thursday 5 february 2026 SOPHIE’S BALL SHINES LIGHT ON VETERINARY SUICIDE CRISIS
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by GEORGIA CURRY
There’s a carnivorous duck called Ripper at Tidbinbilla’s Sanctuary (which ducklings avoid lest they become lunch), and now Ripper’s officially the world’s oldest musk duck.
At 27, he’s a fine specimen of Australia’s largest duck (and our only duck that’s a carnivore), and he’s also the Sanctuary’s last survivor of the 2003 bushfires.
ACT Parks ranger Scott Ryan described Ripper as a “submarine”, attacking from beneath, grabbing unsuspecting ducklings, drowning them, beating them up and swallowing them whole.
“It’s just another one of those endearing features of why we love musk ducks,” Scott said. “The ducks have sort of cottoned on to avoid Ripper these days”.
While Ripper might be enjoying newfound fame as the world’s oldest musk duck (they normally live for about 20 years), his dad was famous for his potty mouth.
Ripper senior could mimic human voices and a researcher recorded him repeatedly saying “you bloody fool” more than three decades ago (the first documented instance of ducks being able to mimic sounds).
Ripper senior’s foul language (pun intended) could be heard during aggressive mating displays – quite the lady’s man. He was also adept at mimicking the sound of doors closing.
Sadly, Ripper senior perished in the 2003 bushfires and with him, the Sanctuary’s musk
duck breeding program (Tidbinbilla was one of the few places in the world that was able to breed musk ducks successfully).
Ripper’s son, “little Ripper”, is not much of a talker though, more the silent broody type.
He spends his time in captivity at the Sanctuary dining on fish, baby turtles, frogs, yabbies, molluscs and the occasional unlucky duckling.
Very few conservation facilities have kept musk ducks long-term, so this secondgeneration Ripper is invaluable to research.
“Little Ripper flaps his wings and blows his whistle and squirts water because that’s part of their courtship display,” Scott said. “So in the middle of summer he’s busy doing his little courtship display and then just foraging around and harassing the other ducks. No girls have
landed in here yet.”
If Ripper sounds a little intimidating, you’re safe on dry land because he’s not the most athletic bird out of water.
“They are a diving duck and they spend most of their time in the water,” Scott said. “They’re really clumsy on land because of the way they’re shaped. Their legs stick out the back as opposed to underneath them, so when they do try and walk on land they sort of slide along like the hull of a boat. They‘re really awkward.”
Happy birthday, you little Ripper.
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is open daily from 7:30am to 8pm during daylight saving time. The Sanctuary is a large wetlands ecosystem surrounded by bushland that has been protected by a predator-proof fence for about 40 years, creating a refuge for native animals.
As the Canberra summer reaches its peak, a distinct shade of purple is beginning to colour the capital’s landscape. On Sunday 22 February, the shores of Lake Burley Gri n will transform into a sea of purple as Team Goodwin gathers for the Dementia Australia Memory Walk & Jog.
For the second consecutive year, Goodwin Aged Care Services has stepped up as the ACT State Sponsor, leading a community-wide charge with a monumental fundraising target of $100,000. This ambitious goal follows a record-breaking 2025 campaign that saw over 300 participants under the Team Goodwin banner raise more than $63,000, establishing Goodwin as a dominant force in the region’s philanthropic e orts for dementia research and support services.
“For Goodwin, this campaign is far more than a fundraiser; it is a profound declaration of our core values. Dementia remains one of the most significant health challenges facing older Australians and is now tragically recognised as the leading cause of death in the country,” says Stephen Holmes, Goodwin CEO.
“In the ACT alone, an estimated 6,100 people are currently living with the disease, a figure that highlights the urgent need for the increased awareness and
funding that Team Goodwin’s fundraising e orts for Dementia Australia provide.”
The engine driving Team Goodwin’s massive fundraising e ort this year is again their unique “Suburb Showdown”, which they launched in 2025. It’s a friendly but spirited competition that pits various Goodwin locations and suburbs across Canberra and Batemans Bay against one another on a digital leaderboard.
“By giving everyone a local team to get behind, the Suburb Showdown has turned a serious cause into a spirited neighbourhood rivalry between the di erent Goodwin villages. Whether it’s the Goodwin team at Ainslie, Batemans Bay, Crace, Downer, Farrer, Fisher, Monash, or Queanbeyan, or our Home Care community, each team is racing to the top of the leaderboard, transforming a shared mission for our residents, clients and sta into a point of local pride & purpose,” says Elna Jennings, General Manager, Marketing & Communications at Goodwin.
“It’s been great to also see the momentum of our campaign reaching local businesses, clubs, and cafes that have stepped up as ‘Community Champions’ or ‘Outpacers’ for Team Goodwin.”
With the Suburb Showdown, Team Goodwin has created a Canberra-wide movement where every suburb has a stake in the finish line, and more importantly, supports the call to action to “outpace dementia”.
Among these local champions is Peter Barclay, the well-known owner of King O’Malley’s pub. His connection to the cause is deeply personal, as his mother, Dorothy, is a resident at Goodwin House’s Memory Support Unit in Ainslie. Peter speaks with heartfelt gratitude about the “homey” environment his mother enjoys, often noting that the care is so welcoming he finds it hard to leave after a visit. “As a family, we support this cause wholeheartedly,” Mr Barclay says. “If you’ve walked in these shoes before, no doubt you want to lace up and walk for change”.
Goodwin’s 2026 campaign has also introduced a powerful new intergenerational element: the Team Goodwin Schools Challenge. By pairing local schools with their neighbourhood Goodwin teams, the Schools Challenge is opening the door to vital conversations between young and old. The initiative gives students a meaningful way to understand what is happening when their ‘nans and pops’ begin to lose their memories, turning a di cult topic into a lesson on empathy. These intergenerational friendships are key to removing the stigma around dementia, proving that you’re never too young to make a di erence.
Seven-year-old Lia Casao from a local primary school is an enthusiastic ambassador for the Team Goodwin Schools Challenge. She has a simple message for the city: “I want everyone to come walk with me and Goodwin. We are walking together for our nans and pops, because we don’t want them to
forget our names.” Lia’s mum, Gail, is a Goodwin Home Care Support Worker. They proudly represented Team Goodwin last year and are ready to walk side-by-side with the community again at this year’s event.
Goodwin’s commitment to this cause is mirrored in the clinical excellence provided within its facilities. The organisation’s approach is guided by a “villageof-care” philosophy, recognising that a holistic, supportive network is essential for those navigating a dementia diagnosis.
This clinical expertise is most visible within Goodwin’s specialised Memory Support Units (MSUs) at Ainslie, Farrer, and Batemans Bay, all of which serve as regional benchmarks for dementia care. World-class dementia support, informed by rigorous environmental audits and national design principles, Goodwin’s MSUs are designed around o ering familiar, homelike spaces that prioritise the comfort, safety, and dignity of every individual. Plans are currently well underway to also expand this service to Monash, with a 13-bed Memory Support Unit in Goodwin’s Residential Care Home, David Harper House.
Teddy Morados, the Director of Nursing at Goodwin House Ainslie and a 2026 Team Goodwin Campaign Ambassador, sees the Memory Walk & Jog as a natural extension of his daily work. “Every day, I see the power of movement and connection in improving the lives of our residents,” Mr Morados explains. “This walk is physical proof of our commitment. We are not just walking for research; we are walking to show every family facing this disease that they are not alone”.
The business community has also rallied behind Team Goodwin with unprecedented force. Guide Healthcare has signed on as the exclusive Platinum Partner for the next three years. Beyond financial backing, Guide Healthcare will host a “Recovery Zone” at the event, where their team will o er light recovery massages for the weary feet and legs of participants, as well as cognitive games and tips. Simon Kerrigan, Managing Director of Guide Healthcare, notes that the partnership is a perfect alignment of purpose. “We believe that physical movement and community connection are vital, especially for those navigating the challenges of dementia,” Mr Kerrigan states.
Further corporate support comes from a roster of local leaders, including Higgins Paint, Manteena Group, Dowse Projects, Schindler Lifts, and MBS FM. Cassandra Keller, head of CK Architecture, is leading the charge as a Corporate supporter for Team Monash and has issued a direct challenge to her peers in the business sector. “We are proud to support an initiative that places the dignity of older Australians at the centre of care,” says Ms Keller. “I’m challenging all local Canberra businesses to get behind one of the Goodwin teams and see what we can achieve together.”
Erik Boddeus, Goodwin’s Executive Manager, Retirement Living, Property and Development, and the “Corporate & Friends” ambassador for Team Goodwin, emphasises that this event is critical for fostering a broader community village. He believes that when corporate partners, sta , residents, families and local leaders walk side-by-side, it creates a powerful support system that extends far beyond a single day.
The momentum toward race day will build significantly on 12 February, when all Goodwin sites host simultaneous “Practice Walks”. These warm-up events will see residents, sta , and clients joined by local MPs, o ering a chance for community members to engage directly with their representatives in a relaxed, purple-clad setting. These walks serve as a final fundraising sprint and a way to build palpable excitement for the main event.
On the day of the walk, the atmosphere at Stage 88 will be one of celebration and solidarity. Goodwin will also host a community sausage sizzle, generously sponsored by Alpha Fresh Foods, BIDFOOD, CocaCola, and PFD Food Services, which will keep energy levels high and hungry tummies full. Team Goodwin participants will also have the chance to win a range of prizes for top fundraising e orts, with sponsorships from Higgins Paint, Belgravia Leisure, NextGen, Novotel Canberra, Mercure Hotel Canberra, and King O’Malley’s.
The spirit of the campaign also reaches the coast. While there is no o cial Dementia Australia event in Batemans Bay, Goodwin’s teams at The Manor and The Glen will host a DIY Memory Walk & Jog on the same day. Starting at The Manor, the event will also conclude with a community sausage sizzle. Canberrans spending their weekend at the coast or local friends & family are warmly invited to join Team Goodwin Batemans Bay.
Goodwin CEO Stephen Holmes remains steadfast in his commitment to the mission. “We’re proud to lead the charge again in 2026, bringing our community together to raise vital funds and awareness. Every step we take is a step towards better care, more research, and hope for families facing this disease. Whether you choose to walk, run, or donate, every contribution brings Canberra (and Australia) one step closer to outpacing dementia,” he concludes.
To join a team, sponsor a walker, or learn more about the Team Goodwin campaign, scan the QR code or visit goodwin.org.au/mwj26
I was listening to an interesting report on Monday about controversial comments the Federal Race Discrimination Commissioner had made about Australia Day on SBS.
I actually applied for that job when I was at the AAT in 2018 and was pleased to be interviewed. I was also pleased to see Victorian lawyer Chin Tan (of Chinese-Australian background) appointed to the role over me. He was highly impressive. He said the role of the Human Rights Commissioner is not meant to divide communities, but to strengthen them, and not to simply echo what politicians say.
Unlike Mr Tan, the current commissioner, Giridharan Sivaraman, a Queensland lawyer who has done some good work in anti-discrimination law and came to Australia from India as a young child, seems to get heavily involved in what I feel are very problematic views to express around Australia Day and race relations.
Basically, he pushed a very strong “black armband” view of history and made comments such as Australian governments are “still stealing Aboriginal kids even now”. Hello!?
He went on to comment that we are all here on stolen land, said Australia Day made him feel conflicted, and noted “undercurrents of nationalism and a ‘kiss the flag, love the country or go away’ attitude to Australia Day”. I must say, what’s wrong with that? What’s wrong with celebrating the good in our nation and kissing, rather than burning, our flag?
Australia Day is meant to be inclusive of us all and to bring us together. Funnily enough, the role of
the Race Discrimination Commissioner is, first and foremost, “to promote equality between people of different racial and ethnic backgrounds”. How do comments such as saying that our institutions are “built to really privilege colonialism and whiteness” help do that, and are such comments not discrimination against whites? The current commissioner’s anti-white settler version of history and concerns about Australia Day do not sit well with his role. He is meant to unite, not divide.
It is tempting to add that if he feels we are all on stolen land, why doesn’t he give his house and the land it sits on to the local Aboriginal group, who are the traditional owners of that part of Australia? At the very least, he could pay some of his $400,000 annual salary to them as rent. Put your money where your mouth is, mate.
After Bondi, the last thing we need is the Federal Race Discrimination Commissioner sowing division, especially around Australia Day, which most Australians now not only want to keep, but also want to celebrate for the good things about our country.
Talk about a privileged member of the inner-city elite lecturing the rest of us. No wonder Pauline is doing so well in the polls.
by BERNIE RYAN
Dr Sophie Putland was a daughter, sister, friend, and beloved vet who, whilst working in Melbourne, tragically took her own life in September 2021 at the age of 33.
Shockingly, Dr Putland’s death is far from an isolated incident.
According to a 2020 study by Monash University, “The suicide rate amongst vets is twice as high than in other health disciplines - and four times higher than the general population”.
Every 12 weeks, a veterinarian takes their own life and a study by psychologist Dr Nadine Hamilton found that “…nearly 70% of veterinarians have lost a colleague or peer to suicide and 60% have sought professional help for their mental health”.
Most Australians are likely unaware of the degree to which veterinary doctors, nurses and other team members are suffering, and why.
Dr Putland’s family founded the organisation,
Sophie’s Legacy, to address this lack of awareness and empower veterinary staff to feel supported, valued and safe. They engage with government and industry bodies and strive to create positive change through education and advocacy.
Moved by the cause, local veterinary surgeon Dr Jana Walsh and veterinary practice administrator Pip Atyeo stepped forward to help. Together, they will run Sophie’s Ball on 14 March at the Hellenic Club.
Profits will be donated to Sophie’s Legacy.
Dr Walsh, who has been practising veterinary medicine for over thirty years, says that she too has been affected by the suicide of colleagues.
“I’ve known two people who have committed suicide in that time. One was actually a nurse; it’s not only vets,” she said.
Dr Warwick Vale, former President of the Australian Veterinary Association, puts the worsening mental health of vets down to ‘increasing client demands, changes in attitudes towards veterinary care, increasing costs and dealing with people who can’t afford them’.
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Mrs Atyeo adds that most people are unaware of the constraints that veterinary professionals work within.
“Many people have unrealistic expectations,” she says.
“Particularly regarding the fees, they are charged and the costs involved with providing the high-level veterinary care. Pet owners can accuse vets of being heartless if their pets are not treated for free.”
Dr Walsh adds, “There’s no Medicare for animals. We’re running hospitals … imaging, surgery, labs … and people don’t see those costs. The industry needs to be more transparent about them.”
Pet ownership in Australia also sky-rocketed post COVID-19 to 69%.
With only 15,000 vets in Australia, that equates to around one vet for every 2,026 pets. Which doesn’t include horses, wildlife and livestock.
“Many vets are also graduating without a realistic picture of the harder aspects of veterinary medicine. Extended hours, short staffing, the impact of euthanising pets, financial pressures they are personally under, and the
abuse levelled at them by pet owners,” says Mrs Atyeo.
“Sometimes you might euthanise three animals in an afternoon,” says Dr Walsh.
A survey of just under 600 vets, vet practice owners, vet nurses and other staff was undertaken by Sophie’s Legacy.
It revealed that 88% of the respondents cited client abuse and expectation as the number one contributor to poor mental health.
According to Sophie’s Legacy, “Sophie experienced a serious form of ‘client abuse’ the Monday prior to her death.”
Dr Walsh and Mrs Atyeo ask that people remember that their veterinary professionals “are human too”. Which is one of the media campaigns launched by Sophie’s Legacy.
For many veterinary staff, they have a relationship with a pet and their family for the lifetime of the pet.
“Most doctors don’t carry patients from infancy to death. Vets do. You often get more upset for the people than for the animal. That emotional load builds up,” says Dr Walsh.
“People see a bill and think vets are greedy — they don’t understand the real costs because they’re used to Medicare.”
Mrs Atyeo adds, “We ask that the public become more aware of just how much vets care about their patients and families, and to be kind.”
“Sophie’s Ball is a celebration, a show of support and an opportunity to give back to those who give so much.”
Guests on the night will be treated to music from the community Big Band – Prism Jazz Ensemble (which includes several veterinary professionals), a glass of bubbly on arrival, a three-course meal, wine, raffles and dancing.
Guests are invited to book now as there are limited tickets remaining.
So, grab a ticket, select your favourite outfit from the ’20s to the ’70s, and raise a glass for hope to show the people who care for our beloved pets that we care for them too.
To book, visit trybooking.com/events/ landing/1498502 or scan the QR code. To learn more about Sophie’s Legacy, visit sophieslegacy.com
by NICHOLAS FULLER
Australia’s housing and homelessness crisis is worsening, according to the Productivity Commission.
At the same time, the federal government is spending more on tax breaks for property investors ($12.3 billion in 2025) than on social housing, homelessness services and rent assistance combined ($9.6 billion), new analysis from the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) shows.
ACOSS has called on governments to curb property investor tax breaks and to build more social homes.
Around 190,000 households are on the public housing waitlist, up from around 169,000 in 2024 and around 141,000 in 2018, the Productivity Commission’s Report on Government Services (ROGS) reveals.
41 per cent of people waiting for public housing are homeless or at risk of homelessness – up from 26 per cent in 2015.
Social housing makes up only 3.6 per cent of all
dwellings, down from nearly 5.7 per cent in the 1980s (ROGS) — and less than 2 per cent of dwellings built annually, down from 22 per cent in the 1950s and 15 per cent in the 1970s (ACOSS).
Additionally, 18 per cent of Commonwealth Rent Assistance households are in severe rental stress (paying more than half their income on rent), up from 8.1 per cent in 2004.
27 per cent of people using homelessness services are persistently homeless (homeless for more than seven months out of two years), up from 22 per cent in 2019.
ACOSS — backed by St Vincent de Paul — called on the Federal Government to gradually halve the 50 per cent Capital Gains Tax discount and phase out negative gearing over five years. It should also set national social housing targets and substantially boost social housing supply to meet these targets.
Acting CEO Jacqueline Phillips said: “This report today shows housing stress and homelessness are getting worse while absurdly generous tax breaks
drive up home prices and supercharge inequality in our society.
“More people are struggling to afford the private rental market, pushing them into homelessness and onto growing social housing waitlists. With new social housing accounting for less than two per cent of homes built each year, the situation is set to worsen, not improve.”
The ACT Council of Social Service (ACTCOSS) supports ACOSS’s calls for more social housing and reducing tax breaks for housing investors.
“The need for federal and territory government housing policy change has never been clearer in the ACT,” CEO Dr Devin Bowles said.
“As the ACT public housing waiting list grows, and housing stress overwhelms so many households, the need for more investment in social housing is obvious to most Canberrans.”
Senator David Pocock (Independent) said: “This new report from ACOSS shows just how cooked Australia’s housing system is, with the government spending billions more on tax concessions for investors than they do on social housing, homelessness services and rent assistance.
“I’ve had the Parliamentary Budget Office model some really sensible changes to cap some of these concessions, and continue to call for the government to start treating housing as a human right.”
The 2026 Royal Canberra Show is turning up the volume, the colour and the adrenaline with its biggest line-up of new entertainment and activities yet. This year’s program unleashes a powerhouse mix of elite sport, animal talent, roaring machinery, roving characters and family friendly chaos — transforming the showgrounds into a non stop festival of action, laughter and spectacle. From history making competitions to heart pounding arena shows and hands on play zones, visitors of all ages will discover fresh thrills around every corner.
Feel the ground shake as the inaugural Tri Series Women’s Woodchopping Competition explodes onto the scene, showcasing raw strength, precision and world class athleticism. There is an expanded Dog Lovers Showcase, featuring the gravity-defying K9 Superwall on the main arena, while there will also be free camel
rides available this year.
Rev your engines at the brand new Asset Construction Hire & CORMCC Remote Control Zone, where high speed model cars and mini earthmovers deliver big excitement for kids and adults alike. Then switch gears for pure comedy chaos with the super charged Chicken and Fox Run 2.0, a fast paced family favourite returning with even more feathers, fun and farmyard surprises.
Across the grounds, Crack Up Entertainment brings colour, character and spontaneous joy with roving performers who charm, educate and get crowds dancing after dark. And for the youngest showgoers, the new Circus Play Space invites kids to tumble, balance and clown around in a world of playful discovery.
The 2026 Royal Canberra Show is set to ignite the capital with fresh energy, unforgettable
FRI 20 & SAT 21 FEB 8.30AM - 10.00PM
moments and entertainment that never lets up when it returns from 20 to 22 February. This is the year to bring the whole family, embrace the excitement and experience the Show like never before.
Exhibition Park in Canberra
T: 6241 2478
E: admin@rncas.org.au W: canberrashow.org.au
with NICOLE LAWDER FORMER ACT MLA AND DEPUTY OPPOSITION LEADER
This week I’m humming the Jimmy Barnes song ‘Working Class Man’ as a sarcastic tribute to the ‘jobs for mates’ culture that seems to abound in Australian politics.
After Labor’s 2022 federal election win, Minister for Public Services Katy Gallagher called for an investigation into government appointments to public boards. When former Public Service Commissioner Lynelle Briggs handed her completed independent report on the matter to the government in 2023, it took the government, through Minister Gallagher, until December 2025 to release the report, and then only after much lobbying from the Opposition and crossbench.
Presumably, this was because the report showed that the tendency to appoint mates to these positions
had actually worsened since Labor took office.
Minister Gallagher has unveiled a new framework for government appointments in response, but the government has rejected a number of key recommendations.
In some cases, it is possible, even likely, that the appointee is a good fit irrespective of their political bent. But it is hard to argue that only those of a particular political persuasion are suitable, time after time. Ms Briggs found that the current arrangements were not fit for purpose and “do not always provide the best person for the job” and that the level of appointments is ‘without parallel in other similar Westminster countries and has brought about a climate where Australians now think that all appointments are political appointments.’
This is not a new situation, and it is not confined to federal appointments. A 2022 Grattan Institute report identified Australian politics has a growing ‘jobs for mates’ culture, which is undermining our democracy.
The report, titled ‘New politics: A better process for public appointments’, shows that many federal and state government boards, tribunals, and agencies are stacked with people who have
worked in politics – almost always for the party that was in government when they got the job. While the Commonwealth government takes the cake for political appointments (around 22 per cent of appointments with political affiliations), the ACT government was found to be equal next likely (with Queensland, each around 14 per cent) to make government appointments aligned with the government of the day – in both cases, Labor governments. It may well be that since Labor has been in government for a long time in the ACT, it makes sense that their appointments have been more skewed to their own political side. And there have been a couple of notable exceptions to appointments in the ACT of Liberal politicians, although I would argue that these appointments, particularly with regards to the timing of them just before an election, were politically-driven.
These types of appointments erode public trust in democracy and feed the perception that people in government are only interested in looking after themselves. Some even argue that these ‘jobs for mates’ are damaging to institutional culture and morale and can promote a culture of corruption.
Phone:
ACT seniors have more opportunities to save with the release of the updated ACT Seniors Card Discount Directory 2026–27, launched last week by Minister for Seniors Suzanne Orr MLA at Sense Yowani in Lyneham.
Managed by COTA (Council on the Ageing) ACT on behalf of the ACT Government, the new Directory reflects a strong commitment to supporting older Canberrans with practical, everyday cost-of-living relief. The 2026–27 edition features discounts from more than 450 participating businesses, including a wide range of new and returning o ers.
Business discounts span hospitality, retail, health and wellbeing, trades, leisure and professional services, highlighting the ongoing support of the local business community for ACT Seniors Card holders. Many businesses have refreshed their o ers for the new edition, with new businesses also joining the program.
The Directory also includes clear, easy-toaccess information about ACT Government concessions available to eligible seniors, such as reduced vehicle registration, public transport concessions and free green waste bins.
COTA ACT CEO Jenny Mobbs said the Directory remains a valuable resource for older Canberrans. “The ACT Seniors Card Discount Directory helps seniors stretch their budgets while staying connected to local services and businesses,” Ms Mobbs said. “Each updated edition ensures seniors have access to current discounts and information they can use every day.”
In addition to the printed Directory, seniors are encouraged to use the online ACT Seniors Card Discount Directory, which is updated regularly as new businesses and o ers are added. A limited number of printed copies of the 2026–27 Directory are available from ACT
Libraries and the COTA ACT o ce in Hughes. The ACT Seniors Card program continues to support older Canberrans to stay informed, connected and financially supported.
There is still an opportunity for businesses to join the ACT Seniors Card program and have their discount displayed on the ACT Seniors Card website which is frequently updated with new o erings. Please visit the ACT Seniors Card website to register your business or email seniorscard@cotaact.org.au for more information.
The 2026-27 ACT Seniors Card Discount Directory is out now, featuring discounts from 450+ local businesses and key government concessions
Pick up a free copy at ACT Libraries, drop into the COTA ACT office at Hughes or explore the regularly updated online directory to start saving on everyday essentials.
For many Canberrans, the Canberra Day Appeal is a chance to give where they live. For local charities, it’s a vital opportunity to keep doing work that changes lives close to home.
Driven by Hands Across Canberra, the annual appeal brings together community organisations across the ACT, encouraging residents to support local causes that make a di erence to the community.
This year, Kookaburra Kids is taking part for the second time, using the appeal to raise funds for programs supporting young people growing up in families impacted by mental illness.
Kookaburra Kids provides clinically designed, evidence-based mental health education in a setting that feels anything but clinical. Through camps, activity days and structured sessions, young people aged eight to 18 are given space to have fun, build friendships and learn practical skills that support long-term mental wellbeing.
Kookaburra Kids CEO Sean O’Halloran says the organisation was founded more than 25 years ago to meet a need that is still growing.
“Young people today are facing
increasing challenges around mental health,” he says. “Research shows that if a child is living in a family where a parent has a mental health challenge, they are two to four times more likely to develop their own mental illness. That’s where early intervention becomes so important.”
The camps and activity days give young people a break from pressures at home, while helping them understand mental illness and how to seek support.
Mr O’Halloran often explains the program’s impact through a simple analogy.
“It’s like teaching kids how to recognise a rip at the beach,” he says. “You learn how to read the conditions, understand the danger and know what to do if you need help. That knowledge can make all the di erence.”
The need for that support is significant in the ACT. According to the National Mental Health and Wellbeing Study, more than 36,000 ACT households with dependent children have experienced mental illness at some point.
Much of that impact is delivered by volunteers, who are trained to support young people and help run camps and activity days. Mr O’Halloran says
programs. School holidays now come with one recurring question.
“They always ask, ‘Is there a Kookaburra Kids camp to go to?’” she says. “They’ve got friends at school, but they’ve also formed friendships outside of school through the program.”
Beyond the fun and adventure, Kirsty says the impact on her family has been profound.
“They come back talking about di erent ways of coping, and about how everyone’s brain works a little di erently,” she says. “Our whole family is neurodivergent, so that understanding has helped them show patience with their siblings and friends. They use language they understand, which makes it really powerful.”
As Canberra Day approaches, Kirsty says supporting organisations like Kookaburra Kids is more important than ever.
Canberra’s strong volunteer culture has been central to the organisation’s work in the ACT, with many volunteers also taking part in the Canberra Day Fun Run as a show of local support.
“Our volunteers are a huge part of how we deliver that support,” Mr O’Halloran says. “Canberra has an incredibly strong volunteer culture, and that makes a real di erence to the young people we work with.”
For Canberra mum Kirsty, Kookaburra Kids has been life-changing for her family. She is a parent to two children and a step-parent to two more, with eldest Ollie, 16, joined by Laurel, 12, Lex, 10, and Patrick, nine.
As a Defence family, Kirsty and her children moved frequently around Australia, and it was through a Defence family liaison o cer that she first learned about Kookaburra Kids. With mental health challenges within the family, her eldest son, Ollie, attended a camp first.
“He absolutely loved it,” she says. “My younger son was so jealous and as soon as he turned eight, he said, ‘Now I get to go.’ He went on his first camp and had an absolute ball.”
Since then, all four of Kirsty’s children have taken part in Kookaburra Kids
“Young people are desperate for support,” she says. “Programs like this can only exist if they’re funded. I would much rather my kids be involved in Kookaburra Kids than some of the other things kids their age can get into. It’s screen-free, it’s positive, and it lets them just be kids again.”
During the Canberra Day Appeal, every dollar donated to Kookaburra Kids will be matched up to $2,500, doubling the impact of each gift. All funds raised go directly to supporting local programs in the ACT.
For Mr O’Halloran, that local focus is what makes the appeal so powerful.
“The sense of community in Canberra is incredibly strong,” he says. “The more support we receive, the more young people we can reach. Giving where you live really does change lives.”
Canberrans can support Kookaburra Kids by donating through the Canberra Day Appeal and selecting the organisation as their chosen charity, helping local children build resilience, confidence and connection where it matters most.
To donate, scan the QR code or head to canberra-day-appeal-2026. raiselysite.com.
To learn more about Kookaburra Kids, head to kookaburrakids. org.au.
community noticeboard email news@newstimemedia.com.au with ‘HYH’ in the subject field
GIVIT is an ACT Government partner working with an organisation that provides support to cancer patients and their families. They are seeking support for a parent who is currently undergoing cancer treatment and experiencing financial hardship. Unable to work for months due to cancer, this parent has been struggling with expenses for cancer treatment and the back-to-school needs of their child. They are focused on getting better, but this parent requires support to meet their child’s educational needs. This organisation is requesting clothing vouchers to assist this family during this difficult time. Your donation will mean a lot to this parent who is trying their best to heal and at the same time provide for the needs of their child. Generous Canberrans can donate clothing vouchers or fund its purchase. 100% of your financial donation will be used to purchase what’s needed. To help please visit: GIVIT.org.au/what’s-needed, search; Location State: ‘ACT’, Keywords: ‘clothing
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a traditional Australian bush dance on Saturday 14 February at Currie Crescent Community Hall (Canberra Baptist Church), Kingston. Dancing runs from 7:30–10:30pm with the Argyll Ceilidh Band and caller Jude Stuart. All dances are taught, so no experience is needed; singles and couples welcome. Tickets $25, with discounts for Monaro Folk Society members, concessions and students; under 18s free. Please bring a plate to share for supper. Details: monarofolk.org.au/st-valentines-day-bush-dance or phone/text 0413 295 004.
ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19)
Stress has a way of narrowing thought processes, but at least everyone around you feels it, too, so it becomes a reason to help one another. Someone special helps you relax and laugh. Your slightly twisted whimsy finds its match, and together you create a private little bubble of fun.
TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20)
If someone monitored your every move, you’d find it intrusive. So don’t let your own mind scrutinise your behaviour. What needs attention are not your habits but the constant oversight, especially around basic needs such as eating and sleeping. Your body has its reasons.
GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 21)
1 What is the capital city of Belize?
2 Who won the Academy Award for Best Actor in 2025?
3 What do ticks eat as their primary food source?
4 Welcome Sir I’m So Delighted is a song from which famous musical?
5 The “Australian Made” logo is predominantly what colour?
Your approach to the week is beautifully intentional. What you want to accomplish is foremost on your mind, and it’s also in your notes, so you stay on track. You know what you’re giving and getting, and you make sure it’s fair. But what matters most of all is how you want to feel.
CANCER (JUNE 22-JULY 22)
Progress over perfection? Sure, for typical efforts but that’s not what you’re up to. You’re so close to doing stunning work, making truly impactful contributions and being so impressive that you can charge top dollar for your goods. You’re chasing perfection for reasons that will count.
LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22)
You value independence and personal boundaries, and not just your own. You truly believe that each person is operating under circumstances that may never be known or understood by you, and though you’re curious, you’re not nosy. It is this respect that makes you a peaceful force in the world.
VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22)
You have patience, observation and timing in abundance. It’s actually more fun that not everything is given or revealed at once. Ask the wrong kind of questions and you may never get to the answers. But wait and watch. Doors, hearts and worlds will open to you.
LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 23)
Progress rarely happens in a straight line. Renovations involve chaos, and relationships have blips on the road to intimacy. Expecting constant improvement is unrealistic and can trap you in frustration. The ups, downs, hits and misses are all essential to ultimate success.
SCORPIO (OCT. 24-NOV. 21)
You love a particular activity so much that it wouldn’t matter if you failed or even felt embarrass-ed in the process. Success isn’t the point; the payoff is the work itself. When you have this kind of special interest, making time for it regularly is an act of self-love, nourishment or even destiny.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21)
Everything you’ve learned is worth learning. Just because you rarely get to apply the lesson doesn’t mean your mind and being aren’t better for the exercise of engaging with various aspects of the world. This week brings high hopes and deep self-respect and love for this journey of no regrets.
CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19)
Tenderness has healing powers you could use now. A little sweetness is just what the cosmic doctor ordered. Stars urge you to avoid those who offer a subtle form of control instead of the genuine understanding you need. Seek comfort from those who have one agenda: to uplift you.
AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18)
Just because you’ve tried a dozen methods that don’t work, it doesn’t mean the problem is unsolvable. Your right answer is still out there, and the fact that you’re trying so many things just makes you more informed and well-rounded. This is your lucky week to widen the search.
PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20)
Why do you need things to go a certain way? Is it about feeling seen and being respected? Or do the details and methods serve the greater good? Both reasons are valid. Knowing the truth gives you the objectivity and detachment that ultimately puts you in a more powerful position.
Looking to book a table for two for Valentine’s Day this year? Or perhaps just dining out with friends? Look no further than our round-up of some of the best restaurants in Canberra for a romantic meal, or just good eating, depending on whose company you choose to keep on the international day of love.
Kivotos Wine Bar
Inspired by Greek hospitality, Kivotos is all about shared plates, conversation and lingering over food and wine. Expect modern Greek flavours, a strong Mediterranean wine list and a warm, vibrant atmosphere that naturally suits a Valentine’s celebration.
33 Mort St, Braddon & 1 Matilda St, Phillip Water’s Edge
A go-to for classic romance. Refined dining, impeccable service and views out to Lake Burley Griffin make this ideal for couples who love a specialoccasion dinner.
40 Parkes Pl, Parkes
For a Valentine’s Day that feels indulgent and considered, Lunetta delivers Italian-inspired dining with a sense of occasion. Expect top-shelf food at this award-winning restaurant and stunning views over Canberra. Perfect for a special date night.
60 Red Hill Dr, Red Hill
MED
A relaxed and flavour-packed Valentine’s option, MED is serving a Mediterranean-inspired banquet menu. Expect vibrant dishes, generous plates and a sweet finish, paired with wines or a special Valentine’s cocktail.
1/1 Burbury Cl, Barton
The Meat & Wine Co
The Meat & Wine Co is serving up a curated Valentine’s set menu for two, designed to showcase their most loved dishes. Or if you want to celebrate the day early, their à la carte menu is open for lunch.
220 London Cct, Ground Lvl, 1 Constitution Ave
For a Valentine’s night that’s fun, stylish and full of flavour, KOTO brings modern Japanese dining to the table. Think shareable plates, bold flavours and a lively atmosphere that suits couples who prefer energy over formality, with cocktails and dishes designed to keep the night moving.
1 King George Terrace, Parkes
Canberra’s local wine scene will be in the spotlight when Canberra Wine Day Out arrives at the Fyshwick Markets on Sunday 8 February, bringing together winemakers, wine lovers and market-goers for a relaxed afternoon of tasting and connection.
Hosted by local bottle shop Plonk, the event builds on the success of the Markets’ popular Beer Day Out, this time turning the focus to Canberra and regional wines.
Plonk owner Stephen Royds says the idea came naturally after seeing how much people enjoyed meeting brewers and trying new styles at previous events.
“We have had huge success with our Beer Day Out event in promoting local and regional breweries, and thought that it would be great showcase some of our local winemakers,” he says. “People love having the opportunity to try different varieties and styles, and we wanted to support our local wineries in the same way they have supported us over the years. It is also a
great way to promote the fantastic quality of wine that is produced in Canberra.”
Guests can expect a walk-through tasting experience, with 13 wineries offering free tastings of their ranges, some represented by the winemakers themselves.
“We have 13 wineries hosting free tastings of their range, with some represented by the winemakers themselves,” Mr Royds says. “Guests will be able to chat with the winemaker and ask questions to get an insight into what they are producing.”
Wineries on the day include Capital Wines, Collector Wines, Dog Trap Vineyard, Eden Road Wines, Gallagher Wines, Kosciuszko Wines, Linear Wines, Mada Wines, Mount Majura Wines, Nick O’Leary Wines, Sapling Yard Wines, Ravensworth Wines and Wimbaliri Wines.
As a local, family-owned business, Plonk sees the event as an important way to give back to the region.
“We are a local, family-owned, and independent
small business, and we know the importance of supporting other local businesses,” Mr Royds says. “We stock approximately 200 different wines from almost 40 local wineries and are proud to recommend them to our customers.”
Guests are also able to pre-purchase a charcuterie plate from Deli Planet to enjoy alongside their wine.
Canberra Wine Day Out is on at the Fyshwick Markets on Sunday 8 February, 123pm. Attendance is free, but registrations are essential.
Scan the QR code to register.
by BERNIE RYAN
and the night spirals into chaos.
This week, Michael Popple highlights three amazing recent fantasy and science fiction releases. You can find more of Michael’s book reviews on his blog: unseenlibrary.com
Months by Jim Butcher Orbit, $34.99
Canberra Repertory Society (REP) launches its 2026 season with a comic masterpiece from one of the world’s most prolific playwrights.
Alan Ayckbourn’s Bedroom Farce is a whirlwind of marital mishaps, midnight disasters, and three bedrooms that witness far more than they should.
Bedroom Farce was last performed at REP in 1981, and this return brings the classic back to the stage with new energy, sharp timing, and a director who knows Ayckbourn’s world.
Director Aarne Neeme AM, whose association with REP spans more than four decades and more than a dozen productions, describes the play as “a hectic night in which three bedrooms are presented simultaneously on stage and the action flows in and out from one to another”.
Mr Neeme says, “Ernest and Delia go out to celebrate their wedding anniversary. Malcolm and
Following a magical invasion, Chicago has been devastated, and its wizard protector, Harry Dresden, is lost in grief. But with his city in ruins, Harry doesn’t have time to mourn. Forced to face rampaging ghouls; while also trying to save his dying brother and navigate a political marriage to a vampire queen, can Harry survive the following turbulent year? Jim Butcher continues his iconic Dresden Files series in epic fashion with this exceptional novel. An elaborate and powerful addition, Twelve Months perfectly showcases grief and regret and is one of the best fantasy novels of 2026, so far.
Kate are preparing a housewarming party. Nick has hurt his back and is confined to bed. All three preparations are doomed to disaster by the marital problems of Trevor and Susannah, who descend on each couple in turn, leaving chaos in their wake.”
Allen & Unwin, $24.99
Mr Neeme says, “It’s a play full of movement, mischief, and emotional truth. The cast have created wonderfully inventive physical moments — including some spectacularly chaotic fight choreography — and the set is a superb creation thanks to Russell Brown.”
His past REP credits include Just Between Ourselves, Arcadia, The Threepenny Opera, Witness for the Prosecution, A Doll’s House, and many more.
Mars, 2067. The planet has been colonised, although only the rich, such as Hunter Graves, can travel to it. However, Hunter arrives just minutes before Mar’s main settlement is evacuated, leaving him behind. Encountering resourceful stowaway
With a career that began in the early 1960s and professional directing credits across theatre, television, and drama schools, Mr Neeme brings a wealth of experience and a deep affection for REP to this production.
“Being part of the REP family has always been a joy,” he says. “And Bedroom Farce is a wonderful opportunity to revisit Ayckbourn’s razor sharp humour and his extraordinary understanding of human relationships.”
Ayckbourn’s comedy is a masterclass in timing, structure, and character. With three bedrooms on stage at once, scenes collide, relationships unravel,
Cleo, the two teens must work to survive a gang of mercenaries who intend to blow up the base, and everyone in it. Prepare for excitement, romance and a whole lot of snarky humour in this new young adult novel from Australian Amie Kaufman. Following two entertaining characters in a great science fiction adventure, Kaufman has produced another awesome book that young readers will deeply enjoy.
Antonia Kitzel, who plays the character Kate, says, “This is a comedy about relationships.”
Bloomsbury, $32.99
“Because it was written in the 70’s, when you watch it now, the way we look at relationships has changed,” Ms Kitzel adds.
So what is different?
“It’s how we talk about relationships feelings and emotions and what is considered a ‘good conversation’ today … some of the lines that were written as a full-on comedy then, can seem a bit ‘mean today,” she says.
These differences between then and now, “…make if funnier but they also make you think more”, says Ms Ketzel.
Bedroom Farce runs 19 February – 7 March, for three weeks only at Canberra REP Theatre, 3 Repertory Lane, Acton, Canberra.
Bookings: canberrarep.org.au/content/book-onlinechoose-production
Khamilla Zahr-zad is the daughter of an emperor, who enters his service after it is discovered she wields great magical power. However, after a series of tragic invasions destroys her family, Khamilla swears vengeance and works to infiltrate the empire responsible for her pain. But the more she learns from her enemies, the more she questions everything she thought she knew. From the mind of a talented new author comes the elaborate fantasy debut, Dawn of the Firebird. A heartfelt and complex novel loaded with beautiful Middle Eastern cultural elements; this is an outstanding debut that is really worth reading.
One of Canberra’s best-known pubs, King O’Malley’s is again supporting the Memory Walk & Jog, with owner Peter Barclay saying returning to help raise dementia awareness and much-needed research funds was an easy decision.
“It’s such an important way of communicating to the community about dementia, the importance of awareness, and raising funds to assist with research and hopefully discovering a cure,” he said.
The event invites participants to register to walk or run around Lake Burley Griffin, with distances catering to all abilities. Funds raised through registrations and sponsorships go towards dementia research via Dementia Australia.
For Peter, the cause is deeply personal. His mother, Dorothy (Dodi), has lived with dementia for about a decade and is now residing at Goodwin in Ainslie.
“I’ve seen the progressive decline over the last ten years, from when she was living with us to later moving into care,” he said. “It really reinforces that dementia care is a community responsibility. It truly
does take a village. The network of friends, carers and community members working together makes a huge difference.”
He said the event creates a space where people can share experiences and feel less alone in what can be an isolating journey. “When people walk together at this event, share stories and experiences, it helps people realise they’re not alone,” said Peter.
“There can be a lot of guilt, people wondering if they could have done things differently, recorded more stories or spent more time together. Once dementia progresses, those memories can be lost, so sharing experiences becomes really important.”
Peter praised the care his mother receives at Goodwin, particularly the memory support unit, which he described as a warm and welcoming environment that encourages connection and dignity.
For families newly navigating a dementia diagnosis, his advice is simple: reach out.
“There is a lot of support out there, and people shouldn’t be afraid to access it,” said Peter.
“Dementia is a journey, and while it’s challenging, it can also be rewarding. Science is making real progress, and simple things like good nutrition, exercise and social connection can make a difference right now. Community really is at the heart of it all.”
He said events like the walk highlight the importance of community, compassion and connection. “Dementia is a journey. It’s challenging, but it can also be meaningful. Community really is at the heart of it all.”
The Memory Walk & Jog returns on Sunday 22 February. To register, visit memorywalk.com.au/ register/canberra. To donate to Peter and the Goodwin Ainslie team, visit memorywalk.com.au/fundraisers/ GoodwinAinslie or scan the QR Code
by GEORGIA CURRY
For the first time, Canberra’s Multicultural Festival is including comedy (and drag queens), so comedian Michael Hing is in town and it’s not his first time – he’s been to Cockington Green, hot-air ballooned during Enlighten and dined at Happy’s Chinese Restaurant in Garema Place.
This fifth-generation Chinese-Australian is virtually a local (he loves the coffee at The Cupping Room) and he recalls fondly the train ride at Cockington Green.
“When I was working on Triple J, we did live shows in Canberra and we went to Cockington Green, the miniature village, so we could do the world’s biggest radio show in relation to its surrounds,” Michael said.
“We got on the train and we got David Pocock and the ACT Brumbies, because our producer needed a bunch of really big people to come on the train with us so that we seem like an even bigger radio show ... we just rode the miniature train with the ACT Brumbies for 20 minutes
while we did our radio show. It was such a weird, surreal experience.”
Michael often comes to Canberra for comedy shows (and to make the trip a tax deduction) and in all seriousness, he loves our city and wants to move here.
“My wife is always telling me we should move to Canberra,” he said. “She would love to live in Canberra, it’s actually a nice place. Here’s why I think Canberra is cool: Canberra has a university and that brings young people, which is kind of cool.
“Canberra is affordable, right? I mean nothing’s affordable but it’s more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne. Also, there are times of the year where all the losers leave, all the politicians and the politicos leave and I think that changes the vibe.”
Michael’s been instructed to deliver a “familyfriendly” show at the multi culti with no swearing, which poses a bit of a challenge to this cussing comedian.
“It is like part of the job,” he said. “I’m
obviously not [a swearer] on broadcast media but yeah, I just did a show last night in Perth and there’s an eight-minute bit I’m doing right now about the Epstein files. That won’t be coming to Canberra.”
As a self-confessed fussy eater with a lot of “weird food rules”, hopefully Michael will find something to eat at one of the multi culti’s 260+ stalls.
“I don’t eat meat and I try not to eat animal products, but because I was a very picky eater as a child, I try to be, within those strictures, very adventurous now.”
Chip-on-a-stick perhaps?
Michael’s more than qualified to talk all things multicultural, after making three seasons of the SBS documentary, Where Are You Really From? – a question he still gets asked despite his family having lived in Australia for more than 100 years.
Michael grew up in Sydney, his mum’s family hails from Walgett and Lightning Ridge and his dad’s from Maitland and Thursday Island. You have to trace back four or five generations to
get to an ancestor who was a migrant, but still people assume Michael was born elsewhere because of his appearance.
“The documentary was all about migrant communities that have been in Australia for over 100 years all across the country,” he said. “And you think oh, maybe it’s just in the big cities. No, it’s in country towns.
“It’s in regional rural areas. The story of this country post-colonisation or post-settlement has been one of people of different walks of life, different faiths, different cultures existing in this country.”
More than 250 performances are scheduled for the multi culti, including Michael Hing at 8:40pm on 6 Friday February at Ainslie Place Stage. The 28th National Multicultural Festival is on 6-8 February. Info: multiculturalfestival.com.au
Wonderful opportunity to ask questions and gather information
On display will be the latest resort style developments as well as established villages from many different organisations, all offering a wide range of services & facilities, sizes, prices and locations. This is a wonderful opportunity to ask questions and gather information about many different retirement communities, all under one roof with free admission. Sunday 15th & Monday 16th February 2026
Family Festival You & your family/friends are welcome to join us the coming
• Lion Dance performing by Mountains Lion Dance Team
• Red Lucky Envelope & 1000s FREE Buddhism Books to ALL
statuses with love as an inevitable outcome. Send Help plays up to this genre, with director Sam Raimi (The Evil Dead franchise) interweaving his signature comedy horror stylings.
• New Year Gift presented to all Children
• Lucky Fruits & Well Wishing Verses to ALL
• FireCrackers, Music performance & Food Stalls
• COURTESY Annual Vegetarian Dinner, ALL INVITED (strictly between 6.30pm to 7.30pm)
Monday, 16 February 2026 at 6.00pm to 1.00am Sakyamuni Buddhist Centre 32 Archibald St, LYNEHAM, ACT 2602
Meek corporate strategist and planner Linda Liddle (Rachel McAdams) looks forward to a long-deserved promotion. Her preppy new boss, Bradley Preston (Dylan O’Brien), however, gives it to his old college buddy instead. Soon, Bradley offers Linda a chance to prove her worth by accompanying him on a business trip to Bangkok. On the way, however, the plane crashes, with the two ending up stranded on a remote, deserted island.
Struggling in the corporate world, Linda thrives on the island. Yuppy boss Bradley, however, is at a complete loss without his office fixtures, his value tied to pre-established connections and material goods. It is a shame that the movie ignores the possibility of each character learning from each other’s strengths, instead borrowing liberally and lazily from Triangle of Sadness (2022).
ADMISSION FREE – ALL WELCOME
For more information, please contact: Most. Ven. Thich Quang Ba Mob. 0412-224-553 | thichquangba@gmail.com
Usually, movies about opposing personalities stuck on an island are romantic comedy dramas such as The Blue Lagoon (1980), Swept Away (1974/2002) and Six Days, Seven Nights (1998). While trying to survive inhospitable, but ultimately romantic, tropical settings, the pair undergo a battle of the sexes with fluctuating
Verdict: A fun concept let down by a lazy, inconsistent, pandering ending.
- Luke McWilliams, themovieclub.net Viewed at Palace Cinemas.
with DR VIVIENNE LEWIS ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST AT UNIVERSITY OF CANBERRA
Valentine’s Day has a habit of turning ordinary places into reminders that you’re single. School corridors, uni campuses, supermarkets, group chats and social media suddenly feel louder, pinker and more focused on who’s dating who. If you don’t have a Valentine, or you’re not sure you even want one, the day can feel awkward.
As a clinical psychologist, I see people of all ages struggle with Valentine’s Day, but for di erent reasons at di erent stages of life. Adolescents and young adults often feel pressure to be ‘chosen’ or worry they are falling behind some invisible timeline. For others, Valentine’s Day can reopen more complicated wounds, reminding them of a relationship that has ended, a marriage that didn’t last, or a partner who is no longer
here. Whether you are single by circumstance or by loss, the emotional impact can be just as strong.
One of the biggest challenges of Valentine’s Day is comparison. We compare our lives to couples on social media, to romantic expectations shaped by movies and advertising, or to where we thought we would be by now. These comparisons often fuel harsh self-talk, such as “Everyone else has someone,” or “I’ve failed at relationships.” These thoughts are understandable, but they are not facts.
A healthier approach starts with acknowledging how the day feels, without judgement. Feeling sad, flat, awkward, lonely or grief-stricken on Valentine’s Day makes sense in a culture that places such heavy emphasis on romantic love.
It also helps to broaden the definition of love Romantic love is only one form of connection. Friendships, family relationships, pets, neighbours, colleagues and community connections all provide genuine care and belonging. For people who have experienced separation, divorce or bereavement, these connections are often what carry them through the hardest seasons.
Being intentional with the day can also help. You might choose to ignore Valentine’s Day entirely, or you might plan something nurturing, such as a walk, a gym class, cooking a favourite meal, spending time with people who feel safe, or quietly honouring a relationship that mattered.
Pay attention to your inner dialogue. Valentine’s Day can trigger painful narratives about being unlovable, behind, or broken. Gently challenge these stories. Relationship status is not a measure of worth, and the end of a relationship does not erase the love that existed or the value you bring.
For parents supporting teenagers, your response can make a real di erence. Avoid minimising their feelings. Instead, listen, validate, and remind them that relationships develop at di erent times for di erent people, and that being single at any age is completely normal.
Finally, remember this: being alone does not mean being broken, and it does not mean this is permanent. Valentine’s Day will pass. What matters far more than one day is how kindly we speak to ourselves, and to each other, when it feels hard.
by Michelle Richards, Director & Accredited Hearing Specialist — Michelle Richards Hearing, Dickson
We often think of hearing loss as “just getting older” or a minor irritation. But the real impact goes far beyond missed words — it touches our relationships, confidence, safety, and even our brain health.
That’s why supporting your hearing early isn’t just about hearing better today — it’s about living brighter tomorrow.
Why hearing makes life richer Hearing connects us to the people and experiences that matter. It helps us:
• Enjoy shared conversations during the holidays and at family gatherings.
• Stay alert to important sounds — from a friend calling your name to the bell of an approaching bicycle.
• Feel confident and engaged in social and work life.
When hearing slips gradually, your brain works harder to fill in the gaps. Over time, this extra e ort can contribute to mental fatigue and social withdrawal — and research suggests a strong link between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline later in life.
It’s not just about volume — it’s about clarity
Hearing loss isn’t simply “louder” or “quieter.” Often, people struggle to hear:
• Conversations in noisy places
• Women’s and children’s voices
• Speech consonants that make language clear
These subtle changes can make socialising tiring and frustrating — and many people adapt without realising how much they’re missing. Solutions that fit your life, not just your ears
Today’s hearing technology has moved far beyond bulky, old-fashioned devices. Modern hearing aids can be:
• Discreet and comfortable
• Rechargeable and maintenance-friendly
• Wireless and phone-connected
• Smart-noise-filtering for busy environments
As an independent hearing practice, we don’t push a single brand. Instead, we match the best possible technology to your hearing needs, lifestyle, and budget — whether you’re self-funding, using the Hearing Services Program (HSP), or accessing DVA support.
Real people, real outcomes
For many Canberrans, a simple hearing test has been life-changing. One client, John, rediscovered joy in conversation after years of struggling to understand everyday speech. Through personalised assessment and support, his hearing aids helped him reconnect with friends and family — and regain confidence in social settings.
Your hearing health checklist
You might consider a hearing check if you’ve noticed:
Turning up the TV louder than others
Asking people to repeat themselves more often
Feeling drained after social interactions
Friends or family noticing changes in your hearing
Even small signs matter — and early support makes rehabilitation easier and more e ective. What happens at your first visit?
A thorough hearing assessment with us includes:
• A caring discussion about your hearing experience
• A full ear and auditory evaluation
• Clear, jargon-free explanation of your results
• Tailored recommendations to suit your unique hearing needs
There’s no pressure — just a personalised path forward.
Michelle Richards Hearing — Ethical. Local. Independent.
Located in Dickson, Canberra.
Book online at michellerichardshearing.com.au or call 02 6281 0222
By ANDREW BROWN & TESS IKONOMOU, AAP
States and territories will get more funding for public hospitals from the federal government after an eleventhhour deal was reached.
Jurisdictions will get $25 billion extra in Commonwealth funding for hospitals, following a meeting of national cabinet on Friday.
Anthony Albanese said the five-year deal, which will come into effect from July, will see more than $219 billion provided, which is triple the amount previously given to jurisdictions under the last agreement.
It’s $2 billion more than what the
prime minister earlier put on the table to premiers and chief ministers when renegotiating hospital funding arrangements.
“It is a major step forward in addressing the pressures that are there on our health and aged care systems, as well as on the NDIS, ensuring their sustainability into the future,” Mr Albanese told reporters in Sydney on Friday.
“Under our federation system, what that requires is for the Commonwealth, together with states and territories, to work together in the interests of the respective states, but also in the national interest.
“That is what we have been
provided for with this agreement.”
The national cabinet meeting was the last chance for federal, state and territory leaders to agree to hospital funding measures before the current arrangements lapsed.
While it wasn’t due to expire until the end of June, an impending election in South Australia in march meant that government would go into caretaker mode and negotiations could not be carried out with all jurisdictions.
The Albanese government in December had offered $23 billion for public hospitals across five years, including $2 billion to help states manage elderly patients languishing
in hospitals while they wait for aged care beds.
States and territories had insisted the federal government stick to a 2023 agreement that the Commonwealth would increase its share of public hospital funding to 42.5 per cent by 2030 and 45 per cent by 2035.
The government had offered greater hospital funding in exchange for states and territories picking up more of the cost of disability services such as the NDIS.
ACT reactions: Labor government and Opposition
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the Territory would benefit significantly
from new funding arrangements.
“The ACT Government welcomes the agreement that has been reached at National Cabinet today on the health and National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) reforms,” he said.
“We are pleased the Commonwealth has acknowledged the pressure in meeting our future hospital and public health demands, particularly for a smaller jurisdiction like the ACT where it costs more to run a health system.
“As part of the agreement today, the ACT is forecasted to receive from the Commonwealth $4.1 billion over five years to 2030-31. This includes an additional $557 million in public hospital funding and a significant uplift of $150 million over the next two years to address the challenges smaller jurisdictions face delivering health services, while more permanent arrangements are concluded.”
However, the Canberra Liberals
said that Labor governments were short-changing ACT Health. Party leader Mark Parton MLA, the shadow health minister, said:
“The Canberra Liberals acknowledge the additional health funding identified for the ACT in today’s National Cabinet announcement, but Canberrans deserve to see the fine print before celebrating.
“While ACT Labor will rush to declare a win, the reality is that the reported $557 million over five years equates to around $111 million per year, barely a drop in the bucket when the Territory lost more than half a billion dollars last year to interest expenses alone.
“Canberrans need transparency on the year-by-year funding schedule, and proof this agreement will actually strengthen frontline health services, rather than continuing the longrunning cost-shifting blame game between governments.”
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Suite 7/5 McKay Gardens, Turner ACT 2612 Clinic open Monday to Friday
Positioned high within the soughtafter On Forbes complex, this beautifully presented apartment delivers a refined inner-north lifestyle with treetop views stretching to Black Mountain Tower. Thoughtfully finished to exacting standards, the home features hardwood floors, doubleglazed windows and a generous wraparound balcony that effectively extends the living space and provides an ideal setting for entertaining.
The open-plan layout is designed to maximise light and outlook, while the segregated bedrooms offer privacy. Both bedrooms are generous in size and include built-in robes and ensuitestyle bathrooms finished with floorto-ceiling tiles.
Location is a standout, with the Macarthur Light Rail stop just
a short walk away, along with the shops and cafés of Dickson, Lyneham and O’Connor. Braddon and the city centre are also within easy reach, making this an outstanding home or investment in one of Canberra’s most connected neighbourhoods. 2
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6 Price $690,000+ View Saturday 9:30 – 10am Agent Andrew Browne Mob 0403 169 259 LJ Hooker Dickson 026257 2111
Large lots offering a family-focused lifestyle without the high price tag of city living.
• Lot sizes ranging from 850m² to 1,547m²
• All lots are fully serviced and ready to build on
• Freehold Land with no time limit to build
• $80m state-of-the-art High School (opening 2027)
• $2.5m Bungendore Sports Hub (now open)
For the latest plans and prices visit Elm Grove Sales Office 1 Charlotte Place, Bungendore Saturday & Sunday 12pm – 4pm elmgroveestate.com.au
Nestled in one of Turner’s most tranquil, tree-lined streets, this elegant Architect designed three-bedroom townhouse built by one of Canberra’s best builders offers a rare blend of comfort, privacy and central convenience. This refined residence delivers not just a home, but a lifestyle in a boutique complex of only 6 residences. The design has been thoughtfully curated for comfort and ease, flowing over two levels. A spacious living room looks out to the back courtyard and the open-plan kitchen and dining space blends style with practicality. The king-sized master suite offers a tranquil retreat with a large walk-in wardrobe and ensuite. Two additional bedrooms easily accommodate queen and double bed furniture, and the second bedroom has its own private balcony overlooking lush treetops, filling the room with soft natural light. Every space speaks to quality, calm and thoughtful design. You’ll love the quietness of this location and yet, everything is at your fingertips. From light rail access to early morning coffee in Braddon, to peaceful parkland strolls, weekend barefoot bowls at the Turner RUC, or walking the kids to school, it’s all just moments away. – time to immerse yourself in this desirable location.
AUCTION: On Site Thursday 26th February 2026, 6pm
OPEN TIMES: Please refer to websites for details
Set on a large parcel of land and enjoying a northerly aspect, absolute liveability is the phrase that comes to mind when visiting this well-designed two storey renovated five bedroom, three bathroom family residence. Free-flowing living areas feature a fireplace, family room and adjacent kitchen, offering a fluid indoor and outdoor flow, perfect for all those future family events. Segregated master bedroom, with another wing of the home having 4 king, queen and double sized bedrooms ensure everyone has their own space. Downstairs could be a third living area or second generation living, with an additional bathroom close to the pool. The outdoor oasis is the crown jewel of the property. Dive into the mineral-rich waters of your MagnaPool, which uses magnesium to provide a luxurious, eco-friendly swim, with a heat pump and solar blanket extending the swimming season. As well as a 7.92kW solar array and a 10kWh LG battery, and smart transfer of fireplace heat, there are too many features to mention here. Please visit prior to Auction.
AUCTION: On Site Saturday 14TH February 2026, 1:30pm
OPEN TIMES: Please refer to websites for details
There are only 8 of this floorplan available and a fully renovated version like this rarely comes to the market. Owners have undertaken these renovations for their own comfort, and buyers will appreciate everything is to a very high standard. Located in the heart of cosmopolitan Kingston, this trendy two-storey three bedroom ensuite apartment is sure to impress those who yearn for space to spread out. The apartment includes open plan living with a large formal lounge, separate dining area, an informal living room plus space for a study nook near the stairwell. The master bedroom with ensuite and a huge double shower is on the lower level, while upstairs includes the bathroom with skylight and the other two queen sized bedrooms with built-in robes. The laundry space and attic storage will set this apartment from others, with such a well-considered design to maximise the upstairs bathroom space. The home enjoys leafy views from its two balconies with ideal space for alfresco meals or morning coffee with the papers.
Penthouse views to make your heart sing! No other Red Hill apartment can boast the size, or privacy or the mesmerising views of this bespoke Penthouse. Walls of floor to ceiling windows frame the magical vistas of the iconic Canberra landscape within this tranquil habitat, with nothing before you to break the spell. In terms of design, this is the only Penthouse surrounding Lady Nelson Park that has total coverage of the top floor as a single residence. No other neighbours on the same floor, and no sharing of your foyer. This is an exquisitely crafted sky home way above the Red Hill tree canopy with views beyond, incorporating a vista of 270 degrees of the Inner South / Parliamentary skyline. Fine craftmanship, meticulous attention to detail and a bespoke sensibility defines this most distinguished address in “The Parks”. Flooded with natural light, it reveals a considered design with sleek open planned living areas, customized kitchen with breakfast bar all spilling out to three huge balconies ready for future entertaining.
AUCTION: On Site Saturday 14 February 2026, 9:30am OPEN TIMES:
Please refer to websites for details
This 1983 ex display home is a credit to the owners, offering privacy and seamless integration so close to nature and great walking tracks. Dial back to 1983 when ex display homes were the pinnacle of craftsmanship. The well-designed floorplan ensures great liveability for all members of the family. The home is situated on 911m2, with double glazed windows along one side of the home with visitors commenting on how quiet it is. Two living areas, plus a separate dining room area allow the family enough room to spread out for any number of activities. The kitchen has a great position for entertaining with the outdoor pergola so close by. All bedrooms easily accommodate a mixture of king, queen and double bed furniture, with plenty of robes for storage. Whether this is a larger home than your current residence, or perhaps you wish to downsize from a two-storey home, this offers the very best for your future. Now you have the chance to be the lucky new owner.
Waterview
A Magnificent Rural Holding set amid gently undulating countryside with sweeping valley views, this exceptional 45 ha property offers a rare blend of lifestyle, beauty and history with farm stay, B&B, Agri business opportunities.
The Main Homestead
A beautifully styled and extensively renovated main residence , includes; 4 generous bedrooms (main with ens) 4 ½ bathrooms, elegant formal lounge, sitting room, billiard room, gorgeous country style kitchen dining for 12, elegant covered verandah
Shearers Quarters includes; 6 bedrooms, (Sleeps 12) , 2 bathrooms, lounge and dining.
Infra structure & Improvements
• Original timber 5-stand Shearing Shed, large Hay Shed + Machinery Shed
• Silo, Sheep Yards,2 Dams, Permanent Creek
• Bore, Multiple water tanks, New fencing
Ideally positioned just 10–15 minutes from Burrinjuck Dam, offering boating, fishing, kayaking, and hiking. Approximately 25 minutes to Yass, 55 mins to Canberra.
Enquiries Bill Frew Delta Ag 0428 482 686
Bernie Johnson Yass First National R/E 0427 394 482 View OPEN Saturday 7th & 14th Feb - 12.45 – 1.30pm
Price $ 2,200,000
Country Escape!
This lifestyle property is surrounded by abundant bird and wildlife. It is just 15 k’s north of Yass, and an approximate 50-min to Canberra. Approx. 129 acres /52.3 ha of great potential and diversity, undulating granite country , scattered shade trees.
The Homestead
A very stylish and immaculate ‘Hamptons” style home.
Features include:
Light and sunny living room and formal sitting room, open plan kitchen, butler’s pantry, dining with cozy wood fire +spacious informal and formal living rooms, glorious, covered deck.
There are 4 bedrooms, the master has an ensuite with separated WC + under floor heating & WIR, the other 3 bedrooms are segregated at the other end of the house.
Double attached garage with WC, 5 Bay shed, 2 secure stables, workshop + storage.
Large (8mx5m) under cover carport with extra height.
Approx 25 solar panels providing 10.375KWs
There are 11 paddocks, 4 with creek frontage, and laneway system to paddocks,
Enquiries Bernie Johnson 0427394481
View OPEN Saturday 7th & 14th Feb - 11.00 – 11.30pm
Price $ 1,585,000
3 2 1 & 2
The Bronte is one of The Village Building Company’s most sought after home designs, now available within this growing community. Available with three different façade colour options, the Bronte has been designed for modern living, combining practical layout, generous living space and quality inclusions to create a home that’s as comfortable as it is functional. With a strong track record across VBC communities, the Bronte offers buyers the confidence of a design that’s been tried, tested and refined over time.
$185K federal funding to protect Mulligans Flat wildlife from bird u
The federal government will invest $185,000 in Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary to protect the eastern quoll — an endangered native species — from the threat of H5 bird flu.
Australia is the only continent that has remained free from H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza, but bird flu was detected last year in southern elephant seals on Heard Island, a remote sub-Antarctic Australian external territory 4,000 km south-west of Perth.
The government’s investment in Mulligans Flat, the largest box-gum grassy-woodland area managed for conservation in Australia, will be used to install biosecurity elements in enclosures; upgrade wildlife triage and isolation for injured and sick animals; and train sta in biosecurity.
School’s back – so slow down!
Canberrans must slow down in school zones as children return to the classroom, ACT Policing states.
Since the school term started this week, 40km/h speed limits will be in e ect across all ACT school zones. Drivers caught speeding in a school zone can face a fine, incur demerit points, and have their licence suspended.
In 2025, ACT Policing issued 264 fines and 47 cautions to drivers caught speeding in school zones, including one driver who was caught travelling at 89km/h.
The ACT Government has taken a step towards terminating the Crown lease for Big Splash waterpark, with Access Canberra formally notifying the site’s owners that regulatory action is being considered.
Minister for Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry confirmed that the Territory Planning Authority has issued a letter to the owners, advising it is considering terminating the lease.
Big Splash has remained closed for the past two summers, prompting ongoing community frustration and calls for the ACT Government to intervene. The facility has not reopened since being leased to its current operators in 2021.
A petition calling on the government to save Big Splash and take action on the site has attracted strong public support, with more than 2,900 signatures to date.
