180426 citynews

CITYNEWS.COM.AU / FAST NEWS, VIEWS, ARTS AND SOCIALS APRIL 26, 2018

Well written, well read

EDDIE’S DREAM DUMPLINGS

What is it about pollies and trees?

PAUL COSTIGAN Dog park may need bouncers!

MIKE WELSH Reluctant Libs reboot as financial tough guys MICHAEL MOORE

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NEWS

Craig’s odd-bods head down the Hume

By Danielle Nohra

ON a muggy and overcast Australia Day morning, Canberra author Craig Cormick began his drive down the Hume Highway, picking up hitchhikers Captain Cook, Henry Lawson, Caroline Chisholm and Ned Kelly along the way.

It seems like an unlikely combination of travel companions but Craig, 57, of Belconnen, pulls them together in his new book “Backseat Drivers”, which will be launched on May 10, at the National Library of Australia.

Stemming from Craig’s interest in history and creative interpretations, the book evolved from the idea of travelling with figures from the past, who then comment on the present.

“What would Captain Cook make of Sydney?” he asks. “Or what would Ned Kelly think of Melbourne?”

“The book looks at some key points of Australian history that have occurred along the Hume Highway, including the Cronulla race riots of 2005, the internment of German civilians at Berrima during World War I, and the Black Saturday Bushfires in Victoria of 2009,” he says.

And, of course, as a Canberran himself, there is a detour through the ACT, where the hitchhikers from the past are confounded by the contradictions of the city.

Craig moved to Canberra with his parents as a high school student, while his parents ran the newsagency in Manuka.

Coming from a family of storytellers, often gathering to tell stories, Craig’s known he wanted to be a writer since he was little.

It was at the age of 30, in 1991, when Craig published his first book, and now, “Backseat Drivers” will be his 30th.

INDEX

Author Craig Cormick… “It is now possible to drive the Hume in about 12 hours, but you’d miss all the stories that exist along the way.”

Photo by Danielle Nohra “This book attempts to capture many of those stories that have been bypassed by both the highway and by many histories – but not just captured through my eyes as the author, also through the eyes of these characters from our past,” he says.

Almost like a “join-the-dots” puzzle, Craig links the Hume Highway along the way, connecting small towns with each other, while following the journey of Hamilton Hume and William Hovell.

“They took over three months to walk from Sydney to Melbourne and back – fighting most of the way it should be added,” he says.

“It is now possible to drive the Hume in about 12 hours, but you’d miss all the stories that exist along the way.

“When I went through small communities and talked to people there, I noticed a lot of people live outside the main narrative of Australian politics and economics.

“The Australian society is made up of many diverse voices. It’s important we travel through life with different people who challenge and question our ideas.”

While writing the novel, Craig found that these hitchhikers from the past even challenged his own opinions.

When Craig, who had always been a fan of Ned Kelly, spoke with a police officer while driving through “Ned Kelly country”, he heard from him that he saw Ned Kelly as a “cop killer” as opposed to a “hero”.

“I want people to reconsider alternative ways of looking at the past and present and question what Australia’s future is,” he says.

“People sense Australian history is made up of these big stories but they forget about the smaller ones.

“I’d like people to also imagine making journeys with figures from the past to help them understand Australia’s future.”

In preparation for the book, Craig did a lot of research and read a lot of works written by the “hitchhikers” in order to jump into their voices but it was the initial idea of this book and many others that always gets his writing to the finish line.

“There’s a moment where the idea hits you and it becomes consuming. It stays with you 24 hours a day and writing that book is putting that idea to rest,” he says.

And now that “Backseat Drivers” has been put to bed, Craig is already tackling with a new idea for a book, which features Captain Cook.

“Backseat Drivers” book launch, National Library of Australia, 6pm, May 10.

BRIEFLY Lots more Lego THERE’S to be another Lego exhibition fundraiser next month for the Woden School at Deakin, a secondary school and college for students with special needs.

“Bricks @ The Woden School”, organised for the fifth time by the school’s Parents and Citizens Association, is aimed at raising funds for a bus and equipment.

The Canberra Lego Users Group helps organise the exhibition, which will be held at the school, 127 Denison Street, Deakin, 9am-4pm, Saturday, May 5 and 9am-2pm on Sunday, May 6. Admission is $5 ($3 a child and $15 a family).

Pegasus open day THE Pegasus disabled horse-riding charity’s annual open day, which will feature horse demonstrations, horse parades, tractor rides, music, food, stalls and more, will be held at Pegasus Farm, 119 Drake Brockman Drive, Holt, 10am-3pm, on Saturday, May 5.

Trivia. Howzat?

THE Rotary Club of Canberra Sunrise is promising a night of fun, trivia, raffles, a silent auction and more when it raises funds for DreamCricket activities at its trivia night at the Hellenic Club, Woden, 7pm, on Friday, June 1. DreamCricket provides Canberra region primary school students with a disability the opportunity to learn the skills of cricket in a supportive and fun environment. Bookings to the trivia night are essential. Tickets: $31.50.

Book individual or group tickets, or a table of 10, at trybooking.com/353209

Since 1993: Volume 24, Number 14

Arts & Entertainment 19-21 Cinema 20 Crossword 23 Dining 21 Gardening 22 Horoscopes 23 Letters 9 News 3-10 Politics 6 Socials 13 Sizzling, hot Cuban ballet!

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SEVEN DAYS

Dog park may need bouncers!

BOUNCERS may soon be needed at the Tuggeranong dog park after a scathing post on social media forced the site’s moderator to close the comments option.

The Facebook post, which attracted more than 320 contributions, many threatening and vitriolic, alleged bullying and intimidation by regular users.

“Dog owners in Tuggeranong, especially at the dog park between 9 and 10, hang your heads in the shameful act [sic] you were involved in… my neighbour came home in tears saying because of one person that thought her dog was savage you all ganged up and kicked her out!”

STILL on doggy dos and don’ts; a north Canberra hairdresser, frustrated that her advertising board was being used as a toilet by local canines, took drastic action. Lyneham Hair Fashions attached a note to the sandwich board requesting humans to point their pets’ private parts in another direction.

Owner Marisa Farrell says since the area became more dog friendly

THE universal and dependable icebreaker in social situations is to talk about the weather.

Social chatter in Canberra at this time of year is often centred around the unwritten but immutable law which forbids the firing up (regardless of fuel source) of any form of domestic heating until Anzac Day. But as the deadline approached some locals have confessed to a more cavalier approach and have been “enjoying our fires for weeks.”

THE reality of keeping warm during a Canberra winter is a far greater priority for some in our city than adhering to a rigid ritual based Hairdresser Marisa Farrell’s much-abused sandwich board.

Photo by Mike Welsh around April 25. A high percentage of renters in the capital are being forced to “camp out”. people tether their pets to the sign and she is According to a new report published by Better forced to deal with what they invariably leave Renting, four out of 10 rental properties have behind. zero energy efficiency ratings (EER). Better Renting director Joel Dignam says renters are ON New Year’s Day, 1992, four Canberra “being left to suffer in the worst properties on siblings took an aircraft flight they’ll probably the market”. He says almost half of renters are never forget. The story was retold this week living in “glorified tents that do virtually nothing after the death of former US First Lady Barbara to keep inhabitants safe and comfortable.”

Bush. President George Bush and Mrs Bush were visiting Sydney and, following a function IS the local food industry being impacted at Kirribilli House, were required to fly to by the contemporary craze of Netflix and Canberra to address the Federal parliament. home-delivered food? That’s the opinion of The Bushes kindly invited the children of then one local expert following the abrupt closure PM Paul Keating – Katherine, Alexandra, of Jamie’s in Civic. The restaurant – which has Caroline and Patrick – to join them on Air struggled since opening in late 2013 – closed Force One for the flight to Canberra. without notice on April 16 leaving 40 stranded.

The closure, according to the foodie insider may be due, in part, to basic economics and a lack of motivation. Flopping on the couch, turning on Netflix and ordering in is apparently “less than a quarter of the effort”.

NEWS / Pawl Cubbin

Canberra advertising pioneer dead at 57 PAWL Cubbin, Canberra’s best known advertising man, has died suddenly. He was 57.

had known Pawl for 15 years, said “he always lifted the bar and was always a fair competitor”.

He recalled that Cubbin had been “When I started in the industry, Pawl the “brainchild” behind the start of the Cubbin and Zoo were the benchmark,” regional airline Rex. says Jamie Wilson, friend and founding Earlier this month Cubbin shocked director of competing agency the local media industry by Coordinate. “He was passionannouncing the closure of ate, intelligent and creative. his 20-year Canberra agency “He was a pioneer of Zoo on May 4. It was the the advertising industry in foundation agency that Canberra and has left an spawned outposts in Sydney, indelible mark.”

Melbourne and Singapore.

Describing it as one of He described the decision the saddest days of his life, to close as a strategic one that former Zoo Group chairman reflected the changing profile Roger Smeed said he had of businesses in Canberra.

Pawl Cubbin. known Pawl Cubbin for Despite the Canberra setnearly 30 years. back, Cubbin said he planned to progress “He was the most talented graphic the Zoo brand in Sydney, Singapore and designer I’d ever met,” says Smeed. “He other places. was always full of enthusiasm with an However, on Friday (April 20) the naunbelievable work ethic. tional trade magazine “AdNews” reported “But he had talent in more than that the Zoo Group’s Sydney office had advertising and graphic design. He was entered into liquidation in February. a very successful owner of restaurants The Melbourne office also entered into and an outstandingly successful property liquidation in November. developer, whose roots were always in “I’ve done some good things and things Canberra. that haven’t gone well, but I’m not going “People who worked for him loved him to disappear from the industry,” he said. and he returned it in spades. I send my His passing coincided with the closure heartfelt sympathy to all his family.” of one of his property and hospitality Another colleague, James Willson, investments, Academy nightclub, in Civic founder of the Cre8ive agency, who on April 21.

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POLITICS / banking royal commission

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6 CityNews April 26-May 2, 2018

Reluctant Libs reboot to tough guys on finance DON’T hold your breath in expectation of a government apology for opposing and delaying the Banking Royal Commission.

As they sidestep a proper apology, expect a reframing, embracing and claiming credit for outcomes from the Royal Commission. Expect a rewriting of reluctantly being dragged kicking and screaming to establish the inquiry.

The government would have you believe they were already taking tough action.

They argue: “The inquiry will not defer, delay or limit, in any way, any proposed or announced policy, legislation or regulation that we are currently implementing”.

Announcement of tougher penalties strangely coinciding with revelations at the Banking Royal Commission of unethical, unscrupulous and unprincipled conduct by some of our major financial institutions.

The influence of the finance sector over the government was on show in the lead up to the final decision to establish a “Royal Commission into the alleged misconduct of Australia’s banks and other financial services entities”. The financial sector did not want its dirty laundry or dodgy practices aired in public and the government were trying to protect these mates.

The “rumours” of misconduct did not move Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull. It was the Federal Parliament. He saw the writing on the wall. He argued again and again that there was already enough oversight built into the financial systems.

His reluctance, his support for the financial sector, was obvious even in his statement establishing the inquiry: “Ongoing speculation and fear-mongering about a banking inquiry or Royal Commission is disruptive and risks undermining the reputation of Australia’s world-class financial system”.

Speculation and fear mongering! The evidence is now coming through loud and clear. In the banking sector there is much more than “speculation and fear mongering”. Those who pushed for the inquiry apparently do not move in the same circles nor receive the large donations to the Liberal Party.

The Prime Minister’s arguments included: “We have one of the strongest and most stable

The government should be squirming. Resisting the Royal Commission was simply daft policy and daft politics. banking, superannuation and financial services industries in the world, performing a critical role in underpinning the Australian economy. Our banking system is systemically strong with internationally recognised world’s best prudential regulation and oversight”.

The government is now singing from a different hymn book. Former Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce at least had the good grace to apologise “as beyond disturbing” dire revelations surface. He told ABC Radio National Drive program: “My previous position of not wanting a royal commission was wrong. So I was wrong.”

“Point scoring” is the response of Scott Morrison. Financial Services Minister Kelly O’Dwyer, who was opposed to a royal commission, has now launched a series of tough laws on financial institutions claiming they were consistent with the Federal government’s longterm intention to pull the financial services sector into line. The penalties include 10 years gaol for criminal offences and for corporations fines up to $210 million.

The government should be squirming. Resisting the Royal Commission was simply daft policy and daft politics. Accepting large donations delivers daft political outcomes. Ordinary folk will see the irony in the Prime Minister’s statement: “Trust in a well-functioning banking and financial services industry promotes financial system stability, growth, efficiency and innovation over the long term”.

Erosion of trust is increasing in both the financial sector and in government.

Michael Moore is a former member of the ACT Legislative Assembly and has been a political columnist since 2006.

CANBERRA MATTERS / ACT Tree Week, April 30-May 6

What is it about pollies when it comes to trees?

TO quote from a colleague’s blog: “We once sat next to a GP on a plane who explained that humans are really all just primates, and primates have a basic need to see green living things”.

This may explain why, when driving out of Sydney, I often choose the longer route through the Royal National Park. The sight of all those bushes and trees is amazing and adds much pleasure to the journey.

Recently on a stop-over in Mittagong I picked up its equivalent to “CityNews”. The story that dominated the pages was about a council proposal to upgrade Bowral’s Station Street (the one by the railway) to a four-lane bypass.

There, alongside many objections (budget overrun, conflict of interest, heritage, loss of railway commuter parking etcetera), was the stand out. The council had agreed to the loss of 153 cherished trees that provide a glorious canopy to one side of this regional centre. Residents are stunned that councillors were keen to degrade the ambience and natural beauty of the city – the reason why people continue to move to the Southern Highlands.

It was with some anguish that I read on my return that the ACT government, with its tarnished reputation on urban redevelopment, is “consulting” on the future of the

When I see that word ‘heritage’ linked to the government’s intentions for the inner north, I worry how bad things are going to go for any heritage (buildings and landscapes). inner north.

To quote: “We are looking at how to best use our available land to meet the needs of the current community and the future residents, while preserving the much-loved character and heritage of the area”.

In late 2016 I remember listening to the Planning Minister badly reading a bureaucratically prepared speech at a pre-election heritage meeting. Besides wondering how I would ever get back those 30 minutes, I learnt that night about the limits of this guy’s understanding of heritage. So when I see that word “heritage” being linked to the government’s intentions for the inner north, I worry how bad things are going to go for any heritage (buildings and landscapes) with my neighbourhood.

As for the fabulous ambience of the inner north and its urban forests, the notion that this government is now eyeing off what he terms to be “available land” – could only mean that every tree is now on formal notice.

Across Canberra there are numerous proposals that could each

reduce the number of trees and the biodiversity on the relevant site.

The total number of trees presently under threat across the inner north is enormous. Before any developments are to be considered within Canberra, planners should first consider the environment – and, as part of that, should consider how a development could enhance, not diminish, Canberra’s urban forests and biodiversity.

In response to the Dickson Parklands consultations, I posed two key questions ahead of all others – namely: Is there an Urban Tree Strategy that any developments on the Parklands site or elsewhere in the Dickson area are being assessed against? – and – Does the planning for the Parklands site consider what climate change adaptation measures will be insisted on for all redevelopment on the site?

These questions point to something missing within the ACT government’s current approach to

planning and development. While we have a band of talented arborists to look after individual trees, we lack an agency within government that is charged with the task of being the stewards of the totality of our urban forests.

I often wonder whether the present government has lost its humanity and has failed to grasp the legacy it has inherited – being the city’s life-enriching and beautiful urban trees. Well-designed developments can enhance the biodiversity, increase the urban forests, and contribute positively to the required climate change measures. Surely there must be someone in this government who could show leadership by being serious about the stewardship of the environment – and therefore trees.

Paul Costigan is an independent commentator and consultant on the visual arts, photography, urban design, environmental issues and everyday life matters.

Celebrated forrester PETER MARSHALL is grumpy about the tree planting along the tram tracks...

I HOPE the authorities in charge of the light rail project know more about engineering than they do about tree planting. Long, whippy, pot-bound eucalypts don’t appreciate being moved from sheltered nurseries to windswept sites. Even less do they like being hammered into tough ground and poisoned by alkaline concrete rubble.

I suggest the authorities invest in an equal number of $2 seedlings and tuck them next to the advanced trees. Then commuters can watch trees growing instead of trees dying.

And ‘CityNews’ gardening writer CEDRIC BRYANT is equally distraught…

THE tree planting along The new “long, whippy, the tram track has now pot-bound eucalypts”. commenced on the tram- Photo by Cedric Bryant way. And it is madness.

They are being planted while construction is still going on with huge machinery, still pouring concrete and no proper soil preparation.

I have been told (but cannot yet confirm) that the trees are root bound having been grown in rigid pots and the holes dug with an auger – an absolute no-no!

The method of planting is out of the ark. Even the trees are tall, spindly specimens.

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A P H . G O V. A U / 3 0 T H CityNews April 26-May 2, 2018 7

NEWS

Modest Mal takes the prize as pool lap legend

By Kathryn Vukovljak

UP at dawn to swim several kilometres most mornings, the Dickson Aquatic Centre Lap Legends log their laps over the outdoor swim season for the health benefits, the sunrises and the camaraderie.

Lap Legends is a voluntary, honestybased competition run by the pool to encourage the locals to record their laps for the season, says managing director Chris Graham, who brought it to Dickson in 2002 when he saw a similar activity run at a pool in Victoria.

Chris Graham... “It’s not about being the best, but it’s about being the best that you can.”

“I saw a board they had up and prizes were given for certain kilometres, so from there I developed my own version of it,” says Chris.

“It started off that at a certain point you’d get a free coffee or a pair of goggles and from that it evolved into a community-oriented event at the end of the season.

“Originally, I had this big board with kilometres on for places around Canberra, so people would try to reach those destinations. From there it developed a bit of a cult following!

“It’s been a thing that brings people together and inspires them to keep going, because they’re writing it down every day. The last three weeks of the season people get a lot more motivated!

“It’s not about being the best, but it’s about being the best that you can.”

The season ended in mid-March and this year’s winner, Mal Wilson, who’s been competing in Lap Legends since it started, clocked up 388 kilometres this year.

“Chris and Shay, who run the pool, sponsor some swanky prizes that are given away at the Lap Legend party at the end of the year,” he says.

“If you don’t do at least 77.7 kilometres by the season’s end you don’t make the cut for the party, so an extraordinary number of people swim about 80 kilometres.”

Although he’s the current Lap Legend, Mal, 56, humbly points out that “I

Dickson Aquatic Centre Lap Legends, from left, Sarah Bunker, Craig Johns, John Fleming, Hannah Hobson, Ben Carmody, Mal Wilson, Jenny Kitchen, Peter Haynes, Sasha Basic, Stuart Godley, Jill Pettiffer, Mark French, Jane McCallum, Jenny Weir and Ben Buchler.

Photos by Carl Davies am not worthy”.

“Previous Lap Legends have clocked up figures like 716 kilometres, though that requires you to be a Commonwealth Games gold medallist, like Marty Roberts two years back, but I managed only a paltry 388 kilometres,” he says.

“Given my advancing years and my three shoulder reconstructions, it’s certainly a commendable effort but in most other years it would have had me well off the podium.

“All the guys I swim with are very definitely morning people and are fun to be around,” he says.

“The idea of recording total laps swum is brilliant as it gives you some kind of target to chase for the season.

“There has always been a huge amount of banter and even the odd good-natured sledge, but fundamentally we’re all there for our health, the beautiful clear water, the stunning sunrises and, for many, the coffee and

chat afterwards.

“Some of the people are ocean swimmers and if you go to an ocean swim at the south coast it would be a very rare occasion indeed where three or four of the award winners were not from the Dickson Aquatic Centre fast lane.”

Anyone who fancies their chances as a Lap Legend will have to wait until the next swimming season when the Dickson Aquatic Centre reopens in late October.

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LETTERS Labor fiddles as the battlers suffer JON Stanhope’s column (“How Labor has turned its back on Canberra’s battlers”, CN, April 19), on battlers being bashed will have struck a chord with all who care about decent, affordable housing.

Looking at the middle-class nonentities that run the ACT Labor Party the words of Kim Beazley come to mind.

He said: “The Labor Party was run by the cream of the working class. Now it’s run by the dregs of the middle class.”

As in the case with much of Canberra’s public housing units they are being pulled down to make way for expensive units the previous tenants would not be able to afford. We have lost about 3000 public housing units in the last 20 years. We have the second highest

pro rata number of homeless in any Australian city and this ACT Labor government fiddles with light rail while St Vinnies and other social service organisations are battling to help people on low incomes survive.

The Liberal Party is deafeningly silent on homelessness. Our two Federal MP’s have fingers blocking their ears.

I will be finding an independent or Caroline Le Couteur [Greens] to vote for at the next election.

Naming her as my choice is probably the kiss of death for her. But all of us who have an interest in Canberra will be aware of her untiring efforts for the needy.

P.S. I used to be a member of the Labor Party.

EX- GOVERNMENT

FURNITURE

Howard Carew, via email

Anyone seen the integrity commission?

PSSST! Anybody seen the ACT ICAC aka ACT Integrity Commission?

You know, that body the London Circuit mob promised us 18 months ago when seeking our votes.

Has it been kidnapped? Is it being held in a dark and dingy cellar, its toothless mouth gaffer taped lest it spill the beans on Canberra’s gangsters?

Are venal forces preparing to dump its emaciated body in the lake to escape a spell in the Katy Gallagher Wing of the Alexander Maconochie Centre? If found, please notify the Commission Abuse authorities.

Bill O’Connell, via email

Another billion to get the buses right CANBERRA’S rapid bus network (“Fitzharris plans ‘more frequent’ bus services”, citynews.com.au, April 20) was expected to deliver Labor’s commitment to 16 per cent of journeys to work by public transport in 2026.

It is performing well below expectations. The public transport share of journeys to work increased from 7.8 per cent in 2011 to only 8.2 per cent in 2016. That’s less than the combined increase in walking and cycling, which was achieved at much lower cost.

Worse still, the expected reduction in car use simply

did not happen. Car driving increased more than did public transport!

Light rail’s greater amenity and higher vehicle speeds will be offset by less frequent services, longer walks to stops and increased waiting for connecting services. The rapid bus network may be able to deliver the promised extra passengers, but only at the cost of an extra billion dollar investment in buses.

Leon Arundell, Downer

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Cannabis call ‘unbelievable’

Nichole’s pure platinum!

THE Greens’ promotion of legalised cannabis and virtually unrestricted access to illegal toxic drugs will increase the numbers of our youth handcuffed to drugs for life – or death.

It seems unbelievable that such proposals would lead to a substantial reduction in drug-free lives instead of drug harm.

The illogical and unreasonable arguments we are hearing have held politicians in drug-policy handcuffs for too long.

“YESTERDAYS” columnist Nichole Overall is so talented. Every column she writes keeps the reader hungry for more. I’ve been on one of her “Queanbeyan by Moonlight” events and was blown away by her research skills.

You have struck platinum having her on your team… what a talented and gifted lady she is!

Colliss Parrett, Drug Advisory Council Australia, Barton

Gary Bradley, via email

WRITE TO US

Let loose to: editor@citynews.com.au or write to the editor at: 9b / 189 Flemington Road, Mitchell 2911

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www.exgovfurniture.com sales@exgovfurniture.com Find us on CityNews April 26-May 2, 2018 9

FAIR TRADING / dodgy sellers

NEWS

No-go tickets mean no show PICTURE this: your favourite singer is coming to Canberra (yes, Canberra!) as part of an upcoming tour! Woo hoo!

Mother Sally Richards with Jackson West and support worker and driver Sandor Collins.

Photo by Danielle Nohra

Twelve years on and busy Jackson’s still delivering

By Danielle Nohra

WHEN JACKmail, a business that Sally Richards set up for her profoundly disabled son, Jackson West, hit two years she couldn’t believe it and now, it’s in its twelfth year, she’s amazed.

Sally, 65, of Yarralumla, spent many sleepless nights worrying about her son’s future before creating JACKmail, a courier service that offers mail pickup and delivery for businesses in the inner-south of Canberra.

Jackson, 32, has Phelan-McDermid syndrome, a small deletion of chromosome 22, and because of this needs support in everything that he does.

“I knew that nobody was going to give him a job, but I thought that doesn’t mean he shouldn’t have a job,” she says.

Early one morning Sally started to list the things that Jackson can do.

“He is able to carry objects, he loves going in the car and he loves music,” she says.

“Those four very simple things: mobility, strong hands, love of music and love of driving are the elements I focused

on to develop a business for him.

“The work had to be regular and predictable as this job has a deeper focus of forming relationships and of people getting to know Jackson very well. I wanted him to be missed if he didn’t turn up to work.”

And nearly 12 years down the track, Sally says Jackson is missed when he’s not there to deliver the mail.

“More importantly, he is not seen as a passive receiver of funding, support, time, energy and resources,” she says.

“He is seen as a contributor, a worker, a man about town, a man with a business, a uniform, a car, a colleague, a purpose and an income.”

Jackson’s support worker and JACKmail’s driver, Sandor Collins, 45, agrees and says Jackson often makes people’s day.

“Jackson’s smile’s infectious. Whenever you hand a mail bag to him, he loves it. He knows his job and takes it,” he says.

“I think a lot of the businesses would rather use JACKmail because they’re proud of the fact that they’re helping Jackson and he’s helping them.”

While it’s been a long and difficult journey for Sally and Jackson, Sally is overwhelmed by the quality of life

JACKmail has given him.

“It’s hard to know what’s caused it, but basically over the years Jackson has become more responsive, more social and happier,” she says.

“My goal was always for Jackson to have a life of his own. People with disability are often seen as people that use up energy and resources so it’s important people see him in a positive life, too.”

Sally says Jackson now has a legitimate and valued place in the ACT business community.

“People greet him; not just people in the offices he delivers to, but people in the street, the JACKmail car is distinctive and he has quite a reputation in Canberra,” she says.

While Sally loves how the JACKmail model is helping Jackson, she says businesses sometimes move to a new suburb out of the JACKmail area of business or, in one case, they moved their mail operations to another city.

“We now have an opening to take on several new customers and would love to hear from any business in the south of Canberra who could use the services of JACKmail,” she says.

You quickly Google the concert and buy what you think are the best tickets in the house. As the event quickly sells out you feel just a little smug that you purchased your tickets so quickly and from the first website your search engine turned up. What luck!

On the day of the show, you turn up with your tickets in hand or the ticket barcode on your phone for scanning, pumped and ready to rock it out.

But before the curtain even rises, it closes, as you discover that your tickets are not worth the paper they are printed on. Unfortunately, in your haste to secure tickets you bought fake ones through an unofficial seller.

So the only rocking you’ll be doing is back and forth as you realise you’ve not only missed the gig but have lost a couple of hundred dollars.

Thinking this couldn’t happen to you or in Canberra? The above is actually a scenario that our local venues see play out all too often as people are duped by dodgy online ticket resellers.

Canberrans can also be stung as they often travel interstate for shows or sporting matches so not only lose out on the cost of the ticket, but any associated accommodation, travel and other costs.

To help spread awareness of this issue Access Canberra is partnering with the Raiders, Canberra Theatre and Canberra United, as

well as some local music talent, to remind the community of how they can protect themselves from dodgy, online ticket resellers.

On game-day screens and before shows there will be messages from our sporting and music greats.

In practical terms it’s important to: • Check the artist or event’s official verified pages for the authorised ticket sellers; • I f you search for the event online, look out for advertising that often sees ticket resellers appear before the link to the official ticket seller; • I f you are buying a ticket from a reseller, you should double check that the price is in Australian dollars, you know where your seat allocation is (if applicable) and the final price compares to the official ticket price for the same tickets – watch for any extra fees at checkout.

And, as always, read the terms and conditions (the fine print!) before buying tickets to any event.

This is your contract with the ticketing agent and it’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities. Keep all information you have about it, including ticket receipts, in case of any dispute later.

If an event is cancelled, you are entitled to a full refund from the company that sold you the ticket.

Remember, if you’re buying tickets from a private seller instead of a business (such as on an online marketplace), Australian Consumer Law does not apply and you will not be able to get a refund.

If you have difficulty receiving a refund for a failed event from the ticketing company contact your bank for a credit card chargeback.

More information at act.gov.au/ fairtrading or consumerlaw.gov.au/ Tickets David Snowden is the ACT Fair Trading commissioner.

Interested businesses in the inner-south can call Sally on 0402 418974.

the good earth

PSYCHIC FAIR Saturday April 28th 2018 • 10-5pm Hughes Community Centre, Wisdom St, Hughes (at the Hughes Shops) Psychic Readers and Mediums, Healers, Crystals, Jewellery, Boots, Tarot, Fairies, Dragons, Candles, Wicca, Goddesses, Shamanism, Spirituality $5 entry includes FREE WORKSHOPS ALL DAY

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10 CityNews April 26-May 2, 2018

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YAT BUN TONG / Braddon and Belconnen

advertising feature

‘My passion came as a young child, from my mum, who is very good at cooking’

Chef Eddie reckons his dumplings are Canberra’s best HANDMADE from a special family recipe, the dumplings at Yat Bun Tong are the best in Canberra, says owner and chef Eddie Leng.

Eddie, who has almost 20 years’ experience as a chef, first opened Yat Bun Tong on Lonsdale Street, Braddon, in March, 2016.

The success of the Braddon location led to Eddie sharing his dream in Belconnen too, with another Yat Bun Tong opening on Lathlain Street in December.

“Because of this I want to thank all our regular customers, both those who dine in and get takeaway, as well as any new customers,” Eddie says.

“They are the people who help me continue my dream every week.”

With a second location, Eddie says people now have double the choice to enjoy crowd favourites, such as the Shanghai pan-fried pork bun.

Much of his inspiration comes from the northern part of China and, most importantly, Eddie’s mum, who handmakes the dough for the dumplings and buns.

“My passion came as a young child, from my mum, who is very good at cooking,” he says.

“The passion is still there and I’m always inspired to make the flavours perfect.”

Eddie’s supportive wife Yang Yang Shen, who also believes the dumplings are the best in town, says the food is a modern, western take on traditional Chinese food.

“The food is always fresh and we have unique items on the menu such as dumplings where the dough is made with broccoli and spinach or carrots,” she says.

The atmosphere and the decor also complement the modern, western take on China with handmade artworks and old, Chinese-style furniture.

As for the service, Yang Yang says the waitstaff make every customer feel comfortable and satisfied.

Fully licensed, Yat Bun Tong has special wine to complement the dishes and can help with recommendations for any meal such as the popular sizzling fillet steak with shallots and XO sauce or the Peking duck with pancakes.

Whether it’s takeaway, in-house dining in small groups or larger groups in the private room for functions and special events, Yang Yang says people won’t be disappointed with the food and definitely not the dumplings.

Top from left, dumplings in the making, Shanghai pan-fried pork buns and chef Yaohua Hu with a plate of dumplings.

Bottom from left, pan-fried pork dumplings, a steamer of mixed vegetable dumplings and Yat Bun Tong’s Peking duck with pancakes.

Yat Bun Tong, 10 Lonsdale Street, Braddon, call 6152 0880, and Level 3, Westfield Belconnen, on Lathlain Street, call 6251 8887. Visit @yatbuntongdumplinghouse on Facebook.

Best dumplings in Canberra AT YAT BUN TONG’S TWO GREAT LOCATIONS 10 Lonsdale Street, Braddon Phone: 6152 0880

Westfield Belconnen, Lathlain Street (street access only), Belconnen Phone: 6251 8887 Find us on Facebook @yatbuntongdumplinghouse CityNews April 26-May 2, 2018 11

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SCENE / around canberra

Photos by ANA STUART

At the Spanish film festival’s opening night, Acton

At opening of ‘Material Fixations’ exhibition, Manuka

Guatemalan ambassador Connie Taracena, Estuardo Secaira and Ines Lamas

Corinne and Wayde Chalmers

Christel Moller and Stephanie Jenkins

Laura and Anthony Bohua with Mercedes Magaz and Lorena Solar

Enrique Fernandez with Rosita and Jackie Garcia

Glenva Parker, Athena Cains and Annelie Mitchell

Spanish ambassador Manuel Cacho, Elesa Narvaez, Maide Cacho and Carlos Arevalo

Mike Wright and Joe Croke

Malcolm and Jane Farr with Pilar Perez

Artist Rachel Powell and Ellen Dalton

Daryl, Annie and Bec Harris

Romero Maia and David Broker

Neil Doody and Amanda Biggs

Jackson McLeod and Dawn Hayter

Campbell Chalmers and Romany Fairall

Alexander Boynes and Alex Lundy

At launch of the third edition of ‘Canberra Secrets’

Emma Wade, author Margie Wade and Alana Wade

Mio Kuhnen and Helen Aitken-Kuhnen

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.

Lelde Vitols and Chris Reid

Glenda and Trad Wallace with John Ignatius and Gaynor Evans

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.

Ian and Lynne McLean

Greg Bayliss, PJ Williams, John Mackay and Colette Mackay CityNews April 26-May 2, 2018 13

Now

Enrolling Kindergarten – Year 6

ST THOMAS MORE’S PRIMARY SCHOOL

WHITE CRESCENT, CAMPBELL

BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL CARE FOCUS ON THE ARTS CATERING TO ALL NEEDS CODING CLUB ENRICHMENT CLASSES • A contributing community of thinkers & inquirers • FIND US ON FACEBOOK

Our students are curious, collaborative and connected.

Our teachers have a heart for the individual and a mind for possibilities.

24 White Cresent, Campbell ACT 2612. Phone: 02 6249 8869 FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST… FAST NEWS FIRST…

FAST NEWS FIRST

SCHOOL OPEN DAYS

There’s lots to learn about in picking the right school SCHOOL open days and information evenings for Catholic, private or public schools are an important opportunity for parents and potential students to gain an insight into the everyday learning of Canberra’s educational centres.

Whether it be for children, teenagers or young adults, visitors can discover what each has to offer for the 2019 school year.

All for the love of learning WITH a mission to provide a quality education, promote a love of learning and nurture the potential of all, St Thomas More’s, a Catholic primary school in the heart of Canberra, produces students who are curious, collaborative and connected.

Principal Julie Wiley says with a school expectation for students to “respect more”, “think more” and “encourage more”, the students think creatively and critically and take responsibility for their learning.

“All students are encouraged to challenge themselves and develop a love of learning,” she says.

“The students make choices about their learning and are supportive of one another, celebrating each other’s achievements.

“Risk-taking is encouraged and supported in a safe and accepting classroom environment.”

Julie says the staff at St Thomas More’s ensure they are providing authentic experiences with real world connections.

“Learning experiences are authentic and students are able to make links between their existing knowledge and new learning,” she says.

With about 50 per cent of St Thomas More’s students from Defence families, the school is familiar with the challenges these students experience and endeavour

to create a secure environment of self-esteem and self-reliance.

“Inclusive education is fully supported at St Thomas More’s,” she says.

During St Thomas More’s open day on Monday, May 7, there will be three guided tours at 9am, 10am and 12pm.

St Thomas More’s Primary School. 24 White Crescent, Campbell. Call 6249 8869, email office.stmore@ cg.catholic.edu.au or visit stmore.act.edu.au

Inclusive school that’s all about everybody TWENTY years on and St Mary MacKillop College continues to invite all different kinds of students and families into its community, says principal Michael Lee. “The gifted and the challenged are well represented in our classrooms, and all different faiths, cultural and socio-economic backgrounds find success here,” he says.

Inclusiveness spreads into the school’s staff, with teachers who also come from a range of backgrounds and walks of life.

“They are passionate about the school’s vision, well-qualified, come from a range of backgrounds and firmly believe that each student has a right to learn, to be challenged intellectually and to be given opportunities that broaden their experiences and perspectives,” he says.

Since its opening, Michael says the school has gone from strength to strength and is now Canberra’s largest secondary school, providing a Catholic pathway for year 7-12 students who have a range of talents, 14 CityNews April 26-May 2, 2018

interests and backgrounds.

As a large school, he says it has many advantages, such as a wide range of curriculum options, extensive facilities, great teachers and plenty of sports and co-curricular choices.

He also believes its two-campus structure means students enjoy a learning environment where they are known, understood, and can navigate their way through the adolescent years with encouragement and support.

The year 7 “Information Night” will be held on Monday, May 7, from 6.30pm at the Wanniassa Campus.

St Mary MacKillop College. Wanniassa Campus (Years 7-9), Mackinnon Street and Isabella Plains Campus (Years 10-12), Ellerston Avenue. Call 6209 0100 or email enrolments@mackillop.act.edu.au

advertising feature INFORMATION EVENING FOR YEAR 11 – 2019

Going the extra distance for student care BACKED with 40 years’ experience, St Francis Xavier College prides itself on being a school that cares and provides a high level of pastoral care, says teacher and communications officer Beth Doherty.

“We aim to provide a really holistic education for the whole person,” she says.

“We focus on the individual as well as their role as part of the community.”

And, Beth says, the teachers, who are all highly professional, are not only committed to their subject areas but they go the extra distance in caring for the student as an individual.

The upcoming open day on Friday, May 18, is designed for potential new students to meet teachers, make friends, sample elective subjects they might like to do in the future and essentially, try St Francis Xavier College for the day.

But before then, the school will be hosting an all-day “expo”, where students from Belconnen Catholic primary schools are again invited to experience a day as a high school student at St Francis Xavier College.

Offering electives such as performing arts, visual arts, photography, STEM, religious education, Beth says the choices are many and there is something to suit everyone.

This extends to the school’s extra co-curriculum activities too in areas such as sport, volunteer work, robotics and performing arts.

“There’s something for everyone to suit a wide variety of kids,” she says.

Date: Monday, 14 May 2018 Time: 7.00–9.00pm Senior School Hall, Melbourne Avenue, Deakin

Considering college options for 2019?

Come along to our Year 11 Information Evening to learn more about our wide range of specialist subjects and the array of opportunities life at CGGS presents.

Current students and teachers will be on hand to answer whatever questions girls and their parents might have.

Register online at cggs.act.edu.au or for more information about securing a place at CGGS, please contact our Admissions team on 02 6202 6423.

CRICOS Provider No. 01294F

St Francis Xavier College, Barnard Circuit, Florey.

Email jennifer.madgwick@sfx.act.edu.au, call 6258 1055 or visit sfx.act.edu.au

CGGS.ACT.EDU.AU

ST FRANCIS XAVIER COLLEGE FLOREY ENROLLING NOW! St Francis Xavier College's 2019 enrolment period is from Monday 7 May - Friday 25 May 2018.

The 2019 Enrolment Information Evening will be held on Monday 14 May 2018 with guided tours starting at 5pm, and an information session from 6.30 - 7.15pm.

Expo Day: Thursday 3 May, all day.

Open Day: Friday 18 May, 9.00am - 2.30pm Register by emailing jennifer.madgwick@sfx.act.edu.au or phone the College on (02) 6258 1055

CONTACT US St Francis Xavier College Barnard Cct, Florey ACT, 2615 (02) 6258 1055. www.sfx.act.edu.au CityNews April 26-May 2, 2018 15

SCHOOL OPEN DAYS

advertising feature

Confident Grammar keen to answer those questions WHETHER a child is a high achiever or a student who needs a bit more help, Canberra Grammar School is a great place for all kinds of students, says the head of school, Dr Justin Garrick.

From pre-school to year 12, Justin says Canberra Grammar School treats each individual student with care and consideration.

“We believe children need an environment that encourages them to seek out academics and social relationships, to find their passions and purpose in a complex world; to be ready for the world,” he says.

Justin understands choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions a parent or guardian can make, which is why Canberra Grammar School’s open day consists of a tour, morning tea, an

information and Q&A session and an opportunity to speak with staff and with the students.

“Our students are our greatest ambassadors.

Speak to them and they will tell you what makes CGS special,” he says.

Canberra Grammar School is now enrolling for 2019 and invites parents and guardians to come along to its open day on Thursday, May 3.

“Open Day is your opportunity to visit our beautiful Red Hill or Northside Campus and to have your questions answered,” Justin says.

Canberra Grammar School, Northside Campus, 33 Blamey Crescent, Campbell. Southside Campus, 15 Alexander Street, Red Hill. Visit cgs.act.edu.au

College where academia meets sports SPECIALISING in the education of year 11 and 12 students, the University of Canberra Senior Secondary College, Lake Ginninderra is dedicated to equipping students for the future.

Situated on the shores of Lake Ginninderra, principal Martin Watson says the college provides the very best senior secondary education available.

“The college provides a contemporary learning environment and prides itself on providing excellence in academic opportunity, offering students a wide range of courses to study,” he says.

In a unique partnership with the University of Canberra, students gain access to the library, online academic publications, faculty facilities, the university academic skills centre and university clubs.

Martin says the college is also nationally renowned for its “Outdoor Education Program”, which has a strong environmental, adventure, and cultural emphasis, with an extension program that takes students on national and international adventure excursions.

“The Elite Sports Program, for local and nationally

16 CityNews April 26-May 2, 2018

selected elite athletes, is offered to college students in partnership with the AIS, National Sporting Organisations such as Basketball Australia and Volleyball Australia, the ACT Academy of Sport and ACT sporting bodies.

“This program is unique in Australia, with the college having educated many ACT, Olympic and Australian representatives.

“The college offers extension opportunities including the Excellence Program’s Academic, Leadership, Community Service and Environmental Sustainability streams and the Global Classroom initiative offering overseas conference travel and an education program in international citizenship.”

Martin says students and parents can learn more about what’s to offer, including the college’s creative arts and pastoral care programs at the “Open Night”on Thursday, May 17, from 6pm to 8pm.

Canberra Senior Secondary College, Lake Ginninderra, 2 Emu Bank, Belconnen. Call 6142 0222, email LakeG@ed.act.edu.au or visit lakeonline.act.edu.au

UC SENIOR SECONDARY COLLEGE

LAKE GINNINDERRA Challenge Inspire

Create

2018 OPEN NIGHT THURSDAY 17TH MAY 6PM - 8 PM

Achieve

SERVING BELCONNEN FOR OVER 30 YEARS Academic excellence Vocational excellence Visual and Performing Arts excellence Outdoor Education excellence Elite Sports excellence Pastoral Care excellence UC Senior Secondary College Lake Ginninderra 2 Emu Bank, Belconnen P. 6142 0222 • lakeonline.act.edu.au An ACT Public School

Keep in touch with the LAKE G apps

SCHOOL OPEN DAYS Senior School Information Evenings Year 11 • 2019 Information Night, Wednesday 30 May • 5.30-7.30pm Year 9 • 2019 Information Night, Wednesday 22 August • 6.00-7.30pm

Anglican school that challenges and inspires BURGMANN Anglican School, a school that challenges and inspires each student, is opening up to the public so senior school students can come along and see what it has to offer.

The year 11 “Information Night and Expo” will be held on Wednesday, May 30 in the gymnasium from 5.30pm, showcasing its wide range of subjects.

While creating the best possible platform for students to be ready for tertiary study or the workforce, Burgmann Anglican School also aims at making the students final two years of schooling exciting and fulfilling.

The Year 9 “Information Night” will be later in the year on Wednesday, August 22.

The curriculum for year 9 and year 10 students provides a balanced program which encompass the

requirements of the Australian Curriculum. All students throughout years 9 and 10 study English, mathematics, science, humanities, health and physical education and christian living, as well as two elective subjects.

But no matter what the year group, Burgmann Anglican School is committed to its belief that young people are unique individuals created by God with their own strengths, weaknesses, gifts and needs.

The school values each individual student and strives to build a culture of respect, fairness, caring, compassion and service as students journey through their adolescence and into their early adulthood.

Burgmann Anglican School, 4 The Valley Avenue, Gungahlin. Call 6255 7700 or visit burgmann.act.edu.au

Join us at our Senior School Information Evenings and learn all about our wonderful school

ENROLLING NOW Pre-School to Year 6 www.mts.school

School does ‘small things with great love’ BASED on the values of St Mother Teresa of Calcutta, the Mother Teresa School has been “doing small things with great love” in Harrison for nine years.

Principal Peter Hughes says the school provides a calm, productive and enthusiastic environment for students of a preschool age to year six.

“In our latest satisfaction survey it was really strong in teachers caring, taking interest in the kids and providing a stimulating environment with lots of opportunities,” he says.

“The school also has a strong pastoral care program, particularly in the area of mental health.”

Through the program, professionals and teachers team up to help children with anxiety

and other stresses.

Based on five c’s the school also has a behaviour management policy, which was developed by a number of students and teachers.

“The five c’s are to be compassionate, considerate, courageous, calm and courteous,” he says.

The school is part of the Holy Spirit Parish and accepts families from faith backgrounds other than Catholic, with the understanding that the families support the ethos of the school.

Mother Teresa School, 40 Wimmera Street, Harrison.

Call 6241 5604, email office.motherteresa@cg.catholic. edu.au or visit mts.school

As a Catholic learning community, all at Mother Teresa School are called to care, to dream, to innovate, to inspire!

Enrolment help & enquiries

6241 5604

or www.mts.school 40 Wimmera Street, Harrison ACT 2914 (Corner of Mapleton Ave and Wimmera St) 18 CityNews April 26-May 2, 2018

25 years

COVERING CANBERRA

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Half dry does a full job with spicy food Richard Calver

Sizzling, hot Cuban ballet!

Big week starts with ‘Big Dance’

By Helen Musa

THE eight-day celebration of Dance Week kicks off in Canberra this weekend, coinciding with International Dance Day and concluding on May 6. It opens with “Big Dance”, choreographed by Frances Rings, of Bangarra fame, and NZ’s Craig Bary. At the National Portrait Gallery, 2.30pm, Sunday, April 29. Suitable for a variety of capabilities. Online tutorials at bigdance.org.au

HE was head-hunted by Cher for her “Love Hurts” tour, Twyla Tharp hired him as her pas de deux partner, he’s been the go-to choreographer for Paula Abdul, with whom he was also a judge on “So You Think You Can Dance”, but what really interests Brisbane-raised dancer Aaron Cash are hip replacements.

Cash is co-creator, co-choreographer with Cuban choreographer Roclan Gonzalez Chavez, of the “dazzlingly fast-paced, humorous and sizzlingly hot-blooded” Ballet Revolución, coming in a “rebooted” version to the Canberra Theatre.

Speaking by phone from his home in Los Angeles, Cash is in a philosophical mood, telling “CityNews”: “Dance is a dangerous profession, I like anything physical, but my hips happen to be my weak point.”

At almost 50, he’s already had two hip replacements, but says: “Honestly, I wear it like a badge of honour, a lot of dancers do that and thank God, technology has given me my freedom, now my faculties are back.”

Given his physical vulnerability, it seems extraordinary that Cash should have chosen to join Cuba’s Ballet Revolución as choreographer. Most dancers, he believes, have an incredible work ethic,

but the Cubans have it in spades.

“The boys are incredibly powerful and passionate with big jumps… the guys can do 10 to 15 pirouettes whereas three or four pirouettes are the most I can do,” he says.

“They’re beautiful and controlled dancers who are deep into the musicality.”

A veteran hoofer who trained at Ross Coleman’s performing school and became one of the original Tap Dogs, Cash first got involved with the Cuban group through Jon Lee, an English producer who used to do Shakespeare in the Park shows and went on to co-create “The Bar at Buena Vista”.

During a visit to Cuba Lee saw the so-called “Ballet with Attitude”, phoned Cash and two days later they were in Havana auditioning.

Cash agrees with the proposition that dance is in the DNA of Cubans.

“In Cuba, more than any other country, everybody learns to dance… when you’re a kid, even in the provinces you’re getting into the Mambo, the African dances, the cha-cha-cha, the salsa,” he says.

“Everyone does everything and then, by the age of 12, they send you off to school, and then you can perform in cabaret or contemporary or classical – all the dance schools are structured like Russian hothouses.”

His dancers were all trained at the Castro-initiated Escuela Nacional De Arte, where they are divided into separate pathways for ballet and for modern and folkloric dance.

Cash is particularly impressed by the way Cubans like to export their culture

ARTS IN THE CITY

By Helen Musa

IT costs $284 for a pensioner’s ticket to the opera at Sydney Opera House, but to see baritone Teddy Tahu Rhodes in a dinner show at the National Museum of Australia on May 5 it could cost as much as $500. He’s terrific of course, but as one “CityNews” reader wrote: “Wow, is he worth that much?”

Bookings to “Teddy’s Weekend Away” to eventbrite.com.au AUSTRALIAN National Capital Artists Inc, with more than 40 contemporary professional arts practitioners, is holding an open day at ANCA Dickson, 1 Rosevear Place, Dickson, and at ANCA Mitchell, 96 Hoskins Street, Mitchell, noon-4pm, Saturday, May 5. All welcome.

Ballet Revolución… “dazzlingly fast-paced, humorous and sizzlingly hotblooded.”

Photo by Johan Persson and in that endeavour they are well supported by the government, especially when many of them are so poor.

“It’s a good option for young impoverished dancers,” he says.

“They can travel and they can come home from overseas loaded with stuff for family members who can’t get basic necessities like TV sets.”

Aaron Cash is always busy. Twice a night in LA he hosts the intimate Parisian cabaret, “Nuit Blanche”; he’s got

a one-man show this month, a TV judging commitment and, of course, Ballet Revolución.

Of that he says: “It’s amazing, it’s a fun night, lots of energy and lots of passionate music so everybody can forget about their daily worries. My dancers don’t dance with the music, they dance in the music.”

Ballet Revolución, Canberra Theatre, May 9-10. Bookings to canberratheatrecentre. com.au or 6275 2700.

Marking achievements of Islamic people

By Helen Musa

“O HUMANKIND!” chapter 49 of the Holy Koran says: “Surely, we have created you from a single pair of male and female and made you into tribes and families so that you may know one another.”

It’s the surest possible indication that for Muslims, the ultimate purpose of society is knowledge and communication, not division and dispute and with that in mind, the National Museum of Australia has picked up a remarkable international exhibition and turned it into its own.

Largely comprised of artefacts from the Vatican Anima Mundi Museum and the Sharjah Museums Authority, the show features more than 100 objects marking the achievements of Muslim people around the world, capturing their daily lives, customs and spirituality in textiles and clothing, musical instruments, ceramics and jewellery.

It’s likely to be popular, says senior curator Carol Cooper, but it’s not dumbed-down. Nor is it a “treasures” show. Some of the objects, she says, are humble – a girl’s dress, a hookah and an exquisitely crafted saddle.

Some items are not commonplace. For instance, there is a remarkable fragment from a “Kiswah”, the black covering of the Ka’ba in Mecca, central point in the Muslim Haj, or

Qing Dynasty cloisonné vase with Islamic inscriptions, early 18th century. Vatican Anima Mundi Museum pilgrimage. That single item had one devout Muslim “shivering all over” at the very sight of the cloth, Cooper says.

Muslims, of course, have been living in Australia since its very earliest days, evident in the many Muslim names that permeate our older Australian communities. With this and the theme in mind, she and co-curator, ANU Islamic scholar Katherine Aigner, have extended the exhibition from its origins to include sections on two of the Muslim peoples who have most impacted upon Australian life.

These are the Afghan (actually, mostly Pakistani) cameleers whose routes formed the

basis of our great desert roads and the Macassan traders, the “trepang” (sea cucumber) fishermen who have intermarried with Arnhem Land communities for centuries.

The original exhibition “So That You Might Know Each Other“ doesn’t originate from Australia, but from the Vatican Museums’ Anima Mundi – Peoples, Art and Cultures collection.

The collection, formerly the Ethnological Museum, was designed to demonstrate the value of non-European artistic and religious expressions.

In 2014, the Vatican got together with Sharjah Museums Authority in the Gulf to stage the exhibition at the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisations. This is the basis of the present show.

The exhibition testifies to the diversity of Islamic cultures. Very much like Catholicism, Islam absorbed art and social practices wherever it went – demonstrated in the Silk Road exhibition at the NMA some years ago.

The show encompasses artefacts from Morocco, Ghana, Iran, Indonesia and China as well as the heartland of the monotheistic religion that swept the world after the death of the Prophet Mohammed in 632 AD. Cooper says the quotation from the Koran that forms the title of the show sums up its ultimate purpose – “to reach out to people so they can learn about respect”.

“So That You Might Know Each Other”, National Museum of Australia, April 20-July 22, free admission.

CANBERRA Symphony Orchestra’s next concert features, unusually, double bass soloist Phoebe Russell performing Jan Křtitel Vaňhal’s entertaining double bass concerto. Works by Beethoven and Vaughan Williams will also feature, all under the baton of German conductor Johannes Fritzsch. At Llewellyn Hall, May 2-3. Bookings to cso.org.au or 6262 6772.

THE online art auction “Art for Epilepsy” is back again.

Artists must include the colour purple, the international colour for epilepsy awareness. The site artforepilepsy. com.au will open for bidding at 9am on May 1 and close at 9pm, Thursday, May 31.

HEADLINE events from the 2018 Sydney Writers’ Festival will be live-streamed to Canberra and the audience will be able to engage by submitting questions to on-stage writers including Jane Harper, Gareth Evans and Peter Greste through Twitter and SMS. At the National Library of Australia Theatre, 10am-5.30pm, May 4-6. It’s free, but registrations are essential to nla.gov.au

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CINEMA

Affectionate look at the Potato Peel Pie Society “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society” (M) IN 2008, Mary Ann Schaffer and Annie Barrows published a novel that, perhaps because of its intriguing title, sold very well.

I read the book (Wikipedia offers a neat plot summary), enjoyed it at the time but let it slip from memory (I read a lot). It’s fair to say that while prolific director Mike Newell and writers Kevin Hood, Thomas Bezucha and Don Roos have laboured affectionately to bring “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society” to the screen, the result does vary a tad from the book.

To reject the film on account of that is a little unfair. It’s gentle, engaging, with a fine cast and great respect for the story. But what’s a precise doddle on a printing press doesn’t necessarily reach the screen with such facility.

To categorise book or film is not a simple task. Telling the story, both reflect wonderful themes – the magic of great writing, selfdiscovery, courage in adversity’s face, loyalty to self and community and, inevitably, love.

Lily James plays Juliet, a successful English novelist.

In her early thirties she wants to retire her war-time

Supa Productions presents

20 CityNews April 26-May 2, 2018

in the film aren’t in the book and vice versa, which doesn’t diminish the story in either medium. The film runs for 124 agreeable minutes.

At all cinemas

“I Feel Pretty” (M)

Lily James as Juliet, a successful English novelist, in “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society”. pseudonym. In 1946, she gets a letter from Dawsey (Michiel Huisman) who, during the war, had been a member of the Society, established as a cover for residents breaking curfew during the German occupation of Guernsey. She travels to the island where she slowly finds acceptance from other members, taking notes without writing a word of the piece about the essays of Charles Lamb that her publisher has agreed to take from her.

A tour of the second largest of the

Channel Islands requires an airline or ferry ticket, not a cinema ticket. Shot in Devon and Cornwall, the film looks delightful.

The principal cast includes Penelope Wilton, as Amelia, who at first resents Juliet’s presence, Tom Courtenay as Eben who runs the local post office, Katherine Parkinson as Isola who befriends Juliet, Bronagh Gallagher as the landlady who knows what went on between Elizabeth (Jessica Brown Findlay) and the German army medico who fathered five-year-old Kit for whom the islanders care, knowing that both her parents died in the war.

Some characters

THIS one-joke movie is about a bigly-built woman convinced, after an accidental knock on the head, that she has suddenly become pretty.

Writers/directors Abby Kohn and Marc Silverstein may well have directed the continuity girl to check that, in every shot, Amy Schumer was wearing the neck-chain carrying the name Renee without which filmgoers might forget the name of the character she’s playing.

It’s one of those movies.

Schumer belongs to that small select group of actresses such as Rebel Wilson and Melissa McCarthy who use generous body measurements to make us laugh at their pratfalls.

Kohn and Silverstein use that asset to contrast with the reed-slim young women who swan about in the Fifth Avenue office of Lily LeClair cosmetics where Renee works hard in her new job as receptionist. There, for some reason, she catches the eye of Lily’s (Lauren Hutton) grandson Grant (Tom Hopper). She gets offside with Grant’s sister Avery (Michelle Williams trying to reprise Marilyn Monroe but not exactly succeeding).

Ethan (Rory Scovel) whom Renee met by chance is a better prospect than Grant.

“I Feel Pretty” is a chick-flick with a message. There are industries out there eager to drain the wallets of the myriad young women who yearn to look pretty but on their best days will probably never look more than merely pleasant.

Kohn and Silverstein persist in inflicting that unhappy reality right down to the last reel when, addressing the launch of a new, low-priced LeClair label, Renee, her self-awareness at last restored, declares every woman’s right to look as good as she is, whichever product she uses to improve whatever cards nature has dealt her. But spending 110 minutes waiting for that inevitability is a bit tedious. It also offers crumbs of wisdom to men who might otherwise judge books by their covers, so to speak.

At Dendy, Capitol 6 and Hoyts

Amy Schumer as Renee in “I Feel Pretty”.

WINE

DINING / No. 10 restaurant + bar, woden

Half dry does a full job with spicy food

By Richard

CALVER IT was a friend’s birthday.

She puts up with my lame jokes. The joke of the night was told amidst the usual groan.

“Hey, did I tell you my friend was just fired from a clock-making factory after all the extra hours he put in?!”

We were at Akiba in Civic. I ordered the salt and pepper squid.

I tried it with an Asahi beer but the beer went quickly and half the dish remained. So, feeling lazy, I asked the husky-voiced waitress what she would recommend (other than that I pay the bill, which drew another groan from my friend). She said that the Helm Half Dry Riesling 2016 at $12 a glass was perfectly compatible with the food. It came. She poured. I agreed.

Not usually a fan of riesling with a sweet edge, the taste here was of the sweet apple at the front of mouth. Yet it finished unusually well, with no clag or syrupy after taste. It was a perfect match for the feisty food.

I telephoned Ken Helm, the King of Canberra Riesling, and he agreed that the wine was made as a complement to spicy food.

“Half dry is a style of riesling popular in Germany known as halbtrocken translated as half dry or sometimes off-dry but why you would put the word ‘off’ on a wine label, goodness knows,” said Helm.

“I learned to make it in Germany.”

“When was that?” I asked.

“In 1999 was the first time,” he said.

What is it that makes it such a good food wine?

“Well, this style is a perfect accompaniment to spicy dishes as the slight sweetness in the wine balances the spices and heat. The way it’s made you get a balance between flavour, acid and residual sugar,” he said.

“Part of the secret, although consumers won’t care, is the oxidising of the juice and then allowing some components to fall out so adding texture.

“The Chinese restaurant in Sydney, Chin Chin, offers it by the glass and they sell a lot, three or four cases a week, so it obviously works well with Chinese food.”

Helm, in his forty-second year of winemaking, has been producing the half dry for 10 years. I asked him whether it had won any awards.

“No, we don’t enter into shows these days. We tend more to provide a few wines to the professionals and rely on their ratings as a way of getting the message

out, the Hallidays etcetera of this world,” he said.

And did he have good ratings?

“Well, this is one that consumers seem to like, something you picked up on, but Halliday tends to place it in the 90s,” he said.

Halliday does indeed give Ken Helm his due saying in a web review: “Over the years he has achieved many things, through dogged persistence on the one hand, vision on the other.

“Riesling has been an all-consuming interest for him, ultimately rewarded with rieslings of consistently high quality.

“He has also given much to the broader wine community, extending from the narrow focus of the Canberra District to the broad canvas of the international world of riesling: in ‘00 he established the Canberra International Riesling Challenge, retiring as Chairman in ‘16, but keeping an active eye on the Challenge.”

And, in the final words of our conversation, Helm – channelling Louis Pasteur – sums up exactly what I was thinking as I finished the wine that so complemented the piquant food: “A meal without wine is like a day without sunshine”.

Winemaker Ken Helm.

The gluten-free Korean fried chicken entree including the Kewpie mayo and pickled daikon.

Rare salmon poke salad… the wakame and kimchi were great elements.

Photos by Wendy Johnson

ONE doesn’t always associate Woden with cool, contemporary places to dine. Sure, there are heaps around but in my mind, many are “shopping mall like” (yell if I’m wrong).

So we were delighted with the fun, quirky décor of No.10 Restaurant + Bar at the Woden Abode Hotel.

Our question was whether the food would measure up.

No. 10 opened in 2016 and is a great spot for those living and/ or working in Woden. It’s relaxed and customers can pop by for a quick drink and a light snack or stick around for a long, leisurely meal.

The menu is intriguing and carefully thought through.

Entrees range from $16 to $19. The gluten-free Korean fried chicken (not heavy) was super delish, including the Kewpie mayo and pickled daikon. A real winner was the melt-in-the-mouth calamari, freshened up with coriander and mint, and perked up with chilli.

The palm-sugar dressing wasn’t overly sweet. I’m a fan of quality poke bowls, especially with rare salmon, and mine didn’t disappoint. The wakame and kimchi were great elements.

We fussed over mains, with so many enticing options on offer. The eye fillet steak ($36), another gluten-free dish, was cooked as ordered and the mushroom fricassee was lovely and earthy. The potato galette was yum, especially with the confit garlic jus.

The smoked lamb, slow braised and served on a wooden board, came with red onion, pomegranate and cos lettuce salad ($33). The lamb

drops by the glass. We enjoyed the 2016 Three Lads Sangiovese ($13) and the 2012 Bourke Street Chardonnay ($11), both Canberra District wines.

Happy hour 4.30pm to 6pm – $6 for a wine or $5 for a beer.

Despite the blips, which we suspected were unusual, we’ll be back. No.10 has a super outdoor area that gets sun during the day and it’s a welcome addition to the Woden food scene. The portions are super generous, especially for the price.

10 out of 10 for Woden’s No.10 was fantastic and who doesn’t love tangy pomegranate?

Things went a bit pear shaped with my main. The duck breast was undercooked and the fat on top not properly rendered. The pinot noir risotto was gluggy and lacked flavour. The staff were professional and accommodating when I returned the dish.

We tried to share a crème brulee but it didn’t hit the mark. It was cold and needed refining. We weren’t charged for the dessert.

The wine list at No.10 is impressive and celebrates top local wines, including great

On our next visit, we’ll just share a couple of entrees instead of ordering one each.

No.10 Restaurant + Bar, 10 Bowes Street, Woden.

Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks from 7am to late, seven days.

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GARDENING

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Nerines for autumn colour and a fragrant cut flower.

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In awe of colorful autumn bulbs WITH spring bulbs flooding the garden centres for planting now, it’s easy to overlook the wide range of autumn-flowering bulbs.

Autumn-flowering bulbs are just emerging and provide some lovely autumn colour and when they die down, it’s only a short time before the first of the spring bulbs appear, which gives a continuity of flowers.

While it’s rather late to plant these bulbs in the garden, it might be worth taking a chance and try them in pots.

One of my favourites is nerines.

They make a great cut flower, which lasts at least a week to 10 days and its flowers have a delicious perfume.

Nerines are a genus of more than 30 species, all native to South Africa. The most popular variety is Nerine bowdenii with its profusion of spidery, rich-pink flowers.

Plant it with its neck above the soil in well-prepared, free-draining ground. Heavy soils can be made more friable with the addition of washed river sand, decayed manure

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22 CityNews April 26-May 2, 2018

and leaf mould. These should be thoroughly mixed in with the existing soil. Leaf mould can usually be found with leaves rotting down from last autumn under deciduous trees. Don’t use chemical fertilisers in the planting hole or around the top of the bulb at any time.

The flowers appear on long 40-60cm stalks, each with six-to-10 frilled, bright-pink flowers.

The harder-to-find, pure-white Nerine flexuosa “Alba” is appearing in our garden now. This is the only white-flowered nerine in cultivation.

The leaves usually start appearing quite a while before the flowers, which are of a similar size and abundance as N. bowdenii.

There are many other varieties often advertised in online nurseries such as Lambley Nursery of Victoria, well-known for the huge range of unusual plants. Look out for the rich-red variety.

After flowering has finished and the leaves have turned yellow and died down, the bulbs can be dug up in late autumn/early winter. The numerous small bulb offsets can be separated from the parent and planted out between late autumn and spring. These offsets should flower the following autumn.

Another favourite bulb so popular in British gardens is the Autumn Crocus or, more correctly, Colchicum. I took the photo here recently at Cooma Cottage in Yass and imagine they go back to the time of Hamilton Hume. Once you have them in the garden, they’re there for the long haul!

Colchicum has about 60 species along with the crocus genus of about 80 species. Both range from Europe, North Africa, Turkey and Lebanon across to Afghanistan.

Spring and autumn crocus give a lift to any garden.

The two are often confused between the autumn and spring varieties. The flowers range from bright yellow to pure white, blue, purple and more.

The ever-so-expensive Crocus sativus or saffron crocus ranges from Italy to Kurdistan and is generally accepted to have been cultivated in Palestine since the time of King Solomon. The flowers are a lilac blue with the long, drooping stigma of brilliant orange-scarlet used in cooking.

AND on manures: they should never be used fresh and, ideally, are a great addition to the compost heap.

Manures depend on what the animal has been fed. Unfortunately, horse manure may give a good crop of hay and sheep manure, with its little pebbles, often has a crop of stinging nettles and other weeds. Cow manure is the best going through the system several times as the animals chew the cud, with no weeds.

Jottings...

• When buying fruit trees, get advice from the garden centre whether two are needed for cross pollination. Peaches, apricots and nectarines are self-pollinating.

Apples, pears and plums need two varieties.

• Berries of all sorts can be planted in winter, strawberries (ensure they are certified), raspberries, black and red currants etcetera will be arriving at garden centres in the next month.

PUZZLES PAGE Joanne Madeline Moore

General knowledge crossword No. 636

Your week in the stars – April 30-May 6, 2018

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT

This week’s astro-emphasis is on formal volunteer work, or just providing spontaneous assistance to someone who is sad, sick, in trouble or less fortunate.

So your mantra for the moment is from birthday great, Audrey Hepburn: “As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.” And there’s no room for negative self-talk! The Sun/ Neptune link also encourages you to be kind towards yourself.

Seeking help for dad's nursing-home headache

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 21)

With the Sun shining in your sign (and making beautiful music with dream-weaver Neptune) it’s time to take your dreams and spin them into practical and productive projects. Plus Venus boosts self-esteem and gives you the inner confidence to follow your chosen destiny. And Jupiter also blesses interpersonal relations. So your motto for the moment is from birthday great, actress and humanitarian Audrey Hepburn: “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.”

GEMINI (May 22 – June 21)

Venus is vamping through your sign, which greatly boosts your Gemini charisma and sense of fun. So it’s a terrific time to turn up the charm factor and call in a few old favours. However, too much happy hilarity (and no action) will just annoy others (who are doing all the work). So try to walk your talk. Wednesday is a wonderful day to make a splash on social media. But resist the urge to be the neighbourhood nosey-parker and spread salacious gossip.

CANCER (June 22 – July 23)

Hey Crabs – your creative side will really take you places this week. So use delicious daydreams, creative visualisation and active imagination to help you set goals, make wishes and devise plans for the future. And don’t limit yourself by dreaming small… make sure you go for gold! With Venus visiting your privacy zone, solitude is certainly soul food for you at the moment. You’ll find solo pursuits – like meditating, reading and writing – will help settle any crabbiness.

LEO (July 24 – Aug 23)

It’s a great week to set gigantic goals and dream big dreams for the future - and don’t make them too practical and pedestrian! It’s time for cautious Cats and languid Lions to reach for the stars as the Sun shines in your career zone (and aspects inspirational Neptune). Which will give you a sensational shot of creative confidence. Venusian vibes also encourage online partnerships, joint ventures and group activities, as you combine individual talents for a collective outcome.

VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sept 23)

Don’t dismiss your dreams as just frivolous imaginings. Dreaming by day (and by night) is a wonderfully creative thing to do, and will provide you with amazing ideas and inspiration that are hard to obtain in other ways. Better still – include a loved one (or work colleague) in your hopes and wishes for the future. In the words of John Lennon (who had Venus and Neptune in Virgo): “A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality.”

Solution next edition

Across

3 What is an authoritative decree, sanction, or order? (4) 4 Which trophy is played for between Australia and England in test cricket? (5) 5 Ankara is the capital of which republic? (6) 6 What is a Scottish landed proprietor called? (5) 9 Which venomous snakes expand the skin of their necks to assume a hoodlike form? (6) 10 What are goals, to be reached? (7) 12 To run naked through a crowd, is to do what? (6) 14 Which part of the harness is used to guide a horse? (6) 16 Name another term for an antenna. (6) 18 What is the dried meat of the coconut? (5) 19 Name some particular British noblemen. (5) 21 Which combat vehicle moves on caterpillar Down tracks? (4) 1 Name an Indonesian island lying south of Borneo. (4) 22 What are pieces of turf called? (4) 2 Which Australian country music singer was known as Smoky ...? (6) 4 Which Australian composer is best known for the ballet suite, Corroboree, Sir John ...? (6) 7 What are knightly or heroic champions called? (8) 8 What do we call a person living in seclusion? (6) 9 Name an alternative term for a magazine. (8) 11 When one climbs a ladder, one does what? (7) 13 What, colloquially, do we call a person employed to eject disorderly people? (7) 15 Name a more common term for otalgia. (7) 17 Which bright red colour inclines towards orange? (7) 20 Which reference mark is star-shaped? (8) 23 Name an eight-legged predatory arachnid. (6) 24 Which cords are worn around the shoulders of military uniforms? (8) 25 What are glossy black, omnivorous birds? (6)

LIBRA (Sept 24 – Oct 23)

Libra is the zodiac sign connected with beauty, fashion, appearance and style.

So here are some wonderful beauty tips from Hollywood acting icon, Audrey Hepburn (who was born on May 4, 1929): “For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.” Mid-week is a fabulous time to contact a friend who lives far away but is still entwined in your destiny.

Sudoku medium No. 218

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22)

With Jupiter (planet of confidence and prosperity) jumping through your sign (until November 8) a personal project shows great promise. But don’t let negative self-talk hold you back Scorpio. You have to be your Number One fan. If you don’t believe in yourself (and your talents) why should anyone else? Inspiration for the week is from movie legend Audrey Hepburn (who was born on May 4, 1929): “Nothing is impossible. The word itself says ‘I’m possible’!”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21)

This week you’ll be given the chance to heal an old emotional wound or patch up a partnership problem. So don’t let false Sagittarian pride stop you from taking a leap forward when it comes to love and forgiveness. Accept the opportunity gratefully, with outstretched hands and an open heart. Relationships with colleagues and family members are favoured on the weekend when the Sun and Neptune encourage you to be friendly and thoughtful; creative and kind.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20)

Are you being a grumpy Goat? A personal or professional project isn’t progressing as quickly as you’d like. This week’s stars encourage you to perceive delays as opportunities to review and reboot. It’s also a great time to formulate your goals for the future. But – with Saturn and Pluto both in your sign – resist the urge to be overly sombre and serious. Heed the wise words of birthday great Audrey Hepburn: “The most important thing is to enjoy your life – to be happy.”

6295 2844

Unit 9, 71 Leichhardt Street, Kingston

Solutions from last edition

ABN 57 008 653 683

Sudoku hard No. 217

Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2018

Solution next edition

Crossword No. 635

PISCES (Feb 20 – Mar 20)

This week the Sun and Neptune encourage you to express your compassionate nature and reach out to someone who needs a helping hand in your local community. With Venus visiting your domestic zone, charity definitely begins at home!

There will also be opportunities to share your personal hopes and dreams for the future with like-minded friends from foreign places, both in person and online.

Single? You could meet your soul mate via a family member or work colleague.

Paul's father has been accepted into a nursing home and the family needs to sort out his financial situation.

Paul and his wife Nancy called by for advice.

“Gail, the nursing home has produced this financial summary based on a purchase price of $600,000 and we need to understand it,” said Paul.

I reviewed the summary, which showed Paul's father's home was worth $500,000, he had made gifts of $90,000 and had other assets including a car and bank accounts totalling $9000.

"Can you give me some information on the gifts of $90,000?” I asked.

Nancy said: “That’s not really a gift. Dad gave us a loan to pay off our mortgage and at some stage we need to pay it back.”

I told her that whether a gift or a loan it may not matter too much as it would be included in his assets test either way.

"It is this figure that is used to determine his pension amount," I said.

"To calculate dad’s assets for Centrelink purposes there is a capped value for his home of $165,271.20 to that is added $9000 for the car and cash, and the $90,000 gift/loan is also included.

"That make his total assets $264,271.20. However, the assets test for a single pensioner before their pension is reduced is $253,750.

So based on these figures dad’s pension will be reduced by $3 for every $1000 by which his assets exceed the threshold. This means that he will lose about $30 a fortnight.”

Paul thought that was helpful because "we have estimated his home to be worth $500,000 but it could be worth less". "We have agreed that we will pay any shortfall to the nursing home," he said.

I told them that they needed to be aware that any contribution they put towards the bond would count towards dad’s assets.

"So if you put in another $50,000 his pension will further reduce by $150 a fortnight," I said.

"As you know, his nursing home fee is a combination of a RAD (Refundable Accommodation Bond) and a DAP (Daily Accommodation Payment).

"There is also a requirement that dad must be left with at least $44,000 if he pays for his accommodation in full.

"The DAP is calculated at 85 per cent of the single pension not the amount that dad actually receives. This is currently $702.24 a fortnight. There is also a means-tested care fee of $37.94 a fortnight. However, if you contribute more the DAP will exceed the amount of pension that dad receives."

Nancy said it was all so complicated and it seemed that every way they tried to help, dad was penalised by his pension being reduced.”

“Unfortunately, that's the system," I said.

"It seems to me that instead of putting in the lump sum to help, it might be better if you pay the extra nursing home fees as this will not impact his assets test. However, to provide accurate figures we really need to do a proper analysis and have details of how much the home has sold for and what is left over” Paul thanked me and said they'd be back once the house was sold to work out the next stage.

If you need help with any financial matter contact the friendly team at Gail Freeman & Co Pty Ltd

AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19)

Prosperity planet Jupiter is visiting your career zone until November 8. But don’t just sit back and wait for good luck to magically fall into your lap. Astute Aquarians will have a plan and be proactive. Then you’ll really start to kick some goals! Be inspired by birthday great Audrey Hepburn: “Opportunities don’t often come along. So, when they do, you have to grab them.” Sunday is super for interacting with loved ones in kind, creative and compassionate ways.

Gail Freeman & Co Pty Ltd

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)

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