within our community who can do with support.

The performance of Canberra cyclist Mathew Hayman in winning the Paris-Roubaix race was another highlight. The win is all the more impressive as this is said to be the most gruelling

one-day race in the world. The fact he achieved this so soon after breaking his arm was a remarkable effort.

Rower Kim Brennan winning gold in Rio may have appeared a foregone conclusion at the start of the year, after all, she was unbeaten in two Kim Brennan. years.

But the unthinkable almost happened in the heats in the rough conditions in Rio. She struggled to get her boat, which was filling with water, to the line in finishing a distant third. Kim then went on to win gold in the final of the women’s single sculls becoming the first Australian to do so in this event.

There was also the performance of Canberra Olympic FC in making it through to the semifinals of the FFA Cup before going down to Sydney FC. In predicting what might happen next year, our thoughts and prayers are with Brumbies co-captain Christian Lealiifano as he continues his battle with leukaemia. There is hope that the 2017 season for the Brumbies will be filled with on-field highlights rather than off-field issues.

I hope Nick Kyrgios takes advantage of his enormous talent. There is also optimism for next year following the performance so far this season from the Capitals, Canberra United and the Cavalry against teams with far greater resources.

I’m looking forward to another great year in Canberra sport.

solutions Solutions from Page 27 puzzles Crossword No. 578

healthy eating Secrets to enjoy Christmas with no regrets Avoid over indulging this Christmas and prevent the need to loosen your belt with these strategies: Dodge those nibbles…

OFTEN we overdo the nibbles and dips before we even sit down to eat a main meal. Canapés, hors d’oeuvres, nuts and pre-dinner chips with dip are often high in calories and can make it hard to recognise fullness.

• Go for vegetable-based hors d’oeuvres. These are likely to be lower in energy and a better source of nutrition.

• View all that is on offer. That way you can make an informed choice on which one or two foods you really want to try.

• Depending on how big the canapés are, decide how many you think you will need before you start eating. Then keep a toothpick or napkin from each to keep track of your food intake.

Beware of the booze…

HAVING wine, beer and cocktails at every party or gathering is an easy way to drink extra calories. When we drink, we are also much more likely to nibble on foods unconsciously. Being careful with your alcohol intake is one of the simplest ways to avoid a Christmas “pud”.

• Map out the social events and prioritise the events at which you want to drink alcohol and the ones you don’t.

• Alternate alcoholic drinks with something low calorie that will hit the bubbly beverage spot. Try an infused mineral water, which contains no added sugars or artificial sweeteners.

• Put your non-alcoholic beverage in a nice glass. You may be surprised that the act of drinking out of a wine glass acts as an effective substitute for wine.

Enjoy the delicacies, but…

CHRISTMAS foods are special because we only have them once a year. Enjoy these foods by tasting and savoring every mouthful, not by over eating.

• Take a couple of deep breaths before you eat. This can help you to be present to enjoy the food mindfully.

• Put the knife and fork down between mouthfuls. Wait until you have finished one morsel before getting the next one ready.

Freshen it up...

FIND balance by pairing special Christmas foods with fresh fruits or vegetables. You are more likely to feel satisfied and you boost the nutrition of an otherwise empty calorie snack.

• Try to make half of the plate vegetables at all your Christmas meals.

• Take a plate of fresh fruit and vegetables to Christmas morning teas and barbecues.

• Add a side of vegetables when dining out.

Get back to routine…

Sudoku medium No.189

IT’S easy for the holiday eating and drinking to roll into the New Year. But the sooner you get back to your usual pattern of eating, the lower the chances of Christmas kilos hanging around.

• Save food gifts for special occasions later in the year rather than trying to “get rid of them” by overindulging.

• Plan meals between Christmas and New Year that can be strategic with using up leftovers.

• Refocus on your fitness goals and getting into an exercise routine.

Most importantly, go into Christmas with a clear (and realistic) idea of how you want to come out the other side.

The key is to make conscious decisions so that you can regret nothing.

Clare Wolski is a dietitian at The Healthy Eating Hub, call 6174 4663.

8 CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017

CLARE WOLSKI

news / popular on citynews.com.au

The year’s top five clicks 2. Designer Robert Foster, dies in car crash JULY: The death of local innovator and designer, Robert Foster, involved in a two-car collision generated immense sadness in the Canberra arts community.

1. Civic one-hit punch on New Year’s Eve JANUARY: Anger was sparked in the comments section following the story about a “coward punch” where a male was distracted in conversation before being unexpectedly struck on the side of the head leaving the man unconscious in Civic early New Year’s morning.

fair trading

4. Canberra remembers Iain Stokes – ‘Scrubbie’

Your retail rights when the present is wrong

5. Yuki found safe and well

AS consumers, we are surrounded by a wealth of possibilities, particularly around Christmas when the shops are full of tempting presents.

Many of us spend a lot of time and hardearned cash trying to get just the right present and, of course, we sometimes get it wrong, be it buying at one of our region’s excellent shopping centres or purchasing online.

But what happens if you, or someone you know, has bought a gift, thoughtfully kept the receipt and then wants to return it?

Well, you might be surprised to learn that refunds are not an automatic right. Of course, you can always exchange the item but you can’t demand a refund if the present is the wrong size, colour or if you change your mind.

Some retailers will give a refund but, remember, it is at their discretion.

It’s a different matter if the consumer guarantee is not met but, in reality, what does this mean?

Firstly, the business you buy the product from guarantees that it is of acceptable quality and is fit for a specific purpose (a cricket bat, for example, should not break after hitting your first boundary). The business must also provide an accurate description of the product and the purchased item must be at least equivalent to the one displayed.

You can find out more about goods and services guarantees at accesscanberra.act.gov.au/app/home#/ fairtrading

Toy safety PARENTS should pay particular attention to the “FiveS’s” of toy safety, which are: • Size: the smaller the child the bigger the toy (anything the size of a ping pong ball is too small for a child under three).

You can always exchange the item, but you can’t demand a refund if the present is the wrong size, colour or if you change your mind.

JANUARY: Canberra mourned the loss of Iain Stokes, the iconic car-window cleaner who worked on the Northbourne Avenue and the Anthill Street intersection.

3. Police seek help finding late-night Civic thugs SEPTEMBER: Another assault, late at night this time, and on Mort Street saw a man talking on his phone followed and then dragged on to the ground by two other males who repeatedly kicked and punched him.

JANUARY: Many were relieved to hear that Evatt woman, Yuki Motomura, was found safe and well days after police declared her a missing person in January.

•S urface: make sure all finishes are non-toxic, which should be stated on the packaging.

• Strings: anything over 30cm is a strangulation hazard for a small child and should be removed.

• Supervision: nothing replaces close supervision.

Gift cards IF, like me, you have a difficult relative to buy a present for then a gift card can be a lifesaver, although they do come with some considerations.

The most important is to check if the gift card has an expiry date or terms and conditions that might make it difficult to use, such as exclusions or a spending limit. And can you get change if you do not spend the full amount?

Keep in mind that gift cards can be hard to replace if lost or stolen and it is wise to treat them as you would cash.

So, in the hope that these simple tips will make the big day less stressful, I wish you a safe and joyful Christmas.

David Snowden is the ACT Fair Trading commissioner.

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.

• Shape: be wary of products that may be easily swallowed or have sharp edges or points.

DAVID SNOWDEN

CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017 9

Canberra Confidential Why Elizabeth said no to Coe IT would appear Liberal MLA Nicole Lawder wasn’t Opposition Leader Alistair Coe’s first choice for deputy as he frantically did the post-election numbers and horse trading to knock popular Jeremy Hanson from the top spot.

Newly minted MLA Elizabeth Lee was mischievously asked on 2CC’s “CityNews Sunday Roast” why she hadn’t leapt at Big Al’s offer.

Without demurring, the former lawyer and taekwondo black belter, who had earlier in the interview conceded she was more a liberal than a conservative, suggested it was too soon for her. Is she not ambitious?

Oh, absolutely, she is. Some wags are suggesting a mid-term Liberal ticket of Lee and Brindabella poster boy Mark Parton will be facing the Labor light-rail juggernaut in 2020. But probably only over the Machiavellian Coe’s dead body!

Manly Marty blonds up IDLY surveying the week’s social snappery, CC was suddenly transfixed by a photo from the usually benign Menslink monthly Midweeker event.

Kids’ party saved

The flaxen-haired Mr Fisk.

For there, among the well-brushed and Brylcreemed, was CEO Martin Fisk looking decidedly, well, blond and spiky.

Why the dye, Marty, we wondered?

“Went blond for our Big Night Out fundraiser in November. Hairdo was a small part in raising over $100K which was a sensational effort for the Canberra community I thought. I was very touched.”

And Mrs F, what does she think of the flaxen Mr Fisk?

“Mrs F loves it. In fact, I think the only people who really hate it are my mum and my kids (to be expected!).”

It’s not staying, but it’s not going any time soon, says the parsimonious Marty.

“At $200 a throw to get it dyed back, I’m letting it grow out!” he says.

A SMALL group of male attendees at the recent Spilt Milk music festival had the wherewithal to stay at the conveniently nearby Hyatt Hotel on Commonwealth Avenue. And that’s where their commonsense ended.

CC’s been told the “guests” staggered back to the hotel after a long afternoon and evening in the sun a lot the worse for wear.

Whether alcohol or other substances, we know not, but we do know they came across the downstairs room that had been fastidiously primped and primed for the Hyatt staff’s kids’ Christmas party the next day.

Apparently, they completely trashed the room before lurching back to their rooms, leaving a corridor trail of lollies, which made the job of plod pretty straightforward when they inevitably came knocking.

On being ejected from the hotel, the clowns were presented with a $6000 repair bill which, we’re told, evoked boo-hoo from the big men.

The hospitality heroes are the Hyatt staff, who turned around and had the room restored in time for the kids’ party.

Know something? / confidential@citynews.com.au

Australia Post’s delivery averaged 4km/h over the week.”

Gai raises her voice CC so admires the Member for Canberra that feelings are aroused at her every formal function. Gai Brodtmann’s just launched a cookbook and is shouting loud (not her best attribute, we doting ones think) for locals to snap up the coffee-tabler called “Capital Cookbook 3”.

The book is “bursting” with recipes from many of Canberra’s culinary experts, with chefs happy to share some of their most popular recipes. Les Bistronomes, XO, Chairman and Yip and Pialligo Estate have all contributed, says doyenne of dining and “CityNews” reviewer Wendy Johnson.

“Growers and sellers, who are an essential ingredient of the dining scene here, also feature, including Canberra Urban Honey, Alto Olives and Ona Coffee,” says Wendy.

It’s available from many Canberra bookstores and gift stores, as well as online through quicksandfood.com

Horse power

Gladrag alert, already!

CC regular Pierre the Lair writes to say he ordered a book on horse-drawn vehicles from Melbourne.

“The dispatcher emailed me that it was posted on Monday, November 28. The parcel arrived in my post office box in Canberra on Monday, December 5,” says Pierre.

“A Cobb & Co. mail coach on a rough track could average more than 10km/h.

AND for anyone anal enough to be prepping the diary for next year comes the news that only one summer, one autumn and one winter away is Canberra’s biggest red-carpet fashion event, Fashfest, which will be held at the National Convention Centre, September 28-30.

Dedicated follower of fashion, Clint Hutchinson is in the throes of departing his day job as MD of advertising agency Zoo to

refine and expand the festival as its CEO (and founder with wife Andrea).

“Stepping down from my full-time role will help Andrea and I take Fashfest 2017 to the next level. We’ll also roll out exciting pop-ups and activations throughout the city. Fashfest is here to stay.”

But CC was drawn to the end of the media announcement and the lonely sentence that acknowledged: “Fashfest is supported by the ACT government”. A sniff around reveals that Fashfest has received government funding for three of its four years, a total of $115,000 over the time, with $65,000 dropped into its lap in 2016 to assist with staging costs.

The voice of Canberra… town crier Joseph McGrail-Bateup.

Listen up, here’s Joe HEAR ye, Canberra has a new town crier. Well known local actor, director, singer and dancer Joseph McGrail-Bateup has told all his chums on Facebook ahead of the Chief Minister’s announcement.

A quick search on his skills revealed him to be inordinately suited to the role given his theatrical profile lists an ability with accents that include Australian, Cockney, English, Scottish, New York and French.

2017 Summer collection in-store now Comfortable, stylish, natural fibre clothing in sizes 10 to 28.

Silk Sisters in Bailey’s Arcade is the official Canberra City stockist of 17 Sundays, eb&ive, Isle of Mine, brave+true, Sonsee Woman, Hope & Harvest as well as all your Silk Sisters favourites.

Size diversity is our passion!

MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9AM-5PM & SATURDAY 10AM-2PM CHRISTMAS TRADING UNTIL DECEMBER 24 Shop 18, Bailey’s Arcade, 143 London Cct Canberra City Park at the Playhouse Theatre car park. p. (02) 6101 7406 | e. stores@forbroads.com.au | www.forbroads.com.au

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10 CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017 071116 Broads - Citynews.indd 1

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12/12/2016 7:23 PM

All about Christmas giving

advertising feature

There’s still time, but you need to get shopping, now!

WITH the days slipping away towards Christmas, there’s no avoiding it now, it’s seriously time to get some shopping done.

In this special, seasonal feature, “CityNews” has again sourced a variety of inspiring and different gift ideas to take away some of the stress from hunting for that perfect present...

Salon builds a sense of community KRISS Kross Barbershop and Salon has created its own community to relax and hang out, according to one of the owners, Matthew Byrne.

“Over the past nine months we’ve built up our own awesome little community, which is actually really cool to witness as one of the owners,”

Fabulous, cutting-edge European fashion in Manuka ESCALA Shoes is all about bringing cutting-edge design from Europe to Manuka, according to the owner Gail Lubbock.

Gail knows shoes, which is why she decided to open Escala Shoes in 1999.

Armed with an arts degree and extensive experience in fashion and retail, Gail sought out up-andcoming designers from the fashion capitals of Europe.

These designers contribute to, not only shoes, but also jewellery, bags, scarves and other things that would make an exclusive present this Christmas.

“We keep a lot of lovely things, it’s not about shoes alone,” says Gail. “Our stock is unique, it comes direct from very different factories in Europe. The stock doesn’t really crossover with other stuff in Canberra.”

Gail says Escala Shoes has a friendly atmosphere, with kind and knowledgeable staff.

Escala Shoes, Shop 1, The Lawns, 21 Bougainville Street, Manuka, call 6232 7666 or visit escala-shoes.com.au

Matching sandal and clutch bag from Escala Shoes… perfect for hot summer days.

says Matthew.

“We have clients come down simply to hang and have a chat with friends and staff, listen to music or sit down for lunch at the cafe.”

Matthew and co-owning partner Erika Gener-Galiza, as well as seven experienced staff members, work as a team for the Kriss Kross barbershop, salon and cafe.

Matthew says Kriss Kross gift vouchers would be happily received this Christmas.

“You’re giving your loved one the opportunity to offer their own twist and character on their present this year.

“And with the New Year just around the corner, what better way to start the popular ‘new year, new me’ with a change of style for 2017.”

Matthew says that Kriss Kross is different because it focuses on hearing what its clients wants and needs are and making sure they’re met in a friendly and relaxed environment.

Kriss Kross Barbershop and Salon, 107a Anthony Rolfe Avenue, Gungahlin. Visit facebook.com/krisskrossbarbersalon or call 6241 3020.

y a d i Hol perfection Espadrilles by Toni Pons at

the divine is in the detail O N T H E L AW N S M A N U K A , 2 1 B O U G A I N V I L L E S T 0 2 6 2 3 2 76 6 6 | E S C A L A S H O E S .CO M . AU

/CoolemanCourt coolemancourt.com.au CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017 11

yo me u et at

All about Christmas giving C O R N E R

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Nikon D5600 DSLR Kit with AFP 18-55mm VR Zoom Bonus $100 Ted’s Gift Card $1099.95 + $100 Ted’s Gift Card.

Loake 1880 – Made in England Goodyear Welted Leather Shoes Large variety of styles – see Milton for advice.

MUDD The Spa is a haven of peace in the heart of Canberra facilitating luxury and wellness, says owner Erin Barry.

“Calming and elegant, we invite you on an inspiring journey that will illuminate your spirit and excite your senses,” she says.

“Mudd The Spa is an urban oasis where you can escape the pressures of your daily life to invigorate the wellbeing of your mind, body and soul.”

This five-star facility, located within Hotel Realm, is in the heart of Canberra’s parliamentary triangle.

“Mudd The Spa integrates contemporary architectural themes with modern facilities and premium service, with our qualified Mudd therapists using the latest in spa technologies and techniques,” says Erin.

“The spa offers five private relaxation suites, including a couples room, a custom-designed Vichy Shower wet room and relaxation lounge.

“We offer an array of exclusive spa treatments and rituals for both men and women including facial, massage, hot stone massage, manicure, pedicure, waxing, tinting, organic spray tanning, performance body wraps and exfoliation therapies.”

Guests receive complimentary access to Evo Health Club, including a 25-metre heated indoor lap pool (for all spa therapies in excess of one hour), a hydrotherapy spa, sauna and steam room.

“The perfect gift this Christmas is a gift certificate from Mudd The Spa,” says Erin.

“Each gift certificate is carefully gift wrapped and presented to perfection.”

Mudd The Spa. Hotel Realm, Level B1, 18 National Circuit, Barton. Call 6162 0909, or visit @muddthespa instagram or mudd.com.au

“When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy” Matthew 2:10

COMMUNITY CAROLS @ HUGHES BAPTIST CHURCH

Sony Cybershot HX90V Ultrazoom Kit Bonus Pixi Tripod & 8GB Card Value $50 $549.95

THIS SUNDAY, 18th DECEMBER • 4pm-5pm • Traditional Carols • Children’s Christmas Talk • FREE SAUSAGE SIZZLE 5pm to 6pm Comfy, stylish, natural fibre clothing in sizes 10-28.

BAILEY’S ARCADE, CANBERRA CITY

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Cnr London Circuit & East Row (bus interchange) 12 CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017

CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICE 9.30am “Come and Celebrate the Birth of Jesus!”

HUGHES BAPTIST CHURCH, GROOM STREET, HUGHES For more information: office@hughesbaptist.org or call 6282 1301

advertising feature

Get your loved ones a gift they will really enjoy.

GIFT VOUCHERS Available for any amount or service you want to give that special person.

Deborah likes to stock local FOR Deborah Keenan, the store owner of Beautiful Gifting, it is important to support the nation and stock Australian products.

Deborah says she sells Robert Gordon high-fired stoneware and Maine Beach lotions and soaps as well as a hand selection of quality, overseas products.

“I’m trying to stock as much as I can Australian-made though,” says Deborah.

“If I can’t, I try and get good quality things that are a

little different.”

Deborah says the service at Beautiful Gifting is always to please the customer with complimentary gift wrapping available.

“We have many ideas for Christmas presents including top-of-the-range gifts to stuff for under $10.”

Phone: 02 6181 3691 info@suispacanberra.com.au • wwwsuispacanberra.com.au “Melbourne Building” 37 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra Open 7 days • 10am-10pm

Beautiful Gifting, 84 Monaro Street, Queanbeyan. Call 0419 627210 or search @BeautifulGifting on Facebook.

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Zoo entry passes & annual memberships, animal encounters and overnight stays at Jamala Wildlife Lodge - there is something to suit everybody, every occasion and every budget!

For your convenience - buy gift vouchers online through our websites or purchase over the counter

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www.nationalzoo.com.au | 02 6287 8400 www.jamalawildlifelodge.com.au | 02 6287 8444 CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017 13

Treat yourself ND A S R E H C GIFT VOU BSCRIPTIONS U SEASON STHE PERFECT MAKE MAS GIFT! CHRIST

OR SOMEONE ELSE IN 2017

In 2017 The Q brings you a package of theatrical delights: comedy, drama, musicals, dance, shows for children and a Morning Melodies program. A mix of ENTERTAINMENT that we hope you will find ENGAGING while you relax in the INTIMATE atmosphere of The Q.

THE ADDAMS FAMILY MUSICAL 3 - 19 MARCH 2017

RUMOUR HAS IT 6 - 8 APRIL 2017

BAKERSFIELD MIST 22 - 24 JUNE 2017

A COMEDY BASED ON A TRUE STORY

CINEMA FIASC0 SUNDAY 2 JULY 5PM

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THEY’RE CREEPY, KOOKY, MYSTERIOUS & SPOOKY

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LAUGH AT THE FUNNIEST BAD MOVIE EVER MADE!

ALWAYS... PATSY CLINE 15 - 18 FEBRUARY 2017

HYPNOLICIOUS! 19 - 20 MAY 2017

JULIA : THE MUSICAL 12 - 22 JULY 2017

: A I L JU THE

musical

THE STORY OF PATSY CLINE & LOUISE SEGER

A SUPER FUN COMEDY HYPNOSIS TREAT!

WINNING RELIES THOSE RUDDY NUMBERS

STONES IN HIS POCKETS 23 - 25 MARCH 2017

SHIRLEY VALENTINE 24 - 27 MAY

AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS 2 - 5 AUGUST 2017

A COMIC TALE OF AN IRISH TOWN

A HOUSEWIFE REDISCOVERS HERSELF IN GREECE

HILARIOUSLY PERKY AND A JOKE-FUELLED TREAT

The Q • Queanbeyan

E B I R C S B U S & SAVE

THE Q - QUEANBEYAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE The Q is located in the Lowe Street Carpark, Queanbeyan

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GET YOUR FREE SEASON GUIDE!

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For your free season guide, bookings or gift vouchers phone 6285 6290, email boxoffice.adminassistant@qprc.nsw.gov.au or visit theq.net.au for more info. As well as savings through our traditional Season Subscription you can also try our free Q-Club Membership for a range of benefits or where applicable our new U-25 youth savings card.

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8 FEB @ 10.30AM - ONLY $25 LUKE KENNEDY HIS VOICE A BALLET BASED ON THE CLASSIC SWAN LAKE

YOUR KIDS WILL NOT STOP LAUGHING!

SUMMER OF THE SEVENTEENTH DOLL 20 - 30 SEPT 2017

THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS 28 JUNE - 1 JULY 2017

An unmissable live experience for fans of brilliant music & power vocals.

7 APR @ 10.30AM - ONLY $25 MELODY BECK IN ‘UNSEEN’ A tribute to Marni Nixon.

You’ve heard her voice, now hear her story!

8 AUG @ 10.30AM - ONLY $25 AN QUINTESSENTIALLY AUSTRALIAN STORY

A FRESH TAKE ON A CLASSIC ADVENTURE

FROM BROADWAY TO BALLROOM 26 - 28 OCTOBER 2017

HORRIBLE HARRIET 6 - 10 SEPTEMBER 2017

This dynamic husband and wife team mix humour & music to make the perfect mix!

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What better way to spend a weekday morning than enjoying some top class entertainment in the welcoming ambience of The Q. Following the shows there will be a complimentary cuppa and biscuits in the foyer and a chance to meet the stars.

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BOX OFFICE

Monday to Friday 10.00am – 4.00pm Saturday 10.00am – 2.00pm Call 02 6285 6290

All about Christmas giving

advertising feature

Spa vouchers get a boost TEN years ago Club MMM Day Spa opened inside the Canberra International Aquatic Centre to offer clients the complete package.

Club MMM Day Spa provides a variety of services such as hydrotherapy, infrared saunas, remedial massage and beauty services.

According to a club spokeswoman, Club MMM Day Spa is currently adding an extra 20 per cent value to gift vouchers and on special is the Dermaquest C Infusion High Performance Peel for pigmented and dull skin at $59.

Members of Club Lime and Pink receive 10 per cent off regular-priced treatments all year round.

She says Club MMM Day Spa caters for male and female clients wanting beauty services.

Some include physiotherapy patients, clients who need rehabilitation and therapy using our hydrotherapy pool.

“We have very experienced dedicated staff including wonderful remedial massage staff,” she says.

“We have a very large facility with 10 treatment rooms, four wet rooms purpose built for body scrubs, body wraps and hydrotherapy spas and a hydrotherapy pool, for which we run warm-water classes.

“We are different because of our size and what we offer, being close to being the biggest urban spa in the country.”

Manager Alexandra Hambesis, centre, and her team at Club MMM Day Spa.

Club MMM Day Spa, Eastern Valley Way, Bruce.

Call 6162 2666 or visit clubmmmdayspa.com.au

A scene from the Irish play “Stones in his Pockets”.

Theatre season bursting with choice CHRISTMAS can be the perfect opportunity to give someone the gift of an experience.

The program manager from The Q, Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, Stephen Pike says a theatre experience will stay with people for a lot longer than, say, chocolates.

He says: “Sometimes you’re scratching your head thinking, what can I buy?”

The shows are specifically designed for 40 plus so if younger people are stuck on buying presents for parents or aunties or even friends, this could be it.

“It’s the most varied and busy season next year,” says Stephen.

The Q will be showcasing drama, comedy, music, dance, hypnotherapists and a locally written musical about Julia Gillard.

But what makes The Q present worthily different is the intimacy of the venue.

“We only have 346 seats so you’re never far from the stage,” says Stephen.

The Q, rear of 253 Crawford Street, Queanbeyan. Call 6285 6290 or visit www.theq.net.au/

This Christmas, even our Gift Vouchers are giving a little extra...

Enjoy 20% more value with our Christmas Gift Vouchers.

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clubmmmdayspa.com.au 16 CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017

CUT 1893

Spend $100 and receive a $120 Gift Voucher

GRAB A GIFT VOUCHER FROM KRISS KROSS

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Christmas giving An animal-lover’s Christmas

Who do you know who would love this Flight Simulator Experience for Christmas?

AT the National Zoo and Aquarium, Christmas is the busiest time of year and now that the zoo has some new animals it might be even busier!

Retail and information manager Sally Bradley says: “We have some new black and white ruffed baby lemurs.

“Also recent to the zoo is a siamang enclosure.”

Sally says the zoo has a variety of different gift ideas for the holidays.

“For anyone in the family that’s an animal lover, the zoo has it sorted,” she says.

“People can stay in the Jamala Wildlife Lodge, it’s a little piece of Africa right here in Canberra.”

The zoo will also be holding a school holiday program in January called “Zoocation” where kids can get up close and personal with the animals.

National Zoo and Aquarium, 999 Lady Denman Drive, Weston Creek.

Call 6287 8400 or via the website nationalzoo.com.au

• • • • •

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The Christmas shop that doesn’t stop BY its name, Hang Ups Christmas Emporium is not just a normal Christmas shop says the owner Mike Welch.

Mike says: “We stock products from all over the world. They’re collectables not disposables.”

The shop is open all year and Mike says it is more of a boutique store.

He says: “Hang Ups Christmas Emporium is where you get nice, quality decorations for Christmas that you won’t find anywhere else.

“We offer competitive prices and pride our service on building professional relationships with our clients.”

Mike says they stock stunning trees, collectable ornaments, snow globes, glassware and ceramics from designer labels.

Hang Ups Christmas Emporium, 80-82 Kembla Street, Fyshwick.

Call 6280 0312 or email info@hangups.com.au

e, collectible Christmas decoratio u q i n u r u o y ns F or

Unit 3, 80-82, Kembla St Fyshwick, ACT Open 7 Days 18 CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017

advertising feature A fusion of Japanese and Far East healing LOCATED in the iconic heritage Melbourne Building is Sui Spa Canberra, a place inspired by a fusion of Japanese and Far East ancient healing.

Sui Spa includes three couples and friends’ suites, a yoga studio and a members-only entrance.

The yoga sessions focus on breath control, meditation and postures to promote flexibility, core strength and relaxation.

Through spa treatments, the staff use intuitive touch and high performance techniques that guide clients to optimum body and mind equilibrium.

Sui Spa Canberra, Melbourne Building, 37 Northbourne Avenue.

Call 6181 3691 or email info@suispacanberra.com.au

The gift of flying JET Flight Simulator Canberra is a one-of-a-kind experience.

“We provide the everyday person with the opportunity to sit in the most used plane in the world and experience what it is like to captain the 737 using our replica 737 flight simulator,” says Josh Ramsey, owner of Jet Flight Simulator Canberra.

Jet Flight Simulator, which has simulators across the country, is Australia’s only privately owned and operated flight simulator based on the Boeing 737-800NG run by professional pilots. No experience is needed and participants can bring up to four passengers in for free.

“It’s a gift that’s out of the ordinary. People love the experience, some say: ‘It’s reignited my passion’.

“Lots of people have these dreams as a kid and put them to the side.”

Jet Flight Simulator Canberra makes these dreams come true, no professional experience needed.

And for Christmas, “CityNews” readers will get 60 per cent off!

Jet Flight Simulator Canberra, Unit 5, 4 Ipswich Street, Fyshwick.

Visit jet.flightsimulatorcanberra.com.au or call 0438 834026.

Book speaks volumes for Queanbeyan NICHOLE Overall, social historian and author of award-winning book, “Queanbeyan City of Champions” unveils the history and talent produced by the sometimes underrated town of Queanbeyan.

Nichole wrote the book because she was interested in the history of the region.

She says: “It’s an overview of the town’s journey through the last 175 years.

“It’s been 40 years since Queanbeyan had a book published about its history.”

It’s a coffee-table-styled book featuring more than 330 photographs.

One photo highlights Queanbeyan-born Formula One driver Mark Webber, and another showcases professional cricketer Brad Haddin.

Nichole says: “Photos such as these can’t be found anywhere else.”

For only $39 Nichole says it will make a great Christmas present for a broad audience.

To purchase “Queanbeyan City of Champions” call 0413 671123 or email qbn@qbncityofchampions.com.au

Wild Gifts!

At the National Zoo & Aquarium Gift Shop, we stock a wide variety of animal & nature inspired gifts for every member of the family.

www.nationalzoo.com.au | 02 6287 8400 Lady Denman Drive - next to Scrivener Dam

Give the treasured gift of a Mudd The Spa Gift Certificate this Christmas an experience as luxurious as it is unforgettable Discovery true luxury at Mudd The Spa Mudd The Spa offers five private relaxation suites, including a couples room, a custom-designed Vichy Shower wet room and relaxation lounge.

Exclusive spa treatments and rituals for both men and women including facial, massage, hot stone massage, vichy shower, performance body treatment wraps, manicure, pedicure, organic spray tanning and waxing & tinting therapies.

To purchase your Gift Certificate or to book your experience contact

6162 0909 www.mudd.com.au Located within Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit Barton

Open Seven Days CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017 19

school holiday fun

Summertime and the learning is easy...

SCHOOL’S out for the year and the long, summer holidays beckon. But it’s still a great time to learn new skills for life, be it music, circus, paleontology or sport.

Here’s a look at some of the best in summer school temptations…

School Holiday Programs!

Fun, Fitness and Friendship • Try uni-cycling, trampoline, juggling, trapeze, handstands, hula hoop and heaps more • Choose from a wide variety of circus skills or have a go at everything • Week-long programs starting 3rd of January • Catering for beginners to experienced circus enthusiasts • Two locations, Chifley and Kaleen • Programs for ages 5-7 and 8-plus

Dinosaurs galore for education and fun THE National Dinosaur Museum is all about education and fun ever since its opening 24 years ago, off the back of the original “Jurassic Park” movie.

Education manager Phil Hore says it’s not just a dinosaur museum.

“We have the biggest display in Australian prehistoric material,” says Phil.

For the school holidays, the museum has prepared many educational and fun things to choose from.

There’s an interactive quest that leads to a prize of a six million-year-old shark tooth.

“We also give guided tours that are run by professionals who are trained to be entertaining,” says Phil.

Tour guides will reveal the museum’s strong Australia and Canberra focus, with facts that will “blow minds”.

“Did you know Black Mountain was literally the seafloor 450 million years ago?” says Phil.

Another activity during the holidays is at midday, every day, and people can train to become paleontologists.

“We have a large area with dirt and fossils. It’s a great hands-on experience,” says Phil.

The museum even has a “Fossil Light” display that is free with normal entry.

The National Dinosaur Museum, 6 Gold Creek Road, Gold Creek. Call 6230 2655 or visit nationaldinosaurmuseum.com.au

Big experience in a small world IN the 1970s, Babbacombe, a district in England, was replicated and brought to Canberra.

The tiny town sits inside Cockington Green Gardens along with a delightful and fascinating display of meticulously crafted miniature buildings set within beautifully landscaped gardens.

“I don’t believe there is anything as big or extensive in Australia,” says the executive assistant Debbie Sarah.

Debbie contributes to the four generations of the Sarahs, who have kept Cockington Green Gardens a

Contact us now to enrol!

6260 3626 programs@warehousecircus.org.au www.warehousecircus.org.au

family orientated business for many decades.

Debbie says they cater for all ages, from kids to seniors.

“There’s hands-on displays where children can press buttons”, she says.

“Kids especially enjoy the steam train ride.”

There’s also a colourful display of gardens, which are often compared to famous gardens around the world.

Cockington Green Gardens, 11 Gold Creek Road, Nicholls. Visit cockingtongreen.com.au or call 6230 2273.

Mention this ad for 20% off the general admission price* Open 7 Days. 9.30 – 4.15pm (last admission)

11 Gold Creek Road, Nicholls ACT 2913

Display closes at 5pm. Closed Xmas and Boxing Days.

(02) 6230 2273 • cockingtongreen.com.au

* Valid to Jan 2018. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offers.

20 CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017

advertising feature

Activities to get kids off the couch MANY people are unaware that the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) is open to the public, says fitness centre manager Jesse McConaghy.

These holidays the AIS has a variety of programs for everyone, such as multi-sports programs, tennis camps, swim intensive camps, for all skill levels and tours for all ages.

“We give parents an option to bring their kids, keep them active, expose them to new skills and make some new friends,” he says.

“Programs focus on participation, you don’t need to be an expert athlete. “We cater to a wide range of skills,

it’s about getting kids off the couch these holidays.”

For those who enjoy watching sport rather than playing it can take a tour through AIS where they might catch some of Australia’s top athletes training.

The tour also incorporates “Sportex”, a leading interactive sports exhibit set amongst a collection of Australian sporting memorabilia.

Australian Institute of Sport, Leverrier Street, Bruce.

Holiday programs via 6214 1281 and tours at 6214 1010 or visit experienceais.com

Canberra Walk In Aviary Feed the Birds!

‘The Canberra Walk-In Aviary is a 1000 square metre planted walkin aviary, located in Gold Creek Village NICHOLLS, where the friendly free flying birds can be observed, photographed and fed. It is our mission to allow people to interact directly with the birds. Visitors to the aviary walk amongst more than 500 birds representing 60 different species from Australia and around the world.

Visitors are given a small plate of food and some of the birds will come and interact with you.’

Trading hours

Open every day of the year 10am to 5pm – except Christmas Day (Last admission 4.30pm)

Unit 13 Federation Square, O’Hanlon Place, NICHOLLS Phone 6230 2044 Email micklogan@iinet.net.au canberrawalkinaviary.com.au

School Holiday Program Enrolling Now!

SUMMER MUSIC SCHOOL

JANUARY 9 – 20, 2017, RADFORD COLLEGE - NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NECESSARY

Weekdays 9 – 3:30 for ages 5 – 21 years in 4 unique programs. Join over 400 students and Canberra’s top musicians and educators in fun, educative, hands-on musical activity in many musical styles and arts practices including beginner instruments, music-theatre, dance, composition, ensemble playing and drumming.

Australia’s premier elite sporting precinct School holiday fun at the AIS Keep your kids active over the break — with a range of fun sporting and fitness activities to choose from, they’ll never be stuck on the couch during the holidays again!

Select from Tennis, Soccer, Sports Vacation, Swim Intensive or Pre-School Program.

Spaces are limited for all camps and programs.

Fees apply. Bookings are essential.

AIS Tours Go behind the scenes on an award-winning 90 minute AIS Tour. Daily 10am, 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm. Fees apply.

Leverrier Street, Canberra, ACT Phone: (02) 6214 1281 (School Holiday Programs) Phone: (02) 6214 1010 (Tours)

YMS Concert Band, Voices Out Loud Choral Program and composition programs, PLUS YMS INSTRUMENT HIRE for all you need to start your musical journey.

/ExperienceAIS

@ExperienceAIS

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WEEKLY PROGRAMS IN 2017 Join our non-auditioned

www.youngmusicsociety.org.au ph:(02) 6251 8017 CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017 21

school holiday fun

advertising feature Enjoying the best of birds

Roll up and discover the world of circus KIDS can discover a whole new world these holidays at Warehouse Circus, according to executive director Aleshia Johnson.

Warehouse Circus is a not-for-profit youth circus with more than 25 years of experience teaching and performing across the Canberra region.

Warehouse Circus’ next school holiday program will be held in January.

“Circus variety is huge, so if a kid can’t do something or doesn’t like it there is plenty more to choose from,” says Aleshia.

“It’s non-competitive, we teach people to work in a group, which will lead up to a final performance.”

“Kids tend to make close friend-

ships throughout the week. They also tend to enjoy the more risky side of circus and want to push themselves physically.

“Circus improves self-esteem, helps overcome fears and teaches people to take challenges and work as a team.”

New to the program, Warehouse Circus has developed a partnership with Nutrition Australia, offering an extra healthy snacks workshop option for afternoon tea.

GET up close and personal with a range of birds at the Canberra Walk-in Aviary.

The aviary is a 1000sqm planted walk-in enclosure that has about 550 birds from about 60 different species.

“The aviary is great fun for all ages. You have the chance to get up close and personal with a range of birds,” says Mick Logan, owner and manager of the aviary.

“While not all birds will interact with you, you get the chance to observe, up close, species of birds that otherwise would be hard to see in the wild.

“We give you a small plate of food and a tub of mealworms and you can wander around and feed the birds.”

Mick says that people are welcome to take photos of the birds.

“Providing the weather is fine you can have a great time feeding the birds or just observing our feathered friends,” Mick says.

Call 6230 2044 or visit canberrawalkinaviary.com.au

Warehouse Circus, Chifley Health and Wellbeing Hub, 4/70 MacLaurin Crescent, or UC High School, 104 Baldwin Drive, Kaleen. Call 6260 3626 or visit warehousecircus.org.au

Young people making beautiful music BUILT from volunteers and family memberships, the Young Music Society (YMS) has been offering quality education-based, fun music activities to young Canberrans since 1969.

“The Young Music Society has grown since its humble beginnings into an organisation that now offers quality holiday music programs every school holiday period,” says artistic director Stephen Leek.

The largest project every year has been the Annual YMS Summer Music School which caters for up to 400 young people between the ages of five and 21.

“The Summer Music School is fun, engaging and stimulating with students electing to choose pathways through a range of daily activities that are creative and performance-

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22 CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017

based activities, but also allow scope for each student to make a journey of discovery and connection into areas such as theatre, music theatre and dance,” says Stephen.

“Students are engaged and challenged at the level at which they arrive, from beginners to advanced.

“But most importantly, it is an opportunity for Canberra’s young musicians and artists of the future to have fun in quality music-making programs and to make new life-long friends and colleagues.”

The YMS Summer Music School runs from January 9 to 20 at Radford College in Bruce.

Young Music Society, Studio 1, Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank. Call 6251 8017 or visit youngmusicsociety.org.au

arts & entertainment

Canberra’s top five eateries

Wendy Johnson

arts in the city

Sing-along sends off the Tatchells

By Helen Musa A RECENT sing-along “Messiah” at Wesley Music Centre was, sadly, a thinly-disguised farewell to music legends Mary and Michael Tatchell, who are leaving Canberra to live in Adelaide, where their grandchildren and operatic baritone son Jeremy live.

Singer George Huitker, and Junk Sculpture… “We’ve been doing New Year’s Eve at Vivaldi for 12 years and we consider it will be quite a loss – nothing can replace that building,” says Huitker.

George plans to bring house down

By Helen Musa

IF teacher, actor, rock musician, sportsman/coach and writer George Huitker has anything to do with it, there won’t be a dry eye in the house when he and his band Junk Sculpture step on stage on New Year’s Eve. It will be their 13th New Year’s Eve performance at Teatro Vivaldi and their second “swansong” for the year. Not only did the band perform its final Midnight Oil tribute in September, but now the long-held secret is out that Vivaldi and the whole ANU Arts Centre will be obliterated as part of the ANU’s union court and University Avenue redevelopment.

Now in his 28th year as drama teacher and sports coach at Radford College, Huitker is one of Canberra’s great individualists, a true believer in peace, harmony and “service learning” who this year also wrote a new book, “Big Life”, found time

to stage his own online mini-Floriade and, with a strong commitment to introducing his students to Aboriginal Australia, headed north.

“CityNews” caught up with Huitker as he sweltered in 43C temperatures at Tingha, in Gamilaraay country near Armidale, where he and several groups of students from Radford have, since 2011, been helping out at local schools while also exchanging stories and ideas.

By no coincidence at all, Junk Sculpture also played in Tingha a couple of years ago, where elder and didgeridoo player Alex joined them onstage.

“We don’t come up here with a do-gooder mentality,” he emphasises, “Some of the Radford people may never have met an Aboriginal person and others have no basic understanding of our history since 1788, so we try and give the students a real, organic experience by sharing stories, culture and music.”

In Huitker’s view the experience is entirely reciprocal, for while the Tingha kids, mostly primary age, are strong on stories, the Radford

students share a love of learning that he believes is “quite infectious.”

As for New Year’s Eve, while it’s going to be a sad occasion and one that will conjure up memories from him of the many performances at the Arts Centre, he and the band – bassist Chris Brown, guitarist Rob Marshall, drummer-vocalist Joel Copeland, keyboardist Matt Heinrich, trumpeter Callum Sambridge, drummer-guitarist Hayden Fritzlaff and sound and synth-man, Tim Kuschel – have decided on something “more light-hearted, gentler” this year, a “harmonistic piano battle” between the music of Elton John and Billy Joel.

“We’ve been doing New Year’s Eve at Vivaldi for 12 years and we consider it will be quite a loss – nothing can replace that building,” Huitker says.

George Huitker and Junk Sculpture, at Teatro Vivaldi, 7pm, December 31. Bookings 2625 2718 or vivaldirestaurant.com.au

THE Royal Australian Mint is showcasing the story of Stuart Devlin, Geelong-born designer of Australia’s circulating coins and goldsmith and jeweller to the Queen, in an exhibition called “The Designer with the Midas Touch”. On show will be the Wiltshire Staysharp Knife MK1, furniture, tableware and candelabra that lit up dining rooms of the rich and powerful.

IT’S quite a coup for The Street Theatre’s Caroline Stacey to be directing in March the world premiere season of “Cold Light”, adapted by Alana Valentine from the novel by Frank Moorhouse. Sonia Todd is cast in the role of the fictional protagonist Edith Campbell Berry, who returns to Australia and to its new capital in the 1950s with the ambition to become the country’s first female ambassador. Stacey commissioned and workshopped the stage play in 2013.

ONE of the most popular works

by CS Lewis after “The Chronicles of

Narnia” is “The Screwtape Letters”, which follows the correspondence between a senior demon, Screwtape, and his junior demon nephew, Wormwood. Directed and adapted

by Hailey McQueen, this dark comedy is performed by Yannick Lawry, with George Zhao as his sidekick Toadpipe.

At the Courtyard Studio, December 19-23. Bookings to canberratheatrecentre.com.au or 6275 2700.

SMITH’S Alternative is offering a night of cocktails and “theatrical delights” in the part-Sherlock Holmes mystery, part-Jules Verne adventure, part-Oscar Wilde comedy “Early Grave, Fashionably Late”,

by Canberra-based performer Christopher Samuel Carroll, who debuted the show last year at the Edinburgh Fringe. Smith’s, 76 Alinga Street, Civic, December 20, bookings to smithsalternative.com BILK Gallery’s annual Christmas exhibition focuses on the best of Australian one-off collectables including new rings, glass flowers, whisky and sake glass sets, earrings and necklaces in glass, silver and gold. Palmerston Lane, Manuka, until December 24.

WALLIS Bird, two-time winner of the Meteor Award, Ireland’s national music prize, will be at the Phoenix Pub, Civic, on Wednesday, December 21. Tickets at the door.

Old inn’s sing-alongs MUSIC FOR CHRISTMAS TRADE IN YOUR OLD GEAR OR WE CAN REPAIR to celebrate Christmas Duratone Hi-Fi PTY LTD

By Helen Musa INNKEEPER Richard Graham, of the Carrington Inn in Bungendore, has come up with a seasonal entertainment to mark Christmas and the pagan summer solstice.

“Carols at the Carrington” will take place under the stars in the refurbished gardens of the inn, and is billed by Graham as “a fun and classy Christmas program of music, carols and poetry”.

With a grand piano centre stage, musical entrepreneur and pianist Carl Rafferty will conduct his Opera

by Candlelight Singers in a mix of traditional and modern holiday fare, including a few sing-alongs.

Graham says he’s been deep in research about the inn’s origins and found, serendipitously, that while the first Christmas music can be traced to fourth century Rome, carols as we know them today only gained popularity in the latter half of the 19th century, just when the inn was established in 1885 as a hotel and coaching station, by

Phone 6282 1333 | www.duratone.com.au Cnr of Botany Street & Altree Court, Phillip

Don’t just take a photograph

...make one

The Opera by Candlelight Singers.

William Daniel Winter.

“We intend ‘Carols at the Carrington’ to become an annual occurrence in our village for both locals and visitors wanting that small-town feeling, if only for an evening,” he says.

Proceeds from the program will be donated to the Abbeyfield House Bungendore project and the Salvation Army.

“Carols at the Carrington”, the Carrington Inn, 21 Malbon Street, Bungendore, from 6pm, Wednesday, December 21. Admission by prebooking only to eventbrite.com.au or thecarringtoninn.com.au

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Cooleman Court Weston Creek | 6293 4677 OPEN 7 DAYS | www.songland.com.au CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017 23

9th - 31st December

Norman Lindsay

SALE Norman Lindsay’s works on paper up to 40% off

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www.aarwungallery.com.au FEDERATION SQUARE • 02 6230 2055

wine

Old story of young wine IN the fictional country of a short story that is part of a collection I’m reading that bad food is endemic.

The author determines to send that message by example and, after describing a sauce served with mussels as “stiff and gluey”, she remarks that: “We finished the meal with old apples and young wine”.

To me, that showed the depth of bias against young wines: the connection and comparison with old apples was there to demonstrate that the meal was poor.

As with most issues that offer up easy generalisations, the notion comes down to the particular: it depends. Being young does not necessarily mean you are vibrant; being old does not necessarily mean you are wise. It depends on the individual. In the application of this concept to wine, I’ve found a writer who holds the same views: Terry Theise in his book “Reading Between the Wines”.

He says: “Maybe the answer is ‘yes’ if one is obliged to score on an absolute scale, but certainly not if one permits relativity and equivalence to enter the equation; for instance, a zippy, light Sancerre can be a “perfect” wine with oysters for which the higherscoring wine is too concentrated.”

But the secret seems to be to buy quality. And in so doing, the wine will please whether it is young or old.

To be blunt, there is little point in storing modest or, perhaps more harshly, mediocre wines.

As the great Somerset Maugham said: “Only a mediocre person is always at his best.” The same applies to wines, the vast majority of which are intended to be consumed very close to purchase.

Wines are being marketed with riper fruit, softer tannins and lower acidity with this consumer behaviour in mind. With acid and tannin as natural preservatives,

Being young does not necessarily mean you are vibrant; being old does not necessarily mean you are wise. this means that the winemaker’s intention is that they are consumed earlier.

I put the question of drinking young wine to a local winemaker.

“The tricky thing is that winemakers marketing wine intended to be drunk young are different winemakers to me,” said Frank van de Loo, of Mount Majura Vineyard.

“We look to make wines that are balanced: they may be able to be drunk young, but with time in the cellar they gain complexity but that doesn’t mean they can’t be enjoyed when young.

“There are certain wines that are delicious immediately, for example our TSG – Tempranillo, Shiraz and Graciano – which tends to be very easy to drink young because it has plenty of soft, black-fruit character.

“Essentially, there is a large percentage of wine that is bought for immediate consumption, particularly those in the $10-$15 bracket. You buy a $10 wine to drink that day. It’s about the price point,” he said.

He goes on to make the point that these wines will not improve with age. Jung would have been proud: “The wine of youth does not always clear with advancing years; sometimes it grows turbid.”

RICHARD CALVER cinema

Partying with an unfunny camel

By Dougal McDonald

FEBRUARY 10

AIS ARENA, CANBERRA ACT

#1 ALBUM OUT NOW

24 CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017

Walter to change his mind, Carol to change her decision and the “Office Christmas Party” cloud of dismissal hanging over as-yet-unselected employees to lift (MA) beneath the sunshine of a big sale.

IT took three writers to concoct the Still with me? At least 20 minutes story that co-directors Josh Gordon into the film and the word “party” and Will Speck manufactured into not yet having been spoken? Carol’s this movie using a screenplay by booked to fly to London that eventhree more writers. ing, leaving the boys free to throw A camel is a horse designed by a giant hoolie at which to persuade a committee. Go figure! Many films Walter to change his mind. need only one writer for success.

Carol’s flight leaves late that The plot for this camel evolves afternoon. And it’s mid-winter. Until from Mr Vanstone having then, on your behalf, I sat through bequeathed his IT company to about half the film’s 105-minute daughter Carol (Jennifer Aniston) length watching sanity fly away and its Chicago branch to son Clay as employees, friends, old Uncle (TJ Miller) in whose office the urn Tom Cobley and all partied on at containing his ashes now reposes. company expense.

Carol is one tough businessTo discern a purpose for all that woman, committed to the firm. misbehavioural malarkey, filmgoers Playboy Clay depends on his will need to engage their brains in buddy Josh (Jason Bateman) to low gear while the film drags them run the Chicago branch, which by through a bog of raucous tomfoolperforming financially below Carol’s ery in pursuit of the outcome that it expectations provides her with has been promising since it started. reason to dismiss 20 per cent of the If it made any kind of sense, it might staff. And Christmas is coming. have justified its DreamWorks logo.

The branch needs a big success But it’s really not all that funny to persuade Carol that it can deliver despite some admirable supporting the goods. Walter Davis (Courtney performances. And it says nothing B Vance) who needs an IT supplier about what Christmas should really to come on board his new venture, be reminding us. has already chosen a competitor.

Clay and Josh need to persuade At Hoyts and Palace Electric

dining

The critic’s pick: Canberra’s top five eateries THIS is the 46th food story I’ve written for “CityNews” this year. I’m afraid to take a measuring tape and put it around my waist and I’ll be developing a much closer relationship with my personal trainer in 2017.

Les Bistronomes.

Vincent.

Avenue C.

in Campbell with the bar created with pieces taken from stamped wine crates. Peter Bell – a top-notch sommelier – has created something unique, combining a wine bar and a shop. He has pulled together great wines, with an ever-changing selection of up to 18 memorable picks by the glass. There’s no real kitchen – all food is prepped behind the bar, so the menu features charcuterie plates and the like. It’s designed around grazing.

When the editor challenged me to close off the Another new kid in town is Otis Dining Hall, year by writing about my top five picks – from my Kingston. More wonderful wines and wonderful dining experiences of 2016 – I didn’t skip a beat in food. Owner/chef Damian Brabender offers an selecting them. Here goes, in no special order. intriguing menu, with dishes thoughtfully prepared.

I love Les Bistronomes in Braddon for its plating Enjoy a drink at the long bar and and amazing flavours. Food is a feast settle in for some fab food for the eyes and it’s no surprise that When the editor then in an unpretentious atmosphere, Chef Clement Chauvin knows that. including nostalgic dishes such He was slaving away at Pic, a twochallenged me to steak.

Michelin star restaurant in Valence close off the year by as pepper Last on my top five is Rye, when he was just 18. It’s a militarystyle kitchen where staff had to writing about my top a new addition to Braddon’s dining scene. The fitout features present each dish perfectly. Les five picks, I didn’t a minimalist Scandinavian Bistronomes specialises in French approach, with light wood tones cuisine with perfect wine matching skip a beat in and dove-grey accents. The thanks to Abel Bariller, a professional selecting them. menu is compact, with the French Master Sommelier. The fiveemphasis on food quality. The course chef’s degustation served Danish open sandwiches served on seeded dark Saturday lunch is a steal at $50 (be sure to book).

Vincent, in Barton, burst on to the scene as a new rye bread are amazing, the breakfast line-up soul concept restaurant, quickly making its mark. Vincent satisfying and the prices pretty pleasing. Rye has a isn’t too serious on the personality side but seriously great outdoor dining area and you can watch the world go by. good on the food and wine side with labels sourced from around the world. Vincent performs best with guests who love to share. Indulge in one dish with a glass of wine or select several to form a full meal. The wine list is excellent.

Avenue C is a relatively new and uber cool place

Otis Dining Hall.

Rye.

CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017 25

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Inspiring books worth a look ANYONE looking for the Christmas gift that really can’t go wrong? How about a gardening book?

3. CHARLOTTE Hedeman Gueniau, together with her French husband Phillipe, wanted a change after living in Paris for 15 years. They moved to Denmark and founded an ethical homewares empire in an old shipyard building. With the company name Rice and 70 employees, they produce homeware collections that are ethically sourced and produced all over the world. Her book, “Happy Home Outside – Everyday Magic for Outdoor Life” (Murdoch Books, $49.95), provides a wealth of ideas for outdoor living from garden seats, original table decorations, fabric canopies and amazing lighting solutions. All perfect inspiration for our Australian outdoor way of life.

I have listed here three new books that, even on a rainy day, the recipient can sit inside and still enjoy gardening.

1. IN “The House and Garden at Glenmore” (Murdoch Books, $59.99) interior designer Mickey Robertson tells the story of her and husband Larry’s restoration of a collection of dilapidated colonial farm buildings near Camden with an equally non-existent garden. This is a perfect example of what can be done with old buildings in turning them into a beautiful home and ornamental garden. Throughout this profusely illustrated book are garden hints galore and 30 seasonal recipes from their kitchen garden.

1

ELSEWHERE, the essential local garden book, especially for friends or relatives going into their first home and possibly a non-existent garden, is the “Canberra Gardener”, published by the Horticultural Society of Canberra. Available from newsagents and bookshops.

2. MICHAEL Cooke is a long-established landscape designer in Australia and overseas who, in conjunction with garden and architecture photographer Brigid Arnott, has written the intriguingly titled “Disobedient Gardens” (Murdoch Books, $59.99). This is an ideal combination of talent that features five interesting gardens created by Cooke with superb photography

by Arnott. His gardens feature an element of wildness combined with a degree of order. Combined with a sense of order there is as described by Cooke a degree of disobedience which makes them all the more interesting.

2

AND a few reminders for anyone going away on holiday: • Arrange for someone to check on the watering system if it is automatic. These can go wrong and you don’t want to arrive home to a flooded garden.

• Potted plants are the biggest problem and need to be watered every few days.

• Arrange for the mail to be collected, especially overflowing letterboxes with catalogues, and papers picked up from the lawn – a dead giveaway that no-one’s home.

THIS is my final garden page this year, so to all my readers a big thank you for all your emails and letters over the last 12 months. Other than watering, my advice is to take the holidays and forget about any hard work in the garden.

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puzzles page Joanne Madeline Moore

GAIL FREEMAN & CO PTY LTD

General knowledge crossword No. 578

Your week in the stars – December 19-25, 2016

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT

Your bossy side usually goes into overdrive, as you take charge of festive preparations. But perhaps it would be smarter to slow down, delegate and cooperate this Christmas? With Mars moving into passive Pisces, it’s time to morph from a rowdy Ram into a gentle Lamb. Do your best to avoid being disruptive on the weekend, when Uranus revs up your unpredictable streak. Hopefully Saturn will settle you down, so you’re not worn out before the plum pudding is on the table!

Dire days for the little businesses

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)

Taureans are in a terrifically festive mood, as you enjoy the Yuletide revelry. Mars moves through your hopes and wishes zone from Monday until January 28. So it’s important to start dreaming big dreams for 2017. This week a streamlined approach is the key to successful preparations. If you plan carefully and prioritise, then you’ll get everything done without too much stress. But, if you eat and drink too much on Christmas Day, then you’ll be a grumpy Bull on Boxing Day.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Are you running around being super busy but you’re actually achieving very little?

Slow down Gemini, and work your way through your Yuletide to-do list one logical step at a time. With Mercury in retrograde motion all week, communication chaos is likely. So a truck-load of tact is required, especially on Christmas Day. Otherwise you could find yourself smack bang in the middle of a feisty family feud, as you blurt out the wrong thing to the wrong person at the wrong time.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

With jolly Jupiter jumping through your home zone, you’re looking forward to some fabulous festive fun and cheer. Clannish Crabs are the keepers of the family flame so aim to be enthusiastically proactive about gathering loved ones together over the coming week. But don’t labour under the ridiculous delusion that you can handle everything on your own. Cooperation is the secret to a successful Christmas for clever Cancers. The more hands on deck, the merrier.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

The Moon’s moving through your domestic zone, so many Cats will host Christmas celebrations at home this year. But communication between guests looks somewhat chaotic, as retrograde Mercury stirs up sensitivities. It will take your very best diplomatic (and acting) skills to keep children under control; parents from getting paranoid; and family members from fighting. When in doubt take ten long deep breaths, then keep calm and continue. The show must go on!

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)

This week looks somewhat stressful as Mercury (your ruling planet) is in retrograde mode. So it will be very easy to feel unsettled, and obsess over small details and minor matters. And you’ll need to be extra diplomatic if you want to avoid a fraction too much friction. In order to avoid having a veritable Virgo brain snap, heed the wise words of birthday great Quentin Crisp: “Treat all disasters as if they were trivialities, but never treat a triviality as if it were a disaster.”

Solution Page 8

Across

Down

3 Name a slender drooping tree of inland Australia, also known as the bitterbush. (8) 7 What is a term for human beings? (6) 8 Which nuclear devices produce radioactive isotopes? (8) 9 Which musical term relates to the absence of key? (6) 10 To be under-developed, is to be what? (8) 11 What is a qualification conferred by a university, for successful work? (6) 14 Which snakes resemble vipers? (6) 17 That which has depreciated is said to have done what? (8) 18 What is hydrophobia also known as? (6) 19 What is an outdoor cooked meal called? (8) 20 Name a long-range weather forecaster, Lennox ... (6) 21 What do we call members of the upper house of the Australian Parliament? (8)

1 What is a false tooth called? (7) 2 What do we call a person who pays for commercials? (7) 3 Which saloon car has a movable partition behind the driver’s seat? (7) 4 Harry Roger Webb is also known as Sir Cliff ...

(7) 5 What is a small spherical body? (7) 6 What, in NZ, do they call baby rabbits, still in the breeding nest? (7) 11 Name the French composer, best known for his ballet music, Clement Philibert Leo ... (7) 12 Which hormone stimulates secretion by the gastric glands? (7) 13 What is a constituent part of a whole? (7) 14 Who starred in “Mary Poppins” and “The Sound of Music”, Julie ...? (7) 15 Name a spinning game involving a top, string, and two sticks. (7) 16 What else is an umpire often called? (7)

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)

Party-loving Librans love the colourful drama of Yuletide celebrations. Just make sure you’re pulling your weight on Christmas Day – with preparations and cleaning up – otherwise you’ll be in the bad books by Boxing Day. Even though it’s the height of the festive season, strive to make your food choices as healthy and nutritious as possible. With lucky Jupiter bouncing through your sign, 2017 will be a bumper year and Librans need to be in tip-top condition.

Sudoku medium No. 189

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)

When it comes to last minute gift shopping, look for presents that are practical and useful. But, if you spend more than you can comfortably afford this Xmas, then you’ll just end up with a heap of New Year debt. You don’t have to go overboard in order to have a good time. The Moon’s in your sign on the weekend, so avoid getting too intense, serious and stressed. A calm and methodical approach is the best way to handle the ongoing Christmas celebrations.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Have you left most of your Christmas shopping to the last minute… again? If you make a list and pace yourself, then you’ll get the gifts you need without too many problems. Look for creative presents that stimulate the imagination. Do your best to avoid being impatient and superficial when communicating with loved ones on Christmas Day. All is not as it appears so listen to others closely, and then look beneath the surface meaning to decipher what’s really going on.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

With Mercury retrograding through your sign, it’s up to you to handle Xmas celebrations (and misunderstandings) with stacks of Capricorn style and composure.

Be smart enough to rise above silly family squabbles! The positive Saturn/Uranus trine [on the weekend] helps you keep the traditional parts of Christmas. Plus you can also add some exciting new festive flourishes of your own! As birthday great Benjamin Disraeli wrote: “Change is inevitable. Change is constant.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You’re in the mood for Yuletide cheer and holiday hijinks! But, with Mercury in retro mode, erratic thoughts could cloud your judgment. So enjoy the festive celebrations, and leave important decision-making for another time (when you’re thinking more rationally). The Uranus/Saturn trine encourages you to get the balance right between maintaining the status quo, and introducing innovative new ideas. Then you’ll have a satisfying and stimulating Christmas weekend.

Solution Page 8

ABN 57 008 653 683

Sudoku hard No.188

Crossword No. 577

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

6295 2844

Unit 9, 71 Leichhardt Street, Kingston

Solutions from last edition

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

With Mars moving through your sign (from Monday until January 28) it’s time to become as motivated and proactive as a Piscean can possibly be. Do your utmost to capitalise on the extra energy surge while it lasts! Mars also boosts your innate compassion, creativity and spirituality. So make sure you celebrate Christmas in a way that is special, beautiful and meaningful for you and your family. Be inspired by birthday great Annie Lennox: “Make kindness your daily modus operandi.”

Last week I drove to Westfield Woden and was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to park. I did my shopping and then decided to treat myself to a takeaway.

While asking a question about one of the dishes, the takeaway owner came over and said: “Are you Gail? I read all your columns in ‘City News’.”

“Yes, that’s me,’ I said. “How’s business?”

“Not very well,” he said.

“There aren’t enough customers coming through and the rents are too high compared with the amount that we can earn in this centre.”

I told him I had thought the car park was a little empty for this time of the year and commiserated that trading times were hard.

I ate my meal and decided to talk to one of my clients, who also runs a takeaway at Woden.

He gave me the same story of high rents, insufficient customers and businesses going broke. He really believed that if something wasn’t done soon Westfield Woden would not have any viable food stores left in its food court.

As I left, it struck me how hard it is for small businesses to do well in big shopping centres.

The next day another client rang complaining that business was very slow, “much slower than this time last year”.

He and I had discussed a couple of months ago how trading in Canberra was always very slow when there was an election and this year there had been two!

I asked how his trading had been over the year.

“May, June and July were all very slow. By August, I almost threw in the towel, but after our discussion about the impact of elections on retail in Canberra, we decided to keep trading,” he said.

“In August, sales started to improve but by September they had slowed again. October was equally poor and the situation in November, when we were expecting an increase, was not any better.

“In this industry, more than 50 per cent of our year’s turnover occurs in the run up to Christmas and what we can generate in the January sales. Our January turnover is, of course, at a reduced profit.

“So the situation is dire. I feel that if we don’t do something to increase our sales between now and January, I may have to close.”

I told him I hadn’t realised how bad things were.

“If it’s any consolation you are not the only one feeling the pinch,” I reassured him. “I have recently spoken to a couple of other traders who are also struggling.

“I suggest that we get together next week and review your financial statements. I have a few ideas that might help you get rid of some of your excess stock and increase your sales. This will certainly improve your cashflow.”

He said; “Thanks Gail, that sounds really good.”

If you need any help with your business contact the friendly team at Gail Freeman & Co

Listen to our tax tips on 2CA and 2CC (Chartered accountant, SMSF specialist advisor and Authorised Representative of Lifespan Financial Planning Pty Ltd AFS Lic No. 229892)

info@gailfreeman.com.au • www.gailfreeman.com.au Follow us on Facebook

• Follow us on Twitter @gailfreemantax

CityNews December 15, 2016-January 2, 2017 27

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