Dubbo Weekender 29.11.2014

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The accidental author

Dubbo author Pat Clarke has no intention of slowing down. P20

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DUBBO WEEKENDER 29.11.2014

FROM THE GUEST EDITOR

CONTENTS Natalie FEATURED THIS WEEK

12

Aussie cups runneth over with quality brew

Blue Christmas

How to cope with grief and loss at a time when the rest of the world is celebrating.

14 Lydia Pedrana 18 Steve Pearson 20 The accidental author

Aussie cups runneth over with quality brew

No sunset clause on justice for Janine

Dubbo lady Pat Clarke was settling into retirement when the opportunity arose to embark on a second career.

REGULARS 4 Tony Webber 6 Natalie Holmes 10 Sally Bryant 19 Greg Smart You’ll also love...

28 Hear See Do Etc. 38 Play: Puzzles & Stars Front cover image Hayley Ferris

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Sales Manager Donna Falconer | Sales Representatives Alexandria Kelly, Sarah Porch | Office 89 Wingewarra Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 | Tel 02 6885 4433 | Fax 02 6885 4434 | Email sales@panscott.com.au

CONTACTS & CREDITS | Email feedback@dubboweekender.com.au | Online www.dubboweekender.com.au | www.twitter.com/DubboWeekender | www.facebook.com/WeekenderDubbo Published by Panscott Media Pty Ltd ABN 94 080 152 021 Managing Director Tim Pankhurst Editor Jen Cowley News Editor Natalie Holmes Photography Kaitlyn Rennie, Alexandra Meyer, Steve Cowley Design Sarah Head, Hayley Ferris Reception Leanne Ryan General disclaimer: The publisher accepts no responsibility for letters, notices and other material contributed for publication. The submitter accepts full responsibility for material, warrants that it is accurate, and indemnifies the publisher against any claim or action. All advertisers, including those placing display, classified or advertorial material, warrant that such material is true and accurate and meets all applicable laws and indemnifies the publisher against all liabilities that may arise from the publication of such material. Whilst every care is taken in preparing this publication, we cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions.

Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The editor, Jen Cowley, accepts responsibility for election comment. Articles contain information of a general nature – readers should always seek professional advice relevant to their particular circumstances. Corrections and comments: Panscott Media has a policy of correcting mistakes promptly. If you have a complaint about published material, contact us in writing. If the matter remains unresolved, you may wish to contact the Australian Press Council. © Copyright 2014 Panscott Media Pty Ltd. Copyright in all material – including editorial, photographs and advertising material – is held by Panscott Media Pty Ltd or its providers and must not be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the Publisher.

Holmes

Baby got back, booty’s too big-alicious B

ooty, buttocks, backside, buns, gluteus maximus, junk in the trunk; whatever you call your derriere, it’s all about the bass as the hot topic of conversation on the street. Women all over the world are lining up for their Brazilian Butts, which according to the Cosmos Clinic, ‘assists in reshaping your behind.’

“This procedure can create the ultimate Brazilian Butt and involves removing fat from one part of the body and replacing it into the buttock area.

The Cosmos pitch goes on to say that “buttock augmentations/lifts have been used across the globe to transfer your behind into something beautiful and appealing, using your own fat or implants.”

At a cool $12,000, plastic surgeons are no doubt licking their lips in anticipation and rubbing their greasy palms together, while planning to purchase their own islands on the spoils of this latest craze.

Of course, the pin-up girl for this sensation is none other than Kim Kardashian, whose huge rear even leaves J-Lo in the shade. But, although she has plenty of followers in this particular craze, Kimmy famously had a doctor confirm through x-rays that hers were not implants and that her giant behind was au naturel. In her recent Break the Internet campaign, she even balanced a champagne glass on her now more-famous-than-she-is rump. Everyone, especially its owner, is obsessed with Kim Kardashian’s rear, but it just looks big and blobby if you ask me. There is not too much that’s appealing about its roundness but apparently it has its own big old fan club. I haven’t checked, but it probably even has its own website.

But in South America, the home of curvy women, the ladies have been getting caboose injections for many years in order to maintain their place in the Latina sisterhood.

Arse injections are the number one thing in many places right now, but butt implants have been in Brazil since the early 2000s.

In fact, regret is now starting to set in for this bevy of Brazilian beauties, with reports that the injections weren’t perfected and have dropped down, resulting in the need for leg li-

posuction, which must be almost as unpleasant as the brutal waxing for which the nation has become famous in recent years.

Now the other trend in this tush push is in popular culture, and it’s become particularly noticeable in music. At the American Music Awards this week, J-Lo’s butt popped up and out - again when she performed Booty with Iggy Azalea and the pair twerked on-stage. They’re not the only ones talking about their mighty keisters. Meghan Trainor is All About the Bass, LL Cool J loves a Big Ole Butt and listen to almost anything by Jason Derulo and you will hear about his butt obsession.

Bubblegum anyone? Nicki Minaj’s Anaconda also samples Sir Mix a Lot’s Baby Got Back which was actually released way back in 1992, with Sir Mix a Lot proclaiming himself as ‘the quintessential ass man’. But the obsession isn’t just confined to hip hop and pop music. Even country singer Trace Adkins had a crack at the back door in Honky Tonk Badonkadonk. And who could forget Queen’s Fat Bottomed Girls way back in 1978 but ole Freddy Mercury had more of a penchant for boys than the girly variety.

The thing that puzzles me the most about this global trend is that most women have naturally rounder derrieres than our male counterparts and while men tend to admire the female form, women have typically obsessed over its proportions. The buttocks area is just one such place of focus, with concern expressed about the placement of fat, cellulite and getting rid of such shape being a priority for many moons.

In fact, why else would women put themselves through lunges if a tight, firm butt weren’t the point? It seems the tables have turned ladies, and bigger is better. So, if you want to round it out, go right ahead, but remember, surgery is forever and trends are just that. By the time you’ve booked in for your arse plumping, the Botox trend will have shifted as rapidly as the Brazilian butt implants. And if you don’t believe me, just ask YouTube. It will make you thankful for the bum you were born with.

“ It seems the tables have turned ladies, and bigger is better.

DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

3

OPINION & ANALYSIS

Tony Webber

>> Tony Webber is a long time Dubbo resident and former journalist.

Cuts to ABC a curious way to win friends and ratings M

e and our Jen do a fortnightly gig on our ABC radio.

For a while it was just us taking turns each fortnight on Dugald Saunders’ morning show.

But when ABC found out we had an association, that is, we both write in this magazine, they partnered us with others.

It was not only to ensure balance but also to be seen to be doing so.

The fact that Jen was once a local Nationals candidate in a state election and a full length tattoo of Patrice Lumumba covers my entire torso was beside the point.

The ABC is governed by rules, expectations and a culture that enforces professionalism.

As a result it is Australia’s most trusted source of information.

I remember the days when if I wanted the facts I read The Australian. Now if The Australian told me it was day time I’d buy a lamp.

On November 19, The Australian’s editorial opinion piece included useful advice like “the ABC should restore core areas:... non-metropolitan sports coverage and classical music”.

It failed to mention its capacity as a beneficiary of any reduced ABC function, nor explain how a savvy modern audience would come flocking for coverage of the Lake Cargelligo footy comp and the sounds of “state-based orchestra”.

No offence but I doubt they would, and in a few short years the The Australian could sadly advise that falling ratings were symptomatic of the ABC’s dwindling relevance and only add to calls to sell it to Rio Tinto or somebody else with a solid background in impartial journalism.

Never bashful about mentoring rivals, The Oz also said the ABC might “develop a talent pool of program directors and journalists that are in tune with the concerns of their communities”. How thoughtful.

Quality broadcasting is a mainstay of smart, open, vibrant societies.

It shines a light into corners where corporate media cannot, or does not care, to look.

The cuts to the ABC have startled a population already becoming hardened to an austere federal government.

“ One can’t help but wonder why a government so relentlessly unpopular apparently continues to hammer the ideological anvil with such fervour.

Supporters of the cuts have been critical of ABC content, apparently oblivious to the likelihood that previous cuts have necessitated B-grade content to fill unfunded gaps. I’m looking at you Stephen Fry. But it’s another handy tactic: cut the oxygen to someone already short of breath and then express impatience at their incessant gasping.

Is it to aid corporate media backers? Is it too long in the hard right echo chamber agreeing that quality journalism is creeping Bolshevism? Is it to remove those asking the hard questions so that policy is scrutinised by Karl Stefanovic instead of Leigh Sales?

For mine the sport has been the spin around saying the PM did not say what he said when he said no cuts to ABC or SBS. “Efficiency dividend” got a run for a while, but for a roundtable of the government’s best craftsmen it was less than their best.

Then it became the PM’s statement was effectively cancelled out by the fact that other Cabinet Ministers had been saying stuff to the contrary elsewhere.

The genius, however, was

blaming ABC management themselves, thereby painting Cabinet Ministers in affected areas as the victims in the piece.

But discovering such shamelessness in politics is like discovering snot in your nose – icky but hardly surprising.

For his part Opposition leader, Bill Shorten has not to date pledged to restore the funding, thereby reinforcing his talent for hearing opportunity knock and immediately ducking out the back door before leaving town altogether.

For regional people ABC serves as a lifeline to the nation as much as for those unsated by commercial media the ABC serves as a refuge from shows about cooking, dancing and singing competitions, dull sexism and bloodthirsty American crap.

One can’t help but wonder why a government so relentlessly unpopular apparently continues to hammer the ideological anvil with such fervour.

And as ordinary taxpayers, we can only wonder what we’ve done to deserve it. feedback@dubboweekender.com.au

2013/2014 Annual Report to residents now available

4

Dubbo continues to build a reputation as a thriving and vibrant regional City of lifestyle and opportunity.

Download the 2013/2014 Annual Report to find out more.

Dubbo City Council’s commitment to the community is helping meet economic and lifestyle needs for Dubbo residents and businesses.

To request a printed copy contact Dubbo City Council’s Customer Service Centre on 6801 4000 or collect one from Council’s Civic Administration Building.

DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

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29.11.2014 THE DAY IN HISTORY: In 1580, Sir Francis Drake returned to England from circumnavigating the globe.

In 1865, the first gas lighting was used in Brisbane.

In 1877, Thomas Edison demonstrated a hand-cranked phonograph that recorded sound on grooved metal cylinders. Edison shouted verses of “Mary Had a Little Lamb” into the machine, which played back his voice.

In 1922, archaeologists announced they had found fabulous treasures in the tomb of Tutankhamen in Egypt.

In 1989, Romanian Olympic gymnastic hero Nadia Comaneci fled to Hungary.

In 1990, Australian Treasurer Paul Keating said Australia was in recession saying his famous quote “it’s the recession that Australia had to have”; the UN Security Council passed a resolution authorising “all necessary means”, including military force, against Iraq if it didn’t withdraw from Kuwait

by January 15, 1991.

In 2012, prime minister Julia Gillard took the first legislative step towards establishing a National Disability Insurance Scheme.

BIRTHDAYS: Those born on this date include Irish novelist C.S. Lewis in 1898; composersinger Brian Cadd in 1946 (age 68); children’s author Jackie French in 1953 (age 61); Australian rugby league player Steve Rogers in 1954; comedian Garry Shandling in 1949 (age 65); filmmaker Joel Coen in 1954 (age 60); actors Kim Delaney and Tom Sizemore, both in 1961 (age 53), and Don Cheadle in 1964 (age 50).

30.11.2014 THE DAY IN HISTORY: In 1818, Australia’s first lighthouse went into service at South Head, Sydney.

In 1833, 8 people died when brig Ann Jamieson exploded while moored at King’s Wharf, Sydney.

In 1901, the death of Australian explorer Edward John Eyre.

In 2005, the world’s first partial-face transplant was conducted in France. A woman who had been bitten by a dog was given a new nose, lips and chin.

In 2011, the Queensland parliament passed the Civil Partnership Bill, allowing same-sex couples to enter into legally recognised civil unions.

In 2013, a fiery car crash in Southern California killed actor Paul Walker, 40, and his friend, Roger Rodas. Walker was perhaps best-known for his starring role in the “The Fast & the Furious” movie series.

BIRTHDAYS: Those born on this date include British statesman Winston Churchill in 1874; actor Robert Guillaume in 1927 (age 87); filmmaker Ridley Scott in 1937 (age 77); singer/actor Mandy Patinkin in 1952 (age 62); singer June Pointer in 1953 (age 61); rock singer Billy Idol in 1955 (age 59); actor Ben Stiller in 1965 (age 49); and Australian actress Kate Fischer in 1973 (age 41).

JUST A THOUGHT: “The longer the title, the less important the job.” – George McGovern

6

NEWS ANALYSIS

Seven Days

BY NATALIE HOLMES Dubbo Weekender News Editor

Dubbo says no to violence against women P

olice officers were joined by community members at the Cyril Flood Rotunda on Tuesday morning to mark White Ribbon Day. The annual event is geared towards making a stand against all forms of domestic violence against women, regardless of their class or creed and local ambassadors went along to show their support.

Earlier in the week, Mayor Mathew Dickerson had joined ultramarathon runner Kirrily Dear while she was running through the Dubbo area on a road trip from Walgett to Forbes. She was completing the 860km run to raise awareness and money to help stop violence against women in communities across the region.

Dickerson was supportive of the day, although alarmed by the figures relating to our community.

“The statistics of violence against women and other domestic violence are frightening,” he said. “Across NSW in the 12 months to June 2014, over 28,000 domestic violence-related assaults were reported to police. In Dubbo, the rates of domestic violence per 100,000 people are double the NSW rate.

“This is a situation that men have ultimate responsibility for and should be taking action to fix.

“Eliminating violence against women is a cause that every person can stand up to.”

NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione also called on the community to take the White Ribbon pledge to not commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.

“Domestic and family violence affects people in all parts of our society – it is not exclusive to any socioeconomic group, gender, age or culture,” Commissioner Scipione said.

“Domestic violence occupies more police time than any other crime type – last year, officers responded to around 120,000 domestic incidents, which is about 330 each day.”

Full steam ahead for Peak Hill medical facility Construction of the Peak Hill MultiPurpose Service centre is progressing at a rapid rate, with work on the external brick work and cladding almost complete, and internal painting, flooring and installation of fixtures and fittings well underway.

Peak Hill health service manager Di Hutchins said anticipation amongst staff and the community is building as the MPS begins to take shape.

“Staff have shown great resilience and resourcefulness during the construction period and I am very appreciative of their patience during main works construction period,” she said.

“Seeing work progress at such an impressive pace has definitely kept us motivated.

I am very much looking forward to the extra space and the improved workflow we’ll all have once the MPS is complete.”

Pamela Keed from Peak Hill Community Health agreed.

“I’m looking forward to more room for Community Health. A nice, fresh space with workstations and privacy for our Drug and Alcohol consult rooms,” she said.

The Peak Hill MPS is jointly funded by

White Ribbon Day representatives John Watts and Jethro Geier launch the event in Dubbo with various talks from community members, and the release of the official poster. Photo: Dubbo Weekender/Kaitlyn Rennie

the NSW Government ($6 million) and the Australian Government ($6 million) through its Health and Hospitals Fund.

The Peak Hill MPS project is scheduled for completion in mid-2015.

sion to the museum building, to redevelop and relocate the existing displays. The work will also include the relocation of aircraft and other artefacts, display cases, wall displays and historical set pieces.”

Museum project coordinator Peter Kierath said the committee was very delighted with the funding assistance.

“This is a wonderful project for Narromine. With more than 3200 visitors a year, we hope this expansion can grow these numbers to double by next year,” he said.

Work is progressing full steam ahead at the site of the Peak Hill Multi-Purpose Service.

Photo: Supplied

Funding for aviation museum The Narromine Aviation Museum has received $7500 in funding under the NSW Government’s 2014 Volunteer Initiated Museum Development Project Grants Program.

Minister for the Arts and Dubbo MP Troy Grant made the announcement.

“This program is an Arts NSW developed funding program, administered by Museums & Galleries of NSW, to assist volunteer-initiated community museums and keeping places in NSW,” he said.

“It allows community museums like the Aviation Museum in Narromine to carry out projects relating to museum management, collections or community/visitor engagement that have mid to long term outcomes.”

For Narromine, that means a new gallery development.

“A museum consultant curator will be engaged for five and a half weeks during 2015 to fit out displays in the new exten-

DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

Aviation Museum project co-ordinator Peter Kierath goes over plans with Arts Minister and Dubbo MP Troy Grant. Photo: Supplied

Toxic soil forces wicket revamp Dubbo City Council has been forced to excavate and replace the centre wicket square at Victoria Park Number 1 Oval as tests confirm abnormally high toxicity in the soil which is preventing new turf from growing.

Director of Parks and Landcare Murray Wood said all five pitches in the square will be excavated, with the soil removed and replaced with new pitch soil and couch turf before Christmas.

“Green keeping staff first observed there was a problem with the wickets following the standard renovations of all wickets on

YOUR VIEWS Farming, not first world arrogance, is key to rhino survival

The 2014 Dubbo Day Award recipients. Photo: supplied

the Victoria Park and Lady Cutler Ovals,” he said.

“Preliminary soil tests ruled out pests or disease and the new turf that was laid on three pitches also failed to take root. The roots of the new turf were in fact growing away from the pitch soil and dying off, indicating toxic material was present in the soil. This was scientifically confirmed by laboratory tests which state the soil toxicity is above generally accepted levels for garden soil.”

Work commenced this week and is expected to be completed before the end of December at a cost of between $30,000 and $40,000.

Armed robbery in Warren Police have released CCTV images of a man who may be able to assist with enquiries in relation to an armed robbery in Warren.

The incident occurred on November 7 at a local clothing store when a man approached the counter and demanded cash from the female employee while armed with a syringe.

She complied and the robber quickly left.

He is described as being of a slim build, 180cm tall, aged between 25 and 30, and was wearing a white long sleeved shirt with blue sleeves and grey trousers. Investigations continue.

Cuts to the ABC There was plenty of watercooler chatter related to funding cuts to the ABC this week as locals responded to the announcement made by ABC managing director Mark Scott.

Government cutbacks to the ABC and SBS – Australia’s publicly funded broadcasters –– total $308 million over five years. The lion’s share ($254 million) will come from ABC coffers. Scott said the ABC will operate with less funds by: • Shedding one in 10 staff • Closing Adelaide’s television production studio • Ending weekly state editions of the flagship news and current affairs program 7.30 • Winding back television production in smaller states • Shutting five regional radio posts • Reshaping its foreign bureaux • Culling specific programs including the popular national rural and regional radio program Bush Telegraph Andrea Carson, media and politics lecturer at the Centre for Advancing Journalism at the University of Melbourne said the message was loud and clear in the country.

“By cutting back in regional and remote areas – where media choices are already limited compared to those of city cousins and digital connections are often unreliable – the ABC risks sending a message that some parts of Australia are more important to our national conversations than others. “The loss of local voices in diverse places by default suggests that what really matters is news and views from Australia’s largest east coast cities of Sydney

and Melbourne.”

Maybe Scott, who is rumoured to earn up to $800,000, could begin the slashing at home.

Man dies after kayak capsizes A man drowned at Chifley Dam near Bathurst last Saturday after the kayak he was paddling capsized. The accident occurred at about 7.30pm, putting the 36-year-old man and a 5-year-old girl into the water. The man was able to place the girl into another kayak, but went under the water.

Neither of them were wearing lifejackets.

Just before 9pm, police rescue officers recovered his body a short distance from where the kayak capsized.

Police are investigating the incident, and will prepare a brief for the Coroner.

Man charged with assault Police attached to Orana Local Area Command arrested a 27-yearold man after reports the man allegedly assaulted and stabbed a 29-year-old woman and damaged a vehicle in Narromine.

The woman was treated for bruising and a non-life threatening minor injury to her leg.

The man was charged with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, two counts of common assault and malicious damage.

Search underway for escapee A juvenile justice escapee remains at large after running away this week. The 17-year-old did the dash after being taken to Dubbo Base Hospital last Saturday to be treated for a wrist injury.

While the teen was being treated, he managed to escape custody and flee from the hospital.

Police were alerted and officers from Orana Local Area Command conducted a large search for him but he was not located.

He is described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, between 180cm and 185cm tall, with a thin build, black hair and brown eyes.

He is believed to be heading towards Orange, Bourke or Sydney.

Anyone who sees him is urged not to approach him but to contact Triple Zero immediately.

Historian named community treasure Historian Graeme Hosken was named as the 2014 Tony McGrane Award recipient following Monday’s Dubbo Day Awards in the city.

For the past 24 years, the history teacher and historian has dedicated his time to helping residents discover their World War I ancestry.

He is the author of Digging for Diggers which was shortlisted for an award through the Qld Govern-

ment and is one of the best guides to researching a World War I digger.

“Graeme leaves no stone unturned and as we approach the Centenary of ANZAC in April 2015, I am thrilled to present Graeme with the Tony McGrane Public Service Award for his ongoing passion for bringing to life the story of each young digger who went off to fight on foreign soil and reunite them with their families in the here and now,” Dubbo Mayor Mathew Dickerson said.

In total, 15 people received awards for their contribution to the City’s preservation of heritage, sporting clubs, environmental protection, education activities, cultural opportunities and more.

Explosion at pyrotechnics factory Not since an attempted murder occurred in the sleepy village of Bogan Gate has there been so much activity. An explosion and fire which damaged a pyrotechnics storage facility on Sunday is currently being investigated.

Officers from Fire & Rescue NSW, the NSW Rural Fire Service and police from Lachlan Local Area Command responded to reports of a loud explosion and fire at the site, which is also a former military base.

Due to the nature of the explosives stored on-site, a 2km exclusion zone was implemented which resulted in the evacuation of about 20 residents in the immediate vicinity.

The residents have since been able to return home.

The cause of the explosion is unknown, although it is suspected to be weather-related.

Bush blaze brought under control A bushfire which burned 160 ha of bushland in the Goonoo State Forest north east of Dubbo has been brought under control this week.

The blaze was detected early on Monday night following storm activity, with a lightning strike in the area targeted as the most likely cause of the fire.

“We believe it could have come from a lightning strike,” NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Orana team manager Superintendent Lyndon Wieland confirmed. “There doesn’t seem to be any other cause.”

Wieland said the fire was fast-moving and aided by windy conditions.

“It started west of Brennan’s Road, jumped that then ran to the DubboMendooran Road and jumped that, heading in an easterly direction,” he said.

At the fire’s peak, there were 100 firefighters and up to 15 tankers battling the bush blaze.

Wieland told Weekender that overnight rainfall of approximately 5mm assisted firefighters in their mission to extinguish the flames.

The fire was contained within the state forest, so there was minimal threat to private property, including farmland and homes, in the area.

(Re: Too high a price to pay for the thrill of a kill – Weekender 22/11/14) Society only ever protects that which it values.

International campaigns to ban the sale of rhino products, anti-poaching programs and warm, fuzzy first world encouragement to value rhinos in the wild are not working.

Asian buyers are the most powerful drivers of the value of rhino products. To an impoverished African local a rhino looks like a winning lottery ticket with which to feed his family – all for the price of a bullet and a bribe for the official.

First world media is never going to re-educate the millions of South East Asian consumers about the use of rhino product. Environmental groups and African and international governments will never be able to pay anti-poaching teams and corrupt government officials enough to ensure they don’t remain a part of the black market system.

Only through all of us – the Asian buyers of product, the poor African locals and we in the first world – placing sufficient value on rhinos to ensure our vested interests will the rhino survive into the future. The free market (that’s the partnership between the poacher, the corrupt official and the buyer) and those in a position of higher social morals (the rich first world that likes to go on safari) need to find some common ground soon.

The rhino’s only option is to be valued and for this, supply is the key through the commercial farming of rhinos for their horn, meat and as game. Commercial farming should satisfy the needs for all parties. It should drive the price of rhino horn down to a stable and affordable price; it would provide the buyer with regulated product, harvested away from the wild population and in turn this low price should significantly reduce the incentive to poach animals from the wild.

Farmed rhinos don’t need to die nor suffer pain to provide their horn; it’s just like clipping a toe nail or shoeing a horse and they can go on producing year in year out. Rhinos are not cloven hoofed so are softer on country and they can stand up to natural predators. Income per acre/head potential is astronomical, significantly reducing the risk and cost of farming operations compared with cattle and sheep. Most importantly with an assured market there would be a high value placed by all parties on having rhinos around, both in the wild and as farmed animals.

While international funding for the arrogance of the counter argument continues, the rhino continues its demise toward extinction, and the voice of first world will then be able to puff out its chest and say “how could they let this happen”?

Mark Horton – Dubbo

(This letter has been edited because of space constraints.)

•••

Need to redefine “growth” Last week, Weekender regular Greg Smart discussed the dangers of relying on “growth” to measure our national wellbeing (Growth no holy grail as economic hopes trickle down – Weekender 22/11/14), prompting this comment from online reader, “VivKay” GDP growth as an indicator of a nation’s well-being and economic health needs to be redefined. It’s only about how much money is being distributed, not about individual well-being, social justice, living standards and our environmental status – the basis of our future. We need to redefine economic growth to include a much wider and more profound range of attributes, not just monetary values. Growth depends on natural resources and energy, and with declines and increasing scarcities globally, it should be obvious the present system of “economic growth” can’t be sustained.

Your feedback welcome – online + hard copy DUBBO WEEKENDER encourages online readers (via www.dubboweekender.com.au) to comment as a selection may be published each week. Email addresses must be supplied for verification purposes only, not publication, and destructive personal or offensive comments will not be published online or in hard copy.

Dubbo Weekender supports constructive debate and opinion. Letters to the editor are welcome via email feedback@dubboweekender.com.au, fax 6885 4434, or post to 89 Wingewarra Street Dubbo NSW 2830. Letters should generally be 250 words or less, and may be edited for space, clarity or legal reasons. To be considered for publication, letters should include the writer’s name and daytime contact details.

DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

7

OPINION & ANALYSIS

Sally Bryant In my book... familiarity breeds contempt

I

’m house sitting at the moment, looking after the ranch for m’sister who is on holidays. Again. She’s away abroad, posting stories on social media about where she’s eating, how divine the sea breeze is and extolling the virtues of foot massages on the beach and the wonderful shopping. And I’m here at home, feeding the sheep, tending to the high maintenance dog and keeping the garden alive in what we laughingly refer to as quite a warm, dry spring.

And wrangling the cat.

The sheep are actually pretty cool.

They’re in the sheepyards behind the house and they need to be fed every afternoon. There’s only two that are being fed at the moment and they’re a little bit special. Because these are sheep that were rescued as abandoned lambs, bottle fed and generally mollycoddled. They’re not stupid these sheep, they knew a good thing when they saw it. They took one look at m’sister and knew they’d landed on their hooves. (In fact, they’re so cunning, I’d swear you’d say they had landed on their trotters.) They’re pets and there’s no risk of them being sent to market at any time soon.

Some of the sheep that were bottleraised have gone on to “other careers”, but they had their chance. When the mobs were mustered, and the truck was being loaded, m’sister stood at the back of the yard and called the pets. And anyone who didn’t come to the call went on the truck. And, to be fair, that was probably a good thing because the number of pet lambs was getting a bit out of control.

So, if there are so many pet lambs, why am I feeding only two? Well, that’s because the oldest of the pet lambs who is called Cutlet, is the equivalent of an ovine octogenarian and he’s gone blind.

And being blind he’s not really capable of cruising around a paddock and getting a balanced diet. So he’s been brought into the Sunny Acres section of the farm where he’s being fed a combina-

“ I’ve been a bit of a soft touch and I’m being suckered by the Machiavellian little mongrel. So no more Mr Nice Guy from me.

tion of sheep nuts, pony mix and chaff.

And to avoid him being lonely, a perfectly healthy, somewhat younger wether is tucked up in the yards with him. (I tell you, if you believe in reincarnation, you could do a lot worse than coming back as a poddy lamb at m’sister’s place.)

Looking after this pair is not all that onerous; it’s just a bucket of food to each of them each day and making sure they have plenty of water.

And to be fair, the high maintenance dog doesn’t take all that much looking after, physically. She gets her dog nuts, she gets her scrag end bones and offcuts and she’s happy. And she’s easy to get on with, she has lovely manners – she’s had excellent training. But she’s a soft-hearted little creature and she does love to be loved. So wherever you are, she’s right at your feet.

If you’re in the kitchen, she’s lurking just outside the door. If you’re in bed at night, she’s stretched out on the floor in the hall outside. If you’re standing in one room wanting to walk into the room next door? She’ll be lying in the doorway. Bless. She’s a bit too big to get out of her own way. She’s a German – a Doberman Pinscher, and she’s very emotional and just more than a little needy. But essentially a good person.

All very manageable.

And then there’s The Cat. He’s known as Hobie (Cat) and it would be fair say he’s convinced he’s a vessel of far greater import. It’s been said that he’s not A Cat, he’s A Tiger. To be fair there’s probably an element of truth in that. When it comes to his ego, it’s definitely accurate.

If the lion is the King of the Jungle, you might say the tiger is the scheming pretender to the throne. And that would be a fair assessment of the bloke I’m looking after.

This is a cat that has made his name with a few signature moves.

He regularly goes into the wardrobe and pulls out socks and t-shirts and drags them around the room. He walks

across sideboards and knocks vases to the floor, just because he can. He sits on a stool at the kitchen bench and reaches out for whatever is being cut up or prepared on the bench. And when you say “NO”, he looks you in the eye and blinks at you. And doesn’t turn a hair.

He comes into the bedroom in the middle of the night and attacks your feet under the covers. And when the weather is hotter? And you have no covers over your feet? Well, he’s not that bothered by that detail and attacks your feet anyway. And then that behaviour has also started spilling over into other parts of the house.

When his “parents” are home, and he carries on with this sort of caper, the standard response has been for him to be “voted off the island”. That involves him being picked up by the scruff of the neck and taken into the laundry and placed there firmly, the door closed and left there.

Not to say this changes his behaviour but at least his behaviour is restricted to one room in the house. And it’s not a room you have to eat or sleep in. You can walk past the closed door and hear the feline swearing and you don’t have to engage.

But, given I’m the babysitter, I’ve been a bit reluctant to play the authoritarian role. It’s a bit tough, when the animals are missing their parents if the babysitter is nasty. So I’ve been a bit gentle.

As it turns out, I’ve been a bit of a soft touch and I’m being suckered by the Machiavellian little mongrel. So no more Mr Nice Guy from me.

I think the turning point came for me when I heard the dog cry out in the corridor and looked out to see the cat attacking her, with his toy dragon in his jaws.

He was doing it for pure malicious pleasure, she’d done nothing to upset him, it was an exercise in bastardry. It was pure Game of Thrones and the cat was channelling Joffrey.

Time to crack the whip I think.

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DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

We would like to advise our valued patients that Morrison Podiatry Centre will cease trading on 19th December. Thank you for your support and friendship over the years, we have truly appreciated it. We wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas.

Meagan, Dana and Glenys.

IMAGE: Michael Jardine

Weekender regular Sally Bryant was born with her nose in a book and if no book is available, she finds herself reading Cornflakes packets, road signs and instruction manuals for microwaves. All that information has to go somewhere...

BY NATALIE BRAMBLE

OPINION & ANALYSIS

The Watercooler Chop, chop and away!

A couple of blokes in the UK thought they would take an unusual spin in promoting a novelist friend’s book Meatspace by doing exactly as its title describes – taking meat into space.

With the help of a balloon, a fork, a tandoori lamb chop and a GoPro fitted with GPS, they finally provided to the vexing question: what happens to a balloon when it’s released?

The resulting video is well worth a look, if only for the novelty of seeing a lamb chop orbit the earth.

Beware the drones Another discussion about the issue of privacy has been heating up as people in the US and Australia complain about drones invading their personal space.

In Australia there has already been a parliamentary committee recommendation for stronger privacy laws surrounding the use of drones and it couldn’t come sooner for at least one home owner in Victoria.

Drones are a popular way for some agents to capture a low-cost aerial shot of a property that’s for sale. But for one unsuspecting neighbour, a shot of her sunbaking topless adorning on a billboard of sale next door was an unexpected outcome.

A small pic of the back of an unrecognisable person sunbaking (it’s so small it’s hard to tell she really is topless) was splashed

across national headlines and it seems she was embarrassed by the “invasion of privacy” – embarrassed enough get publicity pics of her now recognisable face. I get it. I do.

It was a breach of privacy, and the incident can be used to draw attention to the need for a change in the laws surrounding the use of drones.

But if she was embarrassed by a billboard, I think national news crews zooming in on the offending shot and reproducing it across the internet had the opposite effect – it just decreased her privacy and increased her embarrassment.

Stand up for what you believe in – but apparently it’s okay to get your 15 seconds of fame at the same time.

Pollie party parties for a pretty penny One Victorian pollie has pulled the plug on a celebration party that would have cost $200,000 should their preferred candidate become the new premier of that state. And just as well that plug’s been yanked.

I know these things call for a celebration but $200k for 100 selected few to have a bit of a knees-up is way over the top.

Good to see that wiser political heads have realised that so much more could be done with those funds. It’s a cash strapped constituency out there these days, and with so many non-profits left to bear the burden of helping those less fortunate, wasting public

Management consultant Natalie Bramble is as well known around the traps for her tireless community efforts and business acumen as for her unique and ready laugh. And you’d be surprised what she picks up around the ‘watercooler’ while she’s traversing this wide brown land in the name of work...

funds on celebratory functions are no longer acceptable.

There’s a message inherent there for other pollies and local elected officials as they prep for the party season when the elected few host a shout or two on the public purse.

Oh, c’mon Kimmy Do you wonder what Kim Kardashian will do now that she has #brokentheinternet #not? No? You’re not alone. But it seems the woman who’s most famous for simply being famous has promised faithful followers a nude spread of her post-baby belly and after some harassing from said followers to #fulfilyourpromise, she caved and gave them what they wanted.

For someone who shot fame with a sex video I’m sure it’s nothing new and I’m sure her fans are eager for the next thing she’ll do to get media space.

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6885 5777 • 70 River St, Dubbo Opening hours: Monday-Friday: 8:30am - 5:30pm Saturday: 9:00am-12:00pm, Sunday: Closed DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

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WHAT I DO KNOW

Mike Winkworth: The Two Kings

My Mum just loved Elvis, Little Richard, Chuck Berry... so I grew up with that. I wasn’t quite old enough to really have a true appreciation but I listened to it and grew up with it and grew to love it. I think this music is so popular because of the energy and rhythms and if you can recreate that, then it will be good.

You can’t help tapping your feet. I give it that, and some originality and rawness in my performance. The dawn of rock ‘n’ roll was about youth shouting out, it was young people’s music as a rebellion of everything, and that they’d had enough of Perry Como and Bing Crosby and wanted something more.

2SM in Sydney used to have a half hour of straight Elvis and if you knew the song, you could ring up and win an album. We all looked forward to that and I think that Mum won a few times because she knew the names of the songs.

We had a Polish lady that used to come over with a guitar, she was a family friend and she could play three chords, quite badly. From the minute I heard that, I just wanted to be a singer.

I have a degree in social work and did that for a while but the desire to be a full-time entertainer never left me.

The love of music, the creativity, it’s exciting.I started on the professional talent quest circuit in Sydney. My aim was

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Photo: supplied

An entertainer with a strong love of the glory days of rock ‘n’ roll, Mike Winkworth presents both the big ‘O’ Roy Orbison and the King, Elvis Presley, in one big show. He’s also been a social worker, lived overseas and is married to an African princess.

He talked to Weekender about Johnny O’Keefe, learning guitar from a Polish lady and how music can fill your soul.

Words Natalie Holmes to get as much experience working with different bands as I could. They all feel a little bit different.

One day, all the agents came to Paddington RSL. We were asked to perform a 20-minute audition and if they liked you, they would take you on. They gave me heaps of gigs and I became a support act for a lot of major acts.

I was scared to death when I started, but I wanted it more than breathing. It was my life. But I was petrified.

My tongue was thick, mouth dry and my hands were shaking. But I got the experience that I needed and became more comfortable on stage.

I got a degree in social work and did that for a long time. It was just something that I liked and I thought I would be good at it. I became a Department of Community Services representative on the NSW Domestic Violence committee and worked a lot in domestic violence, working in Campbelltown and Lismore.

You can’t take it home with you or you will burn out quickly. I was also a manager in drug and alcohol rehabilitation with the Wesley Central Mission and I was the welfare coordinator for the Salvation Army on the South Coast.

Music called me back and I decided one day to give up social work and go back to music. Without it, I wasn’t as

happy. There’s something about it that’s spiritual, creative; it’s part of the essence of a person. There are people with fantastic voices who don’t have the passion and then there are people like Johnny O’Keefe who had the passion and the confidence more than the voice.

I met a musician called Aaron Beasley who asked me to have a jam with him, he was a keyboard player. I didn’t really think it would happen but it did and we sounded really good together. We formed a duet called The Hound Dogs, playing rock ‘n’ roll, country rock and the blues.

Since then, I’ve played in duos, trios, solos and bands...all sorts of musical gigs all over the country. I also want to record two or three new songs and next year, I want to record a brand new CD with original material.

I have a three octave vocal range and am able to get the timbre I need so that I can actually sound like Roy and Elvis.

But I’m not an imitator, I don’t imitate and sometimes I do things differently.

I’m not here to be an impersonator – there’s only one Roy and Elvis. Every time I walk out, I say, “Let’s just try to have fun with it”. It’s part of being a showman and I just get in that zone. I feel the music for myself, I don’t try to copy every nuance of their being or any-

DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

thing. I just say it how I feel it and it’s an interpretation, sometimes I get lost in the audience.

I lived in South Africa for a couple of years. It was fantastic, I really loved it. I just wanted to go to Africa. I did a lot of corporate work over there, it was something different.

I met my wife Julianna there too. She comes from Ghana. It was love at first sight for us and ever since, we haven’t left one another’s sight. We’ve been together for 11 years.

She’s actually a real-life African princess as her father was the king of the Ga people. She’s from Accra, the capital of Ghana. Before we met, she had heard Elvis and rock ‘n’ roll on the radio but didn’t really know it. They have a different style of music.

Sometimes people are moved by the music and they’re in tears with the emotion. I met a woman whose husband had recently died and she wanted to hear Love Me Tender because it was their bridal waltz (emotionally). There are not many things you can do in life that touch people’s hearts like that. >> Mike Winkworth will perform as The Two Kings in the Dubbo RSL Club Theatrette at 2.30pm on Sunday, November 30.

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FEATURE

For those who are grieving, Christmas can be anything but a time of peace, happiness and goodwill. Weekender talked to NALAG’s Trudy Hanson about coping with grief and loss at a time when the rest of the world is celebrating. WORDS and PHOTOGRAPHY Jen Cowley

C

hristmas. It’s a time for families, a time for celebration, a time for loving and giving and receiving. But it’s also a time for remembering, and for many it can bring loss and grief into unbearably sharp focus. For those who are mourning, Christmas can be anything but happy.

When there’s an empty seat at the festive table, the season can be fraught for families, whether that seat is vacant through bereavement or illness or separation and watching the rest of the world kicking up its Yuletide heels only serves to magnify that loss and grief.

Mental health practitioners traditionally see a spike in the need for their services around Christmas time, and the fallout from emotional strain can be devastating.

It’s something for which Trudy Hanson, an experienced grief counsellor and manager of NALAG (National Association for Loss and Grief) braces herself and her team every year.

“Over the years, we’ve seen that Christmas, more than any other time on the calendar, can be a very difficult and isolating time for those who are trying to cope with grief and loss,” says Hanson, who has decades of experience in the field.

“And there are all kinds of loss that can make Christmas a very sad time – it might be because this is the first Christmas without a loved one. People might be facing the imminent death or ongoing illness of a loved one, or it might simply be that Christmas exacerbates the pain of missing someone, either through the death of or separation from that person.

Whether it’s a parent or partner who has left the family or a loved one has died, the loss can be felt more intensely at this time of year.”

Because of society’s focus on Christmas, being the most widely celebrated season on the Christian calendar, there can be an added pressure brought to bear on those who are grieving.

“They might feel as if they’re out of step with all the “jolliness” of the season.

They might feel as if they’re “letting the

12

side down” if they’re not happy and celebrating – and at this time of year, that celebration is hard to escape. The trappings of Christmas – the decorations, the carols, the parties – are everywhere, and it can be overwhelming, and the sadness can be overwhelming.”

People who have not experienced a significant bereavement may not understand the inconceivable sense of sadness, yearning and anger that can often accompany such meaningful rituals as Christmas, according to Hanson.

“In our community there’s an unfortunate notion, or sense, that sadness and feelings of loss should be put aside over the Christmas season – and that can make the person who can’t just “snap out of it” feel like they’re spoiling it for everyone else.

“This enforced gaiety can cause even more stress and heartache – the person may feel they’re a failure because they can’t just put on a brave face. Sometimes they might be able to hide their true feelings, but at what cost?”

The cost, says Hanson, is often the onset of depression – so it’s important to help those who are grieving to understand that it’s okay to be sad at this time of year. That there’s no sunset clause on grief, and there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to feel or act.

Despite the sadness, Christmas can still be a special time for those who are grieving, says Hanson.

“With a little planning and preparing, we can cope with the season, and help others to cope too. By acknowledging the loss, and sometimes just changing the way things are done – for instance some of the rituals surrounding this time of year – surviving Christmas can be made a little easier.” >> If you are struggling to cope, help is available. Contact NALAG on 6882 4222 or for further information, go to www.nalag. org.au.

If you, or someone you care about, needs urgent help, contact Lifeline on 11 13 14.

DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

“ “Enforced gaiety can cause even more stress and heartache – the person may feel they’re a failure because they can’t just put on a brave face (for Christmas).”

– Trudy Hanson, grief counsellor and NALAG manager

Managing your grief and loss at Christmas: • Do something special in memory of the person who has died – light a candle, put a special ornament on the tree or play a significant song.

• Plan the time so you’re under as little stress as possible. Don’t be afraid to ask for help with preparations.

• Plan an “escape” if need be – don’t over commit.

Rehearse a simple explanation as to why you’re not able to go to a party or function.

• Share your memories and stories – it’s okay to cry.

And it’s okay to laugh, too.

• Allow yourself to have some fun – if you’re feeling happy, go with the flow. It doesn’t mean you’re forgetting or forsaking the person who isn’t there with you.

• Take each day as it comes. Let people know if you want to “go slow” or to be alone if you need to.

• Do something special for yourself – give yourself permission to take time out.

• Give yourself time to think about the person you are missing. Listen to music, look at photos – allow yourself to cry if you need to. This can help you to be less likely to be overwhelmed or caught off guard

by Christmas “triggers”.

• Accept help – if you feel you’re not coping well, reach out to people you trust. Accept offers of support or company.

• If children are missing the person too, involve them and find out how they would like to remember their loved one.

• If your family has been split through divorce or separation, there can be a logistic struggle for children. Make it easier for them by including them in plans and making the transition between their “two places” as smooth as possible. Try to avoid competition over time spent with the children, or the size and expense of gifts.

What can you do to help someone who is grieving?

• Be a good listener – people need to know they can talk about their sadness. Acknowledge their grief – you can’t heal it, but you can be there for them, hear their story and share their sadness.

• Be a shoulder to cry on – let them know it’s okay to cry. Crying helps release emotions and this helps the healing process.

• Stay in touch – drop in, call and say “I’m thinking of you”. Try to remember special anniversaries or significant days.

• Be a friend – often, just being there is all that’s needed to support someone who is grieving.

• Don’t be afraid to talk about the person who has died. Trying to avoid mentioning their name can make the grieving person feel their sadness isn’t normal.

• It’s okay to say, “I don’t know what to say”. You don’t have to say anything – just be there.

• Understand if they need time to be alone. Don’t be offended by their need for “time out”. *Adapted from NALAG’s “Coping with Grief at Christmas” literature.

Remembering at Christmas The National Association for Loss and Grief (NALAG) will host a Blue Christmas Remembrance Ceremony on Thursday, December 11 at the centre in Welchman Street, Dubbo, beginning at 10.00am.

The day will also include a creative craft event, with people invited to create a lasting special symbol to remember their loved one. There will be an opportunity for scrapbooking, creating a Christmas bauble in honour of a loved one, writing a card or simply spending the day being supported by the caring volunteers and staff at NALAG. A Christmas Tree Ritual will conclude the day’s gathering, with guests invited to place a special item of remembrance on the Christmas tree.

The Blue Christmas Remembrance Day events are FREE and everyone is welcome, but please RSVP by December 10 to NALAG on 6882 4222.

DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014 

13

COMMENT

Aussie cups runneth over with quality brew A

large decaf latte, with half skim milk, half full cream milk, no froth and extra chocolate, thanks.

Wait...what? Yes, that’s just the kind of odd coffee request baristas around Australia receive on a day-to-day basis.

It seems we’ve become a culture of coffee fanatics. Whether you need one as soon as you see the light of day, rely on it for a mid-morning kick or use it to fight the 3pm slump, coffee has become an expensive but necessary habit for many of us.

Long ago was coffee simply black or white; today you can have it with skinny, soy, or almond milk; at half or double strength; topped up or extra hot. A cup of coffee has not only become a quintessential kick-start to the day, but “having a coffee” has also become a go-to meeting point for all – giggling teens, young lovers, gossiping women, those rolling solo, blind daters, businesspeople and old married couples. The coffee culture is non-discriminatory and the little cup of goodness can be tweaked to satisfy all taste buds. We coffee aficionados each have our own idiosyncratic orders and our favourite barista and we can’t wait until we get to our tenth cup for “free”.

The knack of coffee making has become a specialised profession requiring training, knowledge and a little bit of love. Baristas not only need to remember every regular customer’s name and unique order, but also how to roast those beans to perfection without burning them bitter and to steam that milk to a silky 65° Celsius. It’s not just making coffee – it’s an art.

Anyone can make a cup of something that tastes no better than dirty dishwater, but finding a “good” coffee is like finding gold at the end of the rainbow.

There’s nothing better than taking a sip of a perfectly poured, smooth and silky, divinely frothy cup of hot coffee. I must declare, we are so spoiled here in Oz. Big call, but I’m going to say it... no one in the world can make a coffee like Australian baristas. Call me biased, but I recently travelled to Europe – including to

Comment by Lydia Pedrana Dubbo born and bred Lydia Pedrana is chasing her dream of a career in the media.

“ It’s safe to say Australia has become a nation of coffee enthusiasts. Last year we spent a scorching $3 billion on this steamy addiction. ” Italy – and I only had one decent cup of coffee in eight weeks (in Dublin, Ireland in case you were wondering).

Here at home, a renowned barista at one of Dubbo’s favourite coffee haunts told me he chooses “interesting coffees that complement each other to ensure we deliver a flavour suitable to the market”. He also compares coffee to wine in the way the origin, climate and harvest process will impact the final flavour. So he always looks to source his coffee from “quality farmers”.

Having a coffee that tastes good is one thing. Having one that looks good is another. The recent trend, officially defined as “latte art”, is a technique that involves the meticulous pouring of foamy milk on top the coffee crema, creating a picture perfect mixture of two colloids.

Gone are the days chocolate powder was simply shaken through a stencil; it’s now common for your coffee to come with a complimentary rosette, tulip or heart etched lovingly on top.

Even I remember the days where a measly $2.50 could get you a hot cup of caffeine, but now my morning hit takes the bestt part of a five-dollar note. Mul-

The recent “latte art” trend: a humble bunny, Photo: Lydia Pedrana

tiply that by seven days, then 52 weeks and... I don’t even want to finish that sentence. Despite the inflated price, statistics show each Aussie drinks an average of 9.2 cups of the good stuff a week.

So do we drink it for the taste? The kick?

The sociality? For me, it seems to be a delicious concoction of all three.

Coffee and caffeine go hand in hand with hotly debated health benefits and detriments. We all know stained teeth and bad breath are the products over consumption but research shows the stimulant may not be so bad for us after all. It seems not only does caffeine improve short-term alertness, but may also reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s dis-

ease. Coffee is also thought to prevent Type-2 diabetes, protect the liver and decrease the risk of dying from heart disease. On the flip side, roasted coffee contains multiple known carcinogens and is believed to decrease blood flow to the heart.

So no matter how you have it, why you have it or when you have it, it’s safe to say Australia has become a nation of coffee enthusiasts. Last year we spent a scorching $3 billion on this steamy addiction. Whether you prefer a long black, soy latte, caramel cappuccino or flimsy flat white, it’s time to admit it... many of us can’t get through the day without at least one.

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COMMENT

Country cousins in mourning for a favourite Aunty I

t’s been a tough week in Australian media circles, with expected cuts to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) being handed down

by Communications Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

Freedom of the press is one of the tools of a healthy democracy, and while rumours of leftist bias have surrounded the current manifestation of the ABC, there’s no doubt in my mind that any quashing of its news and current affairs unit can be seen as a hand on the mouth of the media’s right to critique the parliament. Luckily we do not live under a dictatorship, and to a large extent journalists and commentators do not have to fear retribution for their words, or at least they shouldn’t.

The ABC’s editorial content has long been a bone of contention with the Coalition, but it’s just not cricket to expect the public broadcaster to play on Team Australia when it’s very existence is built on a free media, or a media that is free from interference from the state. Yes, the government funds the ABC, but it’s our “eight cents a day” that pays for it.

The Abbott government was given a mandate to rule on their promise not to cut ABC or SBS funding, a promise we all know was repeated by the Prime Minister himself on the eve of the 2013 election. Unfortunately these policy backflips seem to be the modus operandi of current Australian political parties.

The reality is that these cuts have resulted in the axing of some vital regional content, production studios and actual jobs on the ground. These services are now being centralised in the big cities. It’s easy enough to dismiss these ‘savings’ as political. But with a country as large as ours, it’s so important to recognise the value of regional voices, and to establish our stories as part of the national cultural narrative. It is advantageous to

Comment by Madeleine Allen Regional ex-pat Madeleine Allen has a background in media and communications.

Her passions are pop culture, politics and ideas, some of which she shares here.

rural as well as urban audiences, and helps bridge the gap between these very distinct populations.

The government is counter attacking with claims the ABC’s general manager, Mark Scott, is using the cuts to execute his own long standing agenda. I’d argue he’s always had the power to make unpopular decisions and a restructure was almost always on the cards regardless (making way for the digital revolution that has been brewing in the ABC multiplatform departments for some time).

Wherever the blame may lie, the feeling on the street seems to be bemusement around how out of touch our politicians have become. The ABC is famously referred to as Aunty, a term indicative of the love, respect and sometimes frustrations we all share with our public broadcaster. Who else but Aunty is going to babysit our kids (ABC4Kids), listen to our political rants on twitter (QandA), stay up late with us on a weekend (RAGE) and make us laugh at things that probably should make us mad (Shaun Micallef/The Chaser)?

The Government has underestimated the sentiment Australia has for the ABC. So it marks a sad day when the so called leaders of our country fail to comprehend the importance and reliability of such an institution to the population they serve.

“ It’s so important to recognise the value of regional voices, and to establish our stories as part of the national cultural narrative. ”

Advertising space supported with a smile by DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

15

ON THE SOAPBOX

Our future is poetry in magnate’s motion I have recently re-stumbled on a golden nugget in the lexicon of Australian literature.

Like a child walking through a messy bedroom and stubbing their toe on a fossilised sandwich, my soul has been reawakened with a piece that rivals the great wordsmiths: Byron, Blake, and of course, Bush.

I speak of none other than one of Australia’s national treasures (who coincidentally owns Australia’s national treasure), Gina Rinehart: our prospective poet laureate.

With its sacred words first read more than two and a half years ago, somehow my memories of such a masterpiece had gone up in smoke, a bit like her coal does.

If you too have forgotten what will be remembered as the magnum opus of Gina Rinehart, then I humbly implore you to prepare yourself. I present to you “Our Future”:

Our Future The globe is sadly groaning with debt, poverty and strife And billions now are pleading to enjoy a better life

Comment by Matt Doohan

Matt Doohan is spending his post school year at school – “giving back” as a teaching assistant at his alma mater while he works out what career path his future might take.

Their hope lies with resources buried deep within the earth And the enterprise and capital which give each project worth Is our future threatened with massive debts run up by political hacks Who dig themselves out by unleashing rampant tax The end result is sending Australian investment, growth and jobs offshore This type of direction is harmful to our core Some envious unthinking people have been conned To think prosperity is created by waving a magic wand Through such unfortunate ignorance, too much abuse is hurled

Against miners, workers and related industries who strive to build the world Develop North Australia, embrace multiculturalism and welcome short term foreign workers to our shores To benefit from the export of our minerals and ores The world’s poor need our resources: do not leave them to their fate Our nation needs special economic zones and wiser government, before it is too late. – Gina Rinehart Bravo! I’ve already cried my way through three boxes of tissues while reading through it again. Take note of her specific references to “related industries”, “short term foreign workers” and “special economic zones”: getting to the heart of our nation’s issues, without even needing any kind syllabic flow. She is truly an auteur, stretching the boundaries of poetic licence like no Australian ever before.

In honour of her tear-jerking finesse, I have strived to pay tribute. While indulging in some intensive soul-searching, and enjoying a few mimosas along the way, I’ve penned an homage in the Iambic Ginameter of “Our Future”.

I’ll be awaiting my Nobel Prize in the mail.

Ode to a Ginian Curd “ She is truly an auteur; stretching the boundaries of poetic licence like no Australian ever before. ”

16

The world is in bitter chaos with misery and war, And it’s sad that some people do not want to do much more.

DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

But at least we have our Gina, whose social conscience glows Like some phlegm that a child has picked out of their tiny nose.

O Gina, you are a voice for the world’s vulnerable poor.

You say they need our help, and I agree we must do more.

But if you care so much about those who need our foreign aid, Maybe you’d support bigger tax on the absolute motza you’ve made.

Mining has its benefits: this no one can deny; At least it sends your profits straight up into the sky.

And when you clear out of Dodge once all the earth has been mined, Don’t worry about the rural husks you leave behind.

And of course, that which has such an intrinsic role: Who could forget our ravenous hunger for coal?

It makes us so much warmer by day and night, So let’s keep on burning it: it lasts forever right?

I’m glad you care so much, Gina, but you seem a bit lost: To help all these people might come at more than a slight cost.

So if you think you can harvest the nation’s wealth and not expect to pay fair rent, Your idea of the good you are doing might be a little bent.

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COMMENT

No sunset clause on justice for Janine

D

uring my 27 years in the NSW Police Force – the majority in forensic investigation – I have shared the grief of families torn apart by the vicious and senseless taking of a life. Murder most foul! There is no crime more abhorrent to society. It transcends all boundaries of reasoning, of rationale and of basic humanity.

When a murder happens, the first question usually asked is – why? That is an easy question to ask but requires a gigantic effort to properly answer. I found myself on many occasions to be part of such an effort.

I have lost count of the endless days and sleepless hours I have spent investigating homicides. I have also lost count of the number of crime scenes I have processed over those years.

The most ‘memorable’ of those crimes was the murder in 1988 of Janine Balding who was abducted in her car from the Sutherland train station by a gang of homeless street urchins. Taken at knifepoint in broad daylight, raped and sexually abused by her abductors, God only knows the terror to which she was subjected. One cannot imagine what went through her mind when she was dragged half naked from her vehicle as she pleaded for her life, while being gagged and hog-tied, then lifted over a fence and carried to a dam where she was held under the water until she struggled no more.

Janine’s body lay in filthy mud for two days prior to being discovered, thus setting in train a roller-coaster ride of an investigation that delved into the dark world of the homeless street urchins of Sydney. I worked on that case for nearly two years and came in to contact with

Comment by STEVE PEARSON Steve Pearson is a former forensics police officer, who worked on the investigation into the 1988 murder of Sydney woman, Janine Balding. More than a quarter of a century after her killers were committed to life behind bars, the United Nations Human Rights Committee has ruled that the sentences imposed are a breach of human rights. What about the Balding family’s rights? asks Pearson.

each of the suspects during the early stages of the investigation. They were not nice beings. Their bravado and “couldn’t-givea-shit” attitude was a constant reminder of the philosophy of their breed – permeating the Coroner’s Court and eventually the Supreme Court where that attitude spoke volumes for their ignorance of the seriousness of the situation in which they had placed themselves.

Throughout the Coroner’s hearings and the eventual trials I came to know Janine’s family well. I tried to comprehend the misery that had been brought to their lives. Janine’s mother Beverley spent every day in court and was constantly subjected to that “couldn’t-give-ashit” attitude that exuded from the dock.

The first trial was aborted, and the family had to saddle up for the second and sit through the same harrowing evidence, again suffering that “couldn’t-

give-a-shit” attitude.

Despite denials by all suspects of their involvement in Janine’s death, DNA evidence placed one of them at the scene and in unspeakable violation of Janine’s body. The remaining suspects were, by association, implicated in her death.

At trial, weeks of intense examination and cross-examination led to the only conclusion possible – guilty. For investigators, such a verdict is cause for quiet celebration of a job well done. For people like Kerry and Beverley Balding however, such a verdict is a massive relief.

The trial judge during sentencing in 1990 said that the crime was “so barbaric” that a life sentence should be imposed. “So grave is the nature of this case that I recommend that none of the prisoners in this matter should ever be released” he said. That definition of “life sentence” became a reality nearly 10 years later when then NSW Premier Bob Carr introduced legislation whereby life in gaol meant just that – life! That meant a lot to the Balding family.

I have kept contact with the Baldings over the years, sharing their being dragged into the frustrating world of appeals by their daughter’s killers.

They challenged and exhausted every avenue of trying to return to society, with each appeal being rejected by the most learned legal minds in the country. The on-going strain placed on that family has been horrendous. As Janine’s brother David said recently, “Just when you think it’s over, it’s on again.”

Last month, more than 26 years since

“ Janine Balding is no longer a victim. Her mother, father and brother are still victims. ”

Janine was murdered, the United Nations’ Human Rights Committee asked the Federal Government to review the entire case and remedy what it said were the breaches of human rights imposed on two of the offenders, finding that the life sentences handed down are a “cruel, inhuman and degrading punishment”. Ruth Barson from the Human Rights Law Centre told the UN, “No one is questioning the terrible nature of the crimes committed, but an effective and lawful response to children committing such crime requires more than simply locking them up and throwing away the key.”

Really Miss Barnson? Who is going to remedy the breach of human rights imposed on Janine Balding? Who is going to remedy the breach of human rights being imposed on Janine’s family by having everything thrown back in their faces by your genre?

Perhaps you should, like I do, sit down over a cup of coffee with Janine’s family, and ask each of them who the real victims are.

Janine Balding is no longer a victim.

Her mother, father and brother are still victims. They should have been able to lay Janine to rest and get on with their lives in the knowledge that these animals could inflict no more unspeakable evil on another human being. They have to endure these incessant appeals and other legal actions that keep opening old wounds and make them bleed just a little more each time.

Democracy and our legal system allow us the privilege of making appeals to higher authorities if we believe we are wronged. But, when is enough enough?

I rest my case.

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’Tis the season to increase your sales The best retail sales period of the year is upon us.

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PROFILE

The accidental author Dubbo lady Pat Clarke was settling into retirement when the opportunity arose to embark on a second career. She has since published four books in four years and doesn’t look like slowing down anytime soon. Words Natalie Holmes Photo Hayley Ferris

20

W

hen I first chat to Dubbo author Pat Clarke about the launch of her new book Howie the Yowie, she offers to dress up in a yowie suit for the interview. With the outside 40+ degree temperatures rising to well above what one would consider to a pleasant spring day, I politely decline the offer, telling her it won’t be necessary.

But it’s during this initial interaction that I begin to like this delightful lady whose writing career took off at the tender age of 70.

For her family and friends, it was an additional reason to be proud of their mother, grandmother, wife and friend.

“My husband Harley was so proud and supportive because I’d found something I was good at. He was also happy to back me financially because I’d

DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

been an inexpensive wife,” she laughs.

For Clarke herself, it came as a huge surprise.

Unlike other writers, who usually declare they’ve been writing since they were knee-high to a grasshopper, the extent of Clarke’s writing experience to that point was most likely shopping lists and reminder notes.

“This was something that I’d never experienced before,” she admits after ushering me into her home office.

There’s both a computer and a lap-top neatly set up at her work station, a shelf piled with classic books and stuffed animals and various photographs containing many fond memories. Along one wall sit boxes of Clarke’s four published books, and on her desk sit items of correspondence. A few promotional posters for her books

adorn the walls and bookshelf.

Youthful and fresh in a white cotton top, her eyes sparkling with delight, Clarke talks about how her transition from newlyretired to author occurred.

“Most writers are writing from when they are little,” she says with a broad smile.

“I was busy being a Mum and working doing office work. Then our grandchildren came to live with us when they were aged two and four. We had a property we bought about the same time, 1000 acres of bushland with a really old shack on it.

“It was lovely to go out there and in the bush with them and spend time.”

Until that time, Clarke confesses she hadn’t been much of an animal lover, and

had grown up surrounded by concrete and high-rises. But she began observing the native fauna of the bush on her visits to the property.

“I was brought up in Sydney and knew nothing about birds or native animals. I had no particular love of them or knowledge. It just happened,” she confesses.

“I started to become conscious of saving them, and I began to connect with them.”

The Clarkes’ new property was near the Goonoo State Forest, north-east of Dubbo.

Once her mind started whirling with the processes of writing a children’s book, the forest quickly became the magical location of her very first story, aptly titled The Magic Forest of Goonoo, which Clarke self-

published with the help of her late husband Harley in 2010.

“When I was in third class, my teacher would read a chapter each afternoon of Enid Blyton’s The Magic Faraway Tree, I looked forward to that time each day and I loved to read.

“I’d never heard of the Goonoo forest until my son and his children decided to explore it. When we bought the property, I realised that we had our own magic forest.”

“

I was brought up in Sydney and knew nothing about birds or native animals.

DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014 21

I

deas started to form in Clarke’s mind and what happened next was unexpected to say the least.

“Once I got to making up stories, the rest just happened. I’d left work and I was 70

PROFILE

when I produced my first book. Suddenly, I had a second career,” she laughs.

Until that point, Clarke had been focused on raising her family and working until retirement. But when she began tapping away at the typewriter, she also tapped into something that was beyond even her imagination.

She joined the Outback Writer’s Centre to gain some experience in writing and the rest of her career as an author grew from that point onwards.

“I’d been busy raising three boys, and I have five grandchildren.

“I had no training as a writer but it was almost as though I’d gone back to childhood in a way.”

As well as Enid Blyton books, Clarke loves classic children’s stories such as Winnie the Pooh, Anne of Green Gables and Wind in the Willows.

After making her own writing debut, Clarke has gone on to publish The Flying Lesson (2013), A One-Eyed Chook Called Sheila (2014) and her latest offering Howie the Yowie (2014).

She has joined publishing house New Frontier and their Little Steps Publishing, for the publication of the past three books and collaborated with Narrabri illustrator Graeme Compton.

It seems there’s no stopping this energetic grandmother.

“I have a million stories,” she says, “And working with Graeme is a wonderful collaboration. I write and send to him when I’ve done half.”

Clarke still pinches herself when she looks at her beautiful hardcover collection of books, which now includes a children’s classic in the form of her latest offering, a fact which excites Clarke to no end.

BRATING FIRST VERSARY

“ Rather than planning, I sit down at the typewriter and start writing, I don’t really have a plan.

“It’s thrilling, I was overwhelmed. The presentation (of the book) is just so beautiful. I just hope it lives up to expectations.”

Clarke says preparation for her writing relies more on inspiration than dedication.

“Rather than planning, I sit down at the typewriter and start writing, I don’t really have a plan.”

It hasn’t all been plain sailing for the accidental author, who says she chose to self-publish her first book because publishers are so difficult to reach, much less impress.

“Unless you’re famous, they don’t want a bar of you,” she points out.

But now that she’s on a roll, Clarke is excited by the prospect of writing more and experiencing the adventures of her characters.

“The characters come alive to you and once you start, it almost writes itself. I don’t really know where it comes from and when I’m writing, time just flies.”

T

hrough her writing, Clarke is also hoping to educate children on certain lessons in life, aiding their moral compass.

“I like the story to have a message so they learn some-

thing from it,” she points out. “And if they see new words, for them to be asking questions and learning.”

She also loves that the children she entertains through her books are being raised in a rural setting and enjoys visiting them in schools and at her launches.

“It’s wonderful for children to be brought up in the bush. And they like to see the author, it’s nice for them.”

Success has certainly taken this former administrator to new places she never expected. She is now selling her books locally as well as in Sydney, and regularly visits schools and libraries to do readings and share her work.

“It’s taken me by surprise. And the thing about writing is that you can write about things that happen.

Some of the stories in my books have actually happened in my family. But you use a bit of artistic licence on the page.”

As the interview winds up, Clarke presents me with signed copies of her entire collection of books which I will certainly treasure and no doubt share with my own family. After all, I have already enjoyed my first foray into her writing.

“The lovely thing is that the adults like the books too,” she says, her eyes twinkling with joy once more.

Let’s hope this remarkable author continues to find many more stories to share in the future, and to be enjoyed for generations to come. >> The book launch of Howie the Yowie will be held at Macquarie Regional Library, Dubbo, at 1pm on Saturday, November 29 (today). Meet Pat Clarke and illustrator Graeme Compton. Includes book signings, limited edition prints and light refreshments.

CELEBRATING OUR FIRST ANNIVERSARY To thank the community for all their support in the past year, we would like to show our support for a heathy, thriving local community by hosting the DPMC Healthy Community Fun Day

Come celebrate with us and have a great day out whilst helping to support some of your local community groups.

Zumba with Tracy at 11am • Jumping Castle • Activities • Local stalls • Food • Community stalls • and more!

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be a jumping castle, activities, , food, Zumba with Tracy @ 11am, y groups and more.

When: Saturday 6th December From:December 10am-3pm 6th Where: Delroy Park Medical Centre, 2-4 Carnegie Ave, Dubbo, NSW 2830

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ADVERTORIAL

FAREWELL MIKE!

Media & Marketing Minute Compiled by the Sales & Marketing team at Dubbo Photo News/Dubbo Weekender

The team at the Good Guys would like to wish Mike Jones all the best for the future. He has been working with The Good Guys for over 11 years and is now retiring.

Christmas marketing ideas. And bad squirrels.

H

I and welcome to Panscott Media’s Marketing Minute. This week’s opening print ad (above) is another example of using a strong image to deliver a simple message. The 3M company ran this ad to promote its mobile phone privacy filter. Clever!

Christmas marketing ideas FOR most people reading this, the next 30 days are going to be the busiest time of the year. If you’re in retail, this is your time to shine – this is your time to keep those sales figures running hotter than a Dubbo summer!

You may already have your Christmas marketing campaign locked in, so these ideas are add-ons you could consider using.

1. You’re likely to see plenty of new customers as shoppers look for gift ideas so get the name, address and/or email address from as many as you can to add to your direct marketing list. (Of course, be sure to get their permission.) After Christmas you’ll be able to personally invite them back with a special offer.

2. ‘Tis the season to be generous. All being well, you’ll do well this Christmas.

Why not share the spirit of Christmas with those less fortunate by choosing a charity and offering to take donations on their behalf in your store.

3. Book a ‘Christmas Greetings’ ad in your local paper. (Yes, we’ll be doing these in Dubbo Photo News and Weekender.) They’re the perfect way to send best wishes to the whole Dubbo community and let everyone know your holiday trading hours.

4. 12 Days of Christmas promotion.

This is an oldie but a goodie. Offer a 12% discount (or whatever discount you choose) on a different item on each of the 12 trading days leading up to Christmas. Promote it well. It’ll get people talking, interested and into your store.

5. Give your customers a Christmas treat. Surprise shoppers who spend above a certain value by giving them a free gift. It doesn’t have to be of great value. It’s the thought that counts! And they’ll remember you for it.

6. Stack ‘em high and watch ‘em fly! If it’s getting close to Christmas Day and you still have big stocks of a particular product left to sell, consider putting them on show in a big pile at front of store – at a big discount. You may run the risk of putting off customers who’ve already bought the item at the full price, but on the other hand you won’t be stuck with the stock after Christmas.

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SAVE

When you write: Tip #6 HERE’S another in our series of handy copywriting tips from Richard Bayan’s book “Words That Sell”.

6. Be specific. Don’t use hazy abstractions or approximations when you have a chance to create vivid images with simple, observable details. Would you rather eat a “frozen dessert” or a “raspberry ice cream”? And try to avoid the notorious “than what?” comparisons – for example, “lasts longer” (than what?) or “gets the job done faster” (than what?). Do everything you can to sharpen the picture.

The squirrels that stole Christmas THERE’S news from the USA this week that a pack of Grinchy squirrels at the Cincinnati Zoo is countering the staff’s holiday cheer by taking down their festive lights. Zoo spokesperson Chad Yelton said squirrels have been gnawing on the LED light strands put up by workers for the holiday season and the animals seem intent on keeping the facility’s Bear Hill from being bathed in festive illumination. The same thing happened last year when 300 strands were squirrelled away.

- Until next week, may your Christmas trading be bright, and keep up the great marketing!

KAT WEB

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DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

www.wit.tafensw.edu.au

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Building the with Phil Comerford, Scolari Comerford Dubbo foundations for culture and identity Misleading claims W a concern for small businesses hen we think of cities, we probably think first of celebrated landmarks – the Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty, Big Ben, the Hollywood sign and, of course, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

But something I learned this year was the implicit value and subtle virtue of well-executed urban planning.

Take Melbourne for example. There are height restrictions in certain areas surrounding the World Heritage listed Royal Exhibition Building (REB) to preserve views of the dome. When I walk from my house to either university or the CBD I can see the dome even though I am in the next suburb. I am gently reminded each time I see the Australian flag flying that I will be sitting exams in that building. A well planned city can have the beneficial effect of facilitating personal planning.

This example of planning is itself a support structure for the architectural marvel that is the dome. Domes are a prominent feature of Melbourne’s architecture, with Flinders St Station, the Supreme Court, the State Library of Victoria, and the dome of 333 Collins St all constructed this way. The architecture therefore links law and order, education and literature, transport, prosperity, and the historical initial Australian parliament house.

Additionally, looking along Swanston St you can see the Shrine of Remembrance straight down the line. The war memorial situated on a hill thus serves as an outpost, reminding us of the consequences of failed diplomacy particularly over the past century, and maintaining the memories of those who paid the price of death for humankind’s shortcomings with the resolution of political and ideological disagreement.

Combining domes, and the linearity of the war memorial and a major CBD street, Melbourne has architectural and land use plans similar to Canberra. The old and new Parliament houses line up over the lake with the arresting ochre of Anzac Parade, and the dome-roofed Australian War Memorial. Beneath the dome lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier – another gentle reminder that anyone could be in that tomb, even you.

Melbourne was Australia’s first seat of government, until the purposefully built political capital of Canberra assumed the role in 1927. The similiarities of the landmarks described offer an insight to the identity that post-1788 settlers held at the core. There is a sense of Messiah sacrifice to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier; that one man would sacrifice his life to give life to others.

The dome the tomb rests under links it with the domed buildings of Melbourne which are all buildings representing the foundational elements of a civilisation.

The Christian values inherent in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier then may

“ We shouldn’t view urban and rural locations as separate, but should consciously acknowledge and express the links shared.”

Comment by George Baker

Born and raised in the central west, George Baker is busy adding to his diverse skill base while he prepares to fly south of the border to pursue his interests in media and psychology at university.

be conferred on the central functional locations of Victoria’s capital.

Granted, these values need not be exclusionary – architecture encompasses an expansive history, with major influence stretching back to the Iron Age, when Mt Olympus was considered by some as the true worldwide seat of government. The dome originated in ancient Rome. Roman columns are used for great effect at the Supreme Court building, but a truly beautiful example of their usage is inside the Gothic Bank, one of the marvellous Melbourne buildings along Collins St that fortunately survived Whelan’s wrecking ball in the 1950s and 60s.

Inside the Gothic Bank there are columns that mimic eucalyptus trees. The very lower portion is painted brown, with the majority of the support structure painted a green typical of the abundant eucalyptus genus. The roof sees the columns branch out with florid ornament into an interconnected grid, just like the Hoddle grid of the city centre.

The individual squares display the traditional coat of arms of Victoria and NSW, and remind us that once this antipodean land primarily relied on wool, wheat, and whaling for subsistence and export.

I’ve selectively observed certain extant historical sites of two Australian cities, but I maintain that identity is tightly bound and translated into urban planning. Architectural display, and respect for the buildings subjected to conservation and vintage enhancement are just one aspect. What about cultures that didn’t rely on durable, stationary architecture made of wood, cement, brick, iron and steel? Many indigenous populations, especially those of Australia and North America, lived a lifestyle that didn’t require static housing; they were travellers with the atmosphere as their overarching dome.

So we are at a potential risk of flouting acknowledgement of indigenous Australians’ first settlement of this island continent. This is why it is so important for places such as the new Parliament House and Anzac Parade to display artistic and cultural elements of indigenous Australia. The Forecourt Mosaic, the ochre colour also presenting as blood, and artworks present in various Australian art galleries are crucial links within urban Australian centres to the wide, open ranges and flatlands of this country, and to the culture that first developed here.

It’s only now that I realise we shouldn’t view urban and rural locations as separate, but should consciously acknowledge and express the links shared. The same goes for cultures.

M

ISLEADING claims are an ongoing issue in the small business sector.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) regularly releases reports on the interests of small businesses. Misleading conduct and false representations continue to be the biggest small business issue, with over 1500 complaints received in the 2013–2014 financial year, followed by complaints about consumer guarantees (more than 900).

It is not just small businesses making misleading claims hurting other small businesses. The ACCC noted that when large businesses present their products as having a particular feature when they don’t, it can undermine the unique selling point that small businesses who do offer that feature depend on to compete.

 If a large business presents a product as having a feature that it doesn’t, this can harm small businesses... 

can harm small businesses,” ACCC Deputy Chair Dr Michael Schaper said.

The ACCC says it will continue to use a range of compliance and enforcement tools to encourage compliance. Focus areas for ACCC compliance for 2014 include the following: l emerging online trading issues; l complexity and unfairness in consumer or small business contracts; l conduct in concentrated markets which impacts on small business consumers or suppliers; l credence claims (such as organic and country of origin claims); and l consumer guarantees, particularly in relation to the sale of extended warranties.

The report, Small Business In Focus – 1 January 2014 to 30 June 2014, is available on the ACCC website. http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/small-business-in-focus/smallbusiness-in-focus-1-january-2014-to30-june-2014 Or use this QR code:

“Small businesses often rely on a unique selling point to compete. If a large business presents a product as having a feature that it doesn’t, this

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DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

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THE Write STUFF

For established and emerging local writers The Write Stuff is dedicated to helping both established and emerging local writers and poets explore and develop their literary art. Each week, Val Clark offers tidbits of interest and assistance based on her experiences as a consumer, blogger, teacher and practitioner of the wonderfully rewarding craft of writing.

I

From the bookshelves

by Dave Pankhurst The Book Connection, Dubbo

Leave room for character’s headspace

confess I’m not a Breaking Bad fan. Fact is, I’ve never even watched it. When this quote appeared on Facebook this week I knew it – the quote – was a keeper and Breaking Bad was worth a look, just for the script writing.

Breaking Bad writer and co-executive producer, Moira Walley-Beckett, said: “I learned so much from Vince Gilligan and his totally OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) process.

You go ‘round and ‘round and ‘round again on every single moment until it feels right. I think Breaking Bad reflects the attention to detail, the countless hours we spent asking the essential questions, “Where’s Walt’s head at? Where’s Jesse’s head at?

Where’s Skyler’s head at?” and letting the characters tell us what the story should be, as opposed to making any rushed or arbitrary decision just based on what could be a fun or cool idea.”

I’ve applied this quote to the lives of the characters I’m working with at the moment for my NaNoWriMo novel, Crossing Jordan, and I feel it’s really made a difference. (Yes, I know it was the name of a US detective show but, unlike many things in the arts world, titles are not subject to copyright.)

It hasn’t necessarily been easy thinking about what’s going on, really going on, in my characters’ heads, because they are not like me. Once I have a handle on that I’m able to get a handle on their emotions which then translates to dialogue and actions.

I haven’t had to invent scenarios like “what’s the worst thing that can happen now” in which the characters act and move forward; the action hasn’t come from me, it’s come from me letting the characters speak to me.

It’s a process that bypasses the rational brain processes and gets to what the subconscious is really trying to say in and through the story.

Pretty exciting and just a bit scary.

There’s nothing wrong with the “what’s the worst thing that can happen now” process of plotting a story, by the way. It just depends on where it sits in the process. It comes after the writer has grappled with what’s going on in the character’s head. Then the question can be asked: What’s the worst thing that can happen as a result of that mind space that will frustrate them reaching their goal?

The thing to watch with the “worst thing scenario” is that the scene you produce is credible and, to the reader, seems like a natural consequence

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of what has gone before in the story.

In a nutshell writing or editing here are some of the things you need to keep in mind: • What’s going on in my characters’ heads?

• How will that affect their emotions, actions and dialogue?

• What’s the next logical thing that will get in the way of them realising their goals?

• How does this scene, with its emotions, dialogue and actions, raise the stakes for each character or make it harder for characters to achieve their goals?

Writing, editing and then getting your work published or self-publishing is hard work. Not everyone succeeds, but you have to start with good writing—producing a good story that is well crafted. The library has lots of books to help you. Connect with other writers for peer evaluation.

Attend workshops and events aimed at developing your skills. Above all, write.

It’s exciting that two Dubbo writers will be launching books locally over the next few days. Come join in and celebrate their success.

What’s on for writers in Dubbo: • NaNoWriMo Write-Ins; Today (Saturday 29). Midnite Cafe, Pipe Band Hall. 7.30-12 midnight and Sunday, November 30 from 11am3pm. Library meeting room. Come and go as you are able.

• Dubbo children’s author, Pat Clarke will be launching her latest book Howie The Yowie at the Dubbo Branch of the Macquarie Regional Library today, (Saturday, November 29) at 1pm. This is another delightful book, again illustrated by Graeme Compton, that would make a great Christmas gift for the slightly older reader.

• Saturday, December 6: The Outback Writers’ Centre discussion meeting from 10am-1pm in the Conference room of the Dubbo branch of the Macquarie Libraries. Short AGM followed by announcement of the Boldrewood Award winners. Members give readings of their poetry and prose, fiction and non-fiction, discuss their work, share their interests in writing, give and receive encouragement; 300 word Challenge is Escape/ What is love. Light lunch to celebrate the end of a great year. Contact outbackwriters@gmail.com.

• Tuesday, December 9 - 5pm: Launch of Kerrie Phipps’ latest book, DO Talk to Strangers. Dubbo library.

Val Clark has published short stories, articles and poems in national and international magazines and anthologies, placed and won in writing competitions and written and directed plays for adults and students. She is passionate about creativity and encouraging new and emerging writers. Val regularly runs creative writing workshops for adults, teenagers and children.

The end of growth T HE expression ‘Drips Under Pressure’ may not be common these days but there was a time when it was applied to those making commercial or technical claims that might be challenged when there was little basis for justification.

The same qualities would appear to permeate the decision makers in politics and major businesses these days.

We read of bankers and big business manipulating their profits to minimise taxes, having off-shore companies, all satisfied to milk the nation and then avoid paying their dues. These activities persist in major countries, and those in so-called power have proven to be ineffective in terminating these corruptions.

Courtesy of the latest “New Philosopher” magazine, “The End of Growth” is a situation now been identified as an issue many of us have known for ages.

It raises the question, “Is progress a myth – will our modern notion of progress destroy all that sustains us?” It wouldn’t be the first time, with history being littered with the ruins of once powerful civilisations that refused to heed the warnings. It quotes John Steinbeck saying, “Why does progress look so much like destruction.”

Keane & Razer have written “A Short History of Stupid” with a sub-title “The decline of reason and why the public debate makes us want to scream.”

The Australian authors examine the deteriorating quality of our public debate, politics and culture.

They argue that the local world has lost its reason, and they explore “what’s behind the remorseless spread of ‘idiocity’ and why is there so much damn stupidity around us. Stupid isn’t just ignorance, it’s not just laziness; worse than absence of thought. Stupid is a virus that drains our productivity and leaves us sick and diminished.”

And we need to understand how to defeat it. The book slams those who have spread Stupid, and celebrates those few who have resisted. The publisher maintains that this book “will spark debate, sooth the terminally frustrated and outrage the righteously Stupid. It is a book whose Stupid time has come.”

On the American scene David Archibald provides a challenging issue in his book just published explaining why life in the 21st century will be nasty, brutish, and short. Entitled “Twilight of Abundance” it deals with energy shortages, food riots, nuclear wars, mass starvation, and the onset of the next Ice Age. Connected with the Institute of World Politics in Washington, Archibald begins with conceding that the second half of the 20th century was a period of unexampled prosperity.

But the good fortune cannot last.

Oil is running out. Millions of people worldwide now depend on grain imports for their daily survival and the agricultural outlook is deteriorating.

Of interest is that Archibald is a climate researcher who doesn’t hold with

global warming and predicts a mini ice age instead. A rare comment in print he makes is, “Chinese are stocking up on foodstuffs while our politicians fritter away their time on the non-problem of global warming. If we want to keep our place as a superpower – we had better start preparing ourselves.”

Jack Wheeler was the author of US President Reagan’s strategy to break the back of the Soviet Union. For years he wrote a weekly intelligence report. In July this year he released a resume of “Barack Hussein Obama: An eloquently tailored empty suit. No resume, no accomplishments, no experience, no original ideas, no understanding how the economy works, no balls, nothing but abstract empty rhetoric devoid of real substance.” The author contends that even though Obama is heralded as America’s first black president, he hasn’t a single ancestor who was a slave. Instead his Arab ancestors were Arab slave owners, with a Kenyan grandmother making a part connection. It is interesting what the propaganda machine can do.

Last weekend’s press featured the problem of a dramatic increase in Ice usage by teenagers. Turn the page and a former Attorney-General was supporting the rejection in state parliament of the compulsory sentencing Act citing that our prisons are so full now. Statistics are not the measure of circumstances.

To accept that the number of those confined is high, is similar to observing that a new supermarket has attracted an increase in shoppers. If they aren’t there long enough to learn behaviour correction or to buy sufficient groceries, the purpose is not served.

No longer do inmates work in vegetable gardens or make car number plates.

The transition to today’s penalty is a measure of stupidity, not statistics.

Just published is a book from Tim Fischer – “Maestro John Monash” – which analyses the contribution of the Jewish immigrant’s son who surmounted prejudice and earned respect from his military peers as well as his sovereign. The book reveals the brilliance in a human mind which not only provides strategies that achieve greatness both on the battlefield and in politics, but meets the challenges of lesser minds and prevails. Where is this level of thinking revealed in the world today?

A new book by Boris Johnson is “The Churchill Factor” and it will be launched on the eve of the 50th anniversary of Winston Churchill’s death.

The author explores what makes up the Churchill Factor, the singular brilliance of one of the most important leaders of the 20th century.

He was a man of multiple contradictions. Contagious bravery, breath-taking eloquence, matchless strategizing and deep humanity.

We need someone with those credentials now to reverse our “end of growth”.

Enjoy your browsing, Dave Pankhurst

DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

27

PEOPLE

WEEKENDER DIARY hear ll Christmas concert GET into the Christmas spirit with the awardwinning Dubbo District Concert Band as they put on a Christmas Variety Concert for everyone.

Head down to the Dubbo RSL Auditorium on Sunday, December, 14, for an afternoon of Christmas cheer that HSDE guarantees will have you tapping your feet. Tickets are available at the door; doors open at 1.30pm for the magical music to begin at 2pm. ll Harmony Singers in the chapel THIS is the kind of performance that doesn’t

come around very often so should not be missed.

Dubbo’s own Harmony Singers are all set for their upcoming concert at St Andrew’s Chapel at 3pm on Sunday, November 30.

The singers are renowned for their magnificent voices and vocal harmonies, which should sound even more amazing combined with the acoustics in the chapel.

So for a wonderful Sunday afternoon experience, head along for a summer’s eve performance and stay for drinks and nibbles with the choir afterwards.

see

Talking to...

Billie Devoe This Spanish-speaking, Minecraft-loving university student has a unique perspective on life. Despite an unfortunate past, Billie Devoe is making a place for herself in this world. She’s selfless, and she touches the hearts of all those she meets . AS TOLD TO Kaitlyn Rennie On my bedside table at the moment is... a big cardboard Enderman head I made for Halloween, but never had the guts to wear.

Life has taught me that when it comes to the opposite sex... loneliness is nicer than rejection.

My top five albums of all time are: Blink 182 – Dude Ranch; They Might be Giants – Here Comes Science; Odds – Neopolitan; Chilliwack – Wanna Be a Star; Shadowy Men on a Shadowy Planet – Savvy Show Stoppers.

If I had to name my five best loved movies they would be: Falling Down, Sideways, The China Syndrome, Interstate 60, Mary and Max. I draw inspiration from... videogames and books, especially John Steinbeck.

I believe... if we legalised

marijuana we would bankrupt a lot of organised crime, and that political correctness makes racism worse because it singles people out and says they’re different, so we should treat them differently.

I don’t believe... that suffering is a part of the human experience.

The one thing that will always make me cry is... the way the North Korean government has treated its people.

I always laugh when... I see myself naked (because of my tattoos).

I’ll never forget... anything, and it’s a curse!

What I know now that I wish I’d known sooner is... extroverts can be insecure, and introverts can be self-confident.

I never thought I’d... be in university.

ll A Midwife Crisis AN enthusiastic group of 26 local children aged between seven and 12 are busy with the final rehearsals of a quirky Christmas musical, A Midwife Crisis, to be staged at Macquarie Conservatorium this weekend. Don’t miss the second production from the Con’s new Youth Music Theatre Program, tickets are selling fast. A Midwife Crisis will have two performances, on Sunday, November 30 at 3pm and Monday, December 1at 6pm. Visit www.macqcon.org.au for more information and bookings. ll Contemporary Ceramics HYPERCLAY: Contemporary Ceramics profiles

eight Australian artists whose current practice is taking ceramics into bold new territories.

Whether printing with clay, transforming rejected ceramic objects or playing at the intersection of the digital and the handmade, the artists in HYPERCLAY are forging new pathways in Australian ceramics.

HYPERCLAY also features extensive digital content, with 30 short videos providing greater audience engagement with the works. The exhibition, on display at Western Plains Cultural Centre until February 1, highlights the versatility of this time-honoured material and in, doing so, reimagines its possibilities.

do ll Carols by candlelight IT’S that time of year for Christmas song and cheer! Come along and sing your hearts out at Victoria Park No1 Oval on December 21 for the Dubbo Carols by Candlelight. Local artists and bands will lead the community in song and entertain everyone with Christmas carols. Santa Claus will also be making an appearance at 8.30pm. Gates open at 6pm. Other entertainment includes Trike Adventures in support of the children’s ward at Dubbo Base Hospital. For more information contact Malcolm Cockrum on 0407 710 454 or email malclyn@tpg.com.au

ll Fishing Classic CALLING all anglers! Register now for the annual RiverSmart Macquarie River Fishing Classic on December 6 and 7. There will be a catch and release competition for Murray cod and yellowbelly, a carp muster and river clean-up as well as the Cod of Origin Challenge from Burrendong to the Barwon. All entries will go in the draw for a tinnie, trailer and outboard package. Enter at www.riversmart.org.au or at one of the participating venues. In Dubbo, head to the Garden Hotel or Orana Mutual.

etc ll NYE Fireworks IT’S not too early to start planning your New Year’s Eve celebrations. In Dubbo this year, there will be fireworks for the first time in many years.

The action will take place at Caltex Park on December 31. Gates open from 5pm with a gold coin donation, with the fireworks to get underway at 9pm. The evening will be a family-friendly, alcohol-free event with plenty of entertainment such as market stalls and a mini-carnival.

No glass or alcohol is permitted and bags will be checked upon entry. For more information, contact Dubbo Fireworks Inc on 0437 847 263 or

visit www.dubbofireworks.com.au ll Tour on home turf The Home Ground Cricket Tour is coming to Dubbo and will be held at Victoria Park No 1 and 2 ovals on Tuesday, December 2, from 11:00am – 8:00pm. The tour is staged in the lead-up to the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, the world’s biggest sporting event. Cricket NSW will be running hands-on cricket activities as well as giving those who attend the chance to view pieces from the famous Bradman Museum.

For more information, visit www.sydney.com/ homegroundtour

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Presenting their very own unique interpretation of this classic Shakespearian romantic comedy.

With everything from Dukes to donkeys, fairies to fools, this show will thrill everyone with its magical layers of humour, language and of course extraordinary dancing!

A musical concert based on the famed Memphis-based record company that launched the careers of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Roy Orbison. It combines live music and hilarious dialogue about the birth of Rock ‘n Roll in the 1950s.

Mermaids, unicorns and fairies will frolic, enchanted gardens will come alive, the deep seas will glisten and a carnival will come to life. Our talented cast ranges from ages 2 – 18 years and showcases Stepping Out’s spectacular year of dance.

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

28

THE SUN RECORDS ALL STARS

DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

IMAGINE

A facility of Dubbo City Council.

GETTING SOCIAL

Public debate well-attended

By KAITLYN RENNIE A good night was had by all who attended the Weekender’s Big Talk on Friday, October 31.

The night included a debate between local residents as to whether or not “Public opinion is a Thug”. The audience enjoyed a three-course meal while listening to the interesting debate.

Terry and Liz Mazzer

Peter, Libby and Nicky Bryant with Terry Korn

Virginia Barlow, Adele Dulton, Ros Walters, Meryl Usback, Sue Lister

Belinda Nugent, Kim Goldsmith, Peter Aland, Vicki Aland, Jude Morrell

Gargi Ganguly, Jen Cowley and Glenys Mulholland

The Team Weekender speakers: Steve Cowley, James Eddy and Tony Webber

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PUZZLES & PLAY FIND THE WORDS

WEEKENDER SUPER CROSSWORD

This is a theme puzzle with the subject stated below. Find the listed words in the grid. (They may run in any direction but always in a straight line. Some letters are used more than once.) Ring each word as you find it and when you have completed the puzzle, there will be 16 letters left over.

They spell out the alternative theme of the puzzle.

Globetrotting

Alaska America Atlantic Australia Bahamas Burma Canada Chile China Crete Cuba

Devon Fiji Ghana Greece India Italy Jamaica Kenya Kuwait Laos Libya

Lima Malta Mexico Nepal New York Niger Oamaru Oman Onslow Perth Philippines

Queensland Rome Russia Spain Taiwan Timor Togo Uganda Victoria Vienna

© australianwordgames.com.au 831 n Solution at bottom

WEEKENDER SUDOKU Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each small 9-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.

ACROSS 1. Disparage 9. Nassau’s nation 16. Spot’s pal 20. Old gas giant 21. Acre native 22. Mac OS X is based on it 23. Lucy’s hubby creates a portrait of an Egyptian Nobelist?

25. Sitar master Shankar 26. Doesn’t split 27. First-time Net surfer 28. Classic cookie 30. Enshrouded 31. Singer Cline dupes singer Ross?

36. One in a tippy boat 41. Grin widely 42. Baker’s – 43. Spaghetti that smells and tastes terrible?

50. Aviary abode 51. Company with a spokesduck 52. Big name in champagne 53. “Faust” playwright 55. Like a sureto-succeed proposition 57. Impart fizz to 58. “Drop – line sometime” 61. Slightly 64. Declaration from one who abducts alley prowlers?

68. Food-conducting plant tissue 70. Author Levin

71. Third note in the A major scale 72. Soreness causes shaggy ox to lose focus?

79. Iowa city 80. Use a rocker 81. Foetus holder 82. Brother of Gretel 84. Eugene O’Neill’s “The – Cometh” 85. Like quilts 86. Gravitates 90. Additionally 93. Salsa can

be found on the platter of munchies?

97. Sonnet writers, say 99. “99 Luftballons” band 100. Valuables 101. Model Banks opts not to take Tums?

108. Slap handcuffs on 109. Pop’s mama 110. River in Russia 111. “- bleu!”

(French “Holy cow!”)

116. Kazan with three Tonys 118. Observance “shuffled” in this puzzle 123. Put a fork in 124. Provider of funds 125. Dog flea, e.g.

126. Match up, as timepieces 127. Like grasslands 128. Some small pooches DOWN 1. Gin mills 2. Release 3. “Livin’ La

This week’s theme: IRISH SHUFFLE

Vida –” 4. Totally gross 5. Playthings 6. Highest-rated 7. Tropical vine 8. Author T.S. 9. Gradually 10. Talking biblical beast 11. Wk.’s 168 12. Org. aiding stranded motorists 13. French red wine 14. Happy as – 15. Locales 16. Dog covering 17. Befuddled

18. Discovers intuitively 19. It causes rust 24. Thumbsdown votes 29. Like 1 or 3 31. Nose around 32. Koppel of news 33. Jail sentence 34. Mental pictures 35. Skye of film 36. Civil War org.

37. Anti-moonshine org.

38. Naught 39. Ad infinitum 40. Kitchen

62. Asian cuisine 63. Came to rest 65. Vardalos and Long 66. Bit of a circle 67. Huts in the Swiss Alps 69. Concern of a PTA: Abbr.

73. Big hauler 74. Web, to a fly 75. Altercations 76. “– Leaving Home” 77. Exhibit ennui 78. Court star Kournikova 83. Deer kin 84. Greek vowel 85. Collection of busts, e.g.

87. “Is” pluralized 88. Turner of a rebellion 89. Part of MSDOS: Abbr.

90. Suitability 91. Allegiance 92. Certain Slav 94. Mermaid site 95. “Maisie” film star Sothern 96. Ill-bred dude 98. Tax form ID 102. DJ Casey 103. Asinine utensil brand 104. – visit 44. Berserk (dropped by) 45. Mozart’s “105. Mastery Fan Tutte” 46. Marsh plant 106. Grouses 47. Categorize 107. Near the hip 48. Rend 111. Game with 49. Assails 32 cards 54. Attention112. Admin. aide getting calls 113. Roman 402 56. Restricted 114. $5/hour, e.g.

57. Give – on the 115. Glimpses back 58. What to call 117. “7.30 Report” airer a lady 119. Doze (off) 59. French I 120. One and verb one 60. Nile biters 61. Downloads 121. Basilica seat for iPhones 122. – Magnon

Tip: This is an international crossword. To add an extra challenge it occasionally uses the US spelling for answers. 1117 n Solution next week

GO FIGURE

>> AXYDLBAAXR is LONGFELLOW: One letter stands for another. In this sample, A is used for the three Ls, X for the two Os, etc. Single letters, apostrophes, the length and formation of the words are all hints. Each week the code letters are different.

1117 n Solution next week

TRIVIA TIME 1. MEASUREMENTS: What does a quadricentennial represent?

2. MEDICINE: Which vitamin is essential in blood clotting?

3. POP SONGS: Who released “Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves”?

4. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: Which one of the seven dwarfs in the 1937 film “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” did not have a beard?

5. LYRICS: Name the song that contains this lyric: “Tell me does she kiss like I used

to kiss you? Does it feel the same when she calls your name? Somewhere deep inside you must know I miss you, but what can I say, rules must be obeyed.”

6. ANIMAL KINGDOM: How many limbs does a squid have?

7. LITERATURE: What is the name of the boy raised by wolves in Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book”?

8. GAMES: What is known as skeet?

9. MOVIES: How many roles did Peter Sellers play in the movie “Dr. Strangelove”?

10. FOOD AND DRINK: Which young French wine is released annually on the third Thursday in November? n Answers next page

1117 n Solution next week

OUT ON A LIMB

PHOTO: DISNEY

30

DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

>> The idea of Go Figure is to arrive at the figures given at the bottom and right-hand columns of the diagram by following the arithmetic signs in the order they are given (that is, from left to right and top to bottom). Use only the numbers below the diagram to complete its blank squares and use each of the nine numbers only once.

1117 n Solution next week

by Gary Kopervas

Except where otherwise noted, all Puzzles&Play material © 2014 King Features Syndicate

CRYPTO-QUOTE

PUZZLES & PLAY THE WEEK AHEAD ARIES



week commencing 1.12.2014 LIBRA



Mar 21-apr 19 There could be an unexpected change in plans for your upcoming holiday travels. But keep in mind that a little flexibility goes a long way in resolving any disappointments.

Sep 23-Oct 22 A family member’s actions continue to surprise you, but this time with positive results. Could be your wise counsel finally got through. It’s like having an early holiday gift, isn’t it?

TAURUS

SCORPIO





apr 20-May 20 A new relationship might not be responding quite as quickly as you’d hoped. Could you be expecting too much too soon? Try to ease up and let things happen at their own pace.

Oct 23-nOv 21 Your reluctance to act in a current situation could be traced to your inner self advising you to take more time to study its complexities before you attempt to deal with it. Good luck.

GEMINI

SAGITTARIUS



May 21-Jun 20 As we approach the frenetic pace of pre-holiday planning, take time out now to reconnect with the wonderful people who share your life, especially the one who also shares your dreams.

CANCER





nOv 22-Dec 21 Soothing hurt feelings before they can ignite an angry outburst is the wise thing to do. And, of course, when it comes to doing the “wisdom thing”, you do it so well.

CAPRICORN



Jun 21-Jul 22 A misunderstanding should be resolved before you get caught up in the flurry of holiday preparations. Set your pride aside and deal with it, regardless of who might have hurt whom first.

Dec 22-Jan 19 Budget your time so that you can handle both your workplace duties and your personal holiday planning – including travel arrangements – without burning out on either end.

LEO

AQUARIUS



Jul 23-aug 22 Being told that a colleague might have been trying to undercut your effectiveness might or might not be true. Get all the facts before you even think about acting on this so-called information.

VIRGO



aug 23-Sep 22 It’s a good idea to start your holiday preparation plans early in order to avoid a time crunch if an unresolved workplace situation causes a problem. That old friend might have some welcome news.



Jan 20-Feb 18 You might find that you still need to firm up one or two of those still-outstanding decisions so that you finally can move forward as you had planned. Weigh the facts, then act.

PISCES



Feb 19-Mar 20 You usually don’t carry grudges, but you might feel this is one time when you’re justified in doing so.

But aren’t you spending too much energy holding onto it? Let it go and move on.

BORN THIS WEEK: You have a way of using your quiet strength to persuade people to follow their better instincts and do the right thing.

Be creative in applying your forecast to the actual circumstances of your life. For entertainment purposes only.

THE ANSWERS & SOLUTIONS Last week’s Super Crossword 1110

Last week’s Go Figure 1110

OPEN WEEKENDER COFFEE & MEALS MAGNOLIA CAFE

SPORTIES

• Warm up and enjoy a steaming hot drink with; Breakfast, lunch, morning or afternoon tea • Delicious variety of gluten free options • Relaxing, Friendly atmosphere • Open 7 days 9-4 • Take away available

• Open Saturday and Sunday from 9am • Restaurant open from 11.45am2pm and 5.45-9pm.

73 Wheelers Lane, 6884 5997

OLD BANK RESTAURANT • Open Saturday 12 til late • Good food • Good music • Good times • $12 lunch specials

232 Macquarie Street, 6884 7728

TED’S TAKEAWAY • Open Saturday and Sunday 8.30am-8pm • The big value in takeaway food.

• Great weekly specials.

26 Victoria St, 6882 7899

VILLAGE BAKERY CAFE • Open Saturday and Sunday 6am to 5.30pm.

• Gourmet pies • Mouth-watering cakes • Delicious pastries • Gourmet French garden salad baguettes and salads.

• Perfect breakfast and brunch • Morning tea • Lunch • Afternoon tea

113 Darling Street (adjacent to the railway crossing), 6884 5454

CLUBS & PUBS PASTORAL HOTEL • Open Saturday 10am to 4am, Sunday 10am to 9pm.

• Restaurant open for lunch and dinner.

• All desserts home made.

• Open Saturday and Sunday for balcony breakfast’s from 8am - 11.30am • Serving Bill’s Beans Coffee

Birch Avenue, 6884 1955

GYMS

81 Macquarie St, 6882 3533

COMMERCIAL HOTEL • Restaurant open 12-2pm and 6-9pm • Free function room hire • Huge beer garden • Kids playground • Large screen broadcasting all major sporting events

161 Brisbane Street, 6882 4488

• Open Saturday 9am til 12 noon • Giftware • Jewellery • Homewares

59A Boundary Road, 6882 3723

THE ATHLETES FOOT • Open Saturday 9am til 2pm • Everything you need for the perfect fit for your foot

176 Macquarie Street, 6881 8400

GROCERIES CARLO’S IGA SOUTH DUBBO

95 Tamworth St, 6882 2029

Cnr Brisbane and Wingewarra Streets, 6884 1777

SHOPPING

• Saturday 7am-8pm • Sunday 8am-8am • Weekly specials, friendly service, • delicatessen, fruit and vegetables, grocery items

DMC MEAT AND SEAFOOD • Open Saturday 6am to 3pm • Huge variety, bulk buys and red hot specials weekly.

DUBBO ANTIQUE & COLLECTABLES

55 Wheelers Lane, 6882 1504

• Open Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 3pm • Antique furniture, china, cast iron, old tools and collectables.

• Open Saturday and Sunday 7.30am to 6pm.

• Great weekly specials and friendly service.

4 Depot Road, 6885 4400

THE BOOK CONNECTION • Open Saturday 8.30am to 4pm.

• Sunday 10am to 2pm.

• New and used books • Over 60,000 books in store.

178 Macquarie St, 6882 3311

QUINN’S MYALL ST NEWSAGENCY • Saturday and Sunday from 5am- 1pm.

• Newspapers, magazines, stationery supplies.

29 Talbragar St, 6882 9528

• Open Saturday and Sunday from 10am • Bistro specials everyday for lunch and dinner • Night club

DUBBO GROVE PHARMACY

• Open Saturday 7.30am-5pm • Open Sunday 8.30am-3pm • Gym • Indoor pool • Sauna • Steam room • Squash courts

• Open Saturday 8am to 1am Sunday 8am to 10pm.

• Quality entertainment, blackboard specials in the bistro.

AMAROO

SHOPPING

RSL AQUATIC & HEALTH CLUB

THE SWISH GALLERY

Whylandra St, 6884 2396

This week’s TRIVIA TIME answers: 1. A celebration marking 400 years. 2. Vitamin K. 3. Cher, in 1971. The original title was “Gypsys, Tramps and White Trash” until cooler heads prevailed. 4. Dopey 5. “The Winner Takes It All,” by ABBA in 1980. 6. 10 7. Mowgli 8. Skeet is one of the three major disciplines of competitive clay pigeon shooting 9. Three 10. Beaujolais nouveau

• Open 10am-1pm on Saturday and 10am-10pm on Sunday • Restaurant open 12-3pm and 6-9pm

DUBBO RSL CLUB RESORT

• Open Saturday and Sunday from 9am.

• Riverview Bistro 12pm to 2pm and 6pm to 9pm.

• Relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Last week’s Crypto-Quote 1110

MACQAURIE INN

272 Myall St, 6882 0688

CLUB DUBBO

This week’s Find the Words solution 831 In the jet set crowd

101 - 103 Erskine Street, 6884 2044

110 Talbragar St, 6882 4219

Cnr Brisbane and Wingewarra Streets, 6882 4411

Last week’s Sudoku 1110

CLUBS & PUBS

• Open Saturday 9am to 12pm.

• Distinctive jewellery, creative contemporary decor for your home and stylish gifts.

BRENNAN’S MITRE 10 • For all your DIY projects, hardware, tools and garden products • See us in store for great specials • Saturday 8am-4pm • Sunday 9am-4pm

IGA WEST DUBBO

38-40 Victoria Street, 6882 3466

THINGS TO DO MAGNOLIA MARKETS • Sunday, October 30, 10am-1.30pm • Showcasing local products • Beautiful variety of stalls • Check out the nursery and gift shop • Enjoy a meal or coffee at Magnolia Cafe

73 Wheelers Lane, 6884 5997

WESTERN PLAINS CULTURAL CENTRE • One of the largest galleries and museums in NSW • An ever-changing array of exhibitions and events including top national exhibitions.

76 Wingewarra Street, 6801 4444

OLD DUBBO GAOL • Open Saturday and Sunday 9-5pm • Large display of animatronics and holographs providing a realistic insight into a bygone era of prison life.

64-70 Macquarie Street, 6882 6133

90 Macquarie Street, near the old clock tower, 6801 4460

ORANA MALL SHOPPING CENTRE

TARONGA WESTERN PLAINS ZOO

• 52 Specialty Stores, Big W, Woolworths and Bernardi’s SUPA IGA. • Easy Parking, now also with approx. 160 undercover.

• Food Court • Saturday 9.00am – 5.00pm • Sunday 10.00am – 4.00pm • www.oranamall.com.au

Cnr Mitchell Highway & Wheelers Lane, 6882 7766

MAGNOLIA NURSERY • Open Sunday, 9am til 4pm • Quality plants • Garden decor • Giftware

• Open Saturday and Sunday 9-4pm.

• The zoo’s encounters and shows offer visitors truly special experiences with their favourite animals.

Obley Road, off the Newell Hwy, 6881 1400

TRIKE ADVENTURES • Book a ride Saturday or Sunday • Available for town tours, special occassions, outback pub lunches or just blasting along with the wind in your face

1300 TRIKES (1300 87 45 37)

73 Wheelers Lane, 6882 25

TO HAVE YOUR BUSINESS FEATURED HERE, CALL 6885 4433 DUBBO WEEKENDER The Dubbo Photo News Weekend News Magazine 29.11.2014

31

ART, ACTIVITIES AND READING FOR YOUNG PEOPLE I CAN DRAW JUST $8.95 each

PENCIL, PAPER, DRAW SERIES JUST $9.95

PEOPLE IN HISTORY JUST $14.95 each

CARTOONING FOR KIDS JUST $12.95

DRAWING LAB

Book and art drawing kit

JUST $24.95

SKETCH BOOK

128 pages 18x25 cm for dry media & light washes.

$14.95

PRINT & STAMP

Jumbo CHRISTMAS ORIGAMI

JUST $24.95

$19.95

Book and Creative Art Kit

Paper Pack

SKETCH BOOK

THE ART JOURNAL

$9.95

$17.95

128 pages 14x20 cm for dry media & light washes

68 pages 22x28 cm for dry media & light washes

The Book Connection 178 Macquarie Street, Dubbo • (02) 6882 3311 • OPEN 7 DAYS