Canberra CityNews February 12-18, 2009

cause

Water hoarders risk mozzie fever

By Megan Haggan

DENGUE fever could spread much further south as a result of our water-saving behaviour – and while Canberra’s at “a very low risk”, it’s possible that the dengue mosquito could reach the ACT.

“A major impact of climate change is reduced rainfall, resulting in a dramatic increase in domestic rainwater storage and other forms of water hoarding,” said lead author of a recent study, Dr Michael Kearney, of the Department of Zoology, University of Melbourne.

The study showed that increased water storage could accelerate and expand the mosquito’s range.

“Without due caution with water storage hygiene, this indirect effect of climate change via human adaptation could dramatically re-expand the mosquito’s current range.”

The dengue mosquito was widespread in the 19th century, spreading as far south as Sydney and Perth, but by the late 1960s was restricted to the northern half of Queensland, where it currently resides, thanks in part to the removal of old galvanised tin rainwater tanks and the installation of piped water.

Dr Kearney told “CityNews” that the researchers “did predict that the dengue mozzies could potentially complete six [reproductive] generations per year in Canberra if they were living in a water tank in the sun (compared with over 20 in the Cairns area).

INSIDE

February 12-18, 2009

Since 1993: Volume 15, Number 6

“The nearest historical record of the dengue mozzie is about 50km from the ACT border, at a place called Breadalbane.”

Modern water tanks were insect-proofed with tank screens, which in some States (and the ACT) were a legislative requirement, said Rain Harvesting managing director Gareth Horton.

“If the tank has been installed properly people have nothing to fear,” Mr Horton said.

“Insect-proofing means all pipes holding water should be covered with a non-corrosive screen of not more than 1mm in width to prevent the entry and therefore breeding of mosquitos and other vermin.

“Simply checking your tank screens regularly will provide you with peace of mind that your tank has not become a mosquito breeding ground.”

Mosquitoes breed in still water. To help avoid them, still water around the house (such as in children’s wading pools, pet dishes, birdbaths and pot plants) should be emptied regularly.

Pools should be kept chlorinated, salted or empty, and fish ponds should be kept stocked with fish.

CONTACT US

General manager: Greg Jones 0419 418196, greg@citynews.com.au

Advertising sales executives: Melissa Delfino, 0415 137660

Jonathan Hick, 0415 177345

Sebastien Kriegel, 0438 198701

Advertising sales co-ordinator: Nick Garfoot, 6262 9100, ad@citynews.com.au

Sydney advertising sales: Ad Sales Connect, 02 9439 9929

Adelaide advertising sales: HWR Media, 08 8379 9522

Perth advertising sales: HWR Media, 08 9429 3075

Front cover: Jessica Good, the face of this year’s Vinnies door knock appeal. Story Page 8.

Phone 6262 9100 Fax 6262 9111 GPO Box 2448, Canberra City 2601 www.citynews.com.au

Editor: Ian Meikle ed@citynews.com.au

Senior writer & arts editor: Jorian Gardner, 0415 516286

Lifestyle editor: Megan Haggan, 0411 045592 lifestyle@citynews.com.au

Arts writer: Helen Musa, 0413 466121

Design and photography: Silas Brown, 0412 718086

Designer: Joran Dilucian

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Six-month audit to September 30, 2008

The Canberra Southern Cross Club is proud to host the Marymead and Karinya House Fundraising Dinner

All proceeds will go toward the essential community work of Marymead and Karinya House

Saturday 28 February 2009 7pm Corinna Ballroom, Southern Cross Club Woden Cocktail/Lounge suit

$60 per person (includes three-course meal and entertainment) or $440 for a table of 8

For more information or to make a booking please contact: Jackie Gallagher (02) 6241 8427 jackie.gallagher@karinyahouse.asn.au by 20 February 2009

Little master of the jumping sack

Sack attack… the determined little guy in the pink seems to have the edge on his less-co-ordinated older competitors during a sack race at the Canberra Grammar School’s 80th Anniversary Founders’ Day Picnic. The event featured mini-highland games, a gladiator beam, dads v sons tug of war, limited over cricket matches and music from the school’s choirs and bands.

More photos at www.citynews.com.a u

Grand Re-Opening

Defining Mr Doszpot

School closure promises are all in the past and Steve Doszpot thinks the liberals wasted three years in the last a ssembly. JorIaN GarDNEr discovers that the cool, consummate newcomer isn’t scared to stick his neck out. after all, it’s taken him a long time to have the chance.

THIRD-TIME -lUCK y l iberal Steve Doszpot finally found himself elected to the ACT l egislative Assembly last year.

For years, the IT specialist and sports fanatic had been coveting such a place and now he’s got it. Did he have to pinch himself to make sure it was really happening?

“It really sunk in when I was doing my maiden speech; when I saw all my family and friends in the public gallery and there I was sitting opposite the Government, that’s when it really hit home,” he says.

“It was a defining moment.”

Practice has made perfect: Doszpot is already a consummate performer, batting away difficult questions that a new-to-the-job pollie might trip up on. He also knows his ACT l iberal history: Each term since the l iberals went into Opposition in 2001, a member has crossed the floor to become an independent, the l iberals have, for years, been a road accident that no-one can take their eyes off. As they enter another term in Opposition, will Doszpot be part of the solution, or become the problem itself?

“I think we wasted three years in the last term of Opposition and my colleagues and I are determined to move forward and win government at the next election,” he says.

“That means that we have to show our credentials over the next four years to the community and improve our ability to present policies and initiatives. We want to govern for the whole of Canberra – not just specific interest groups.

“We have some new blood and that’s good and helps recharge the batteries of the people who have been there and have the experience.”

Already Doszpot, the new shadow education minister, seems to be singing from a different songbook. During the election campaign the l iberals hammered the Stanhope Government on school closures and promised to look at re-opening schools.

“In terms of school closures, I think we have already moved on,” says Doszpot. “The only time

that school closures are now being mentioned is to talk about the reliance on this Government’s broken promises. I mean, we are about smaller class sizes, which this Government told us was not in their plan, couldn’t be afforded and so on, and then became the educational platform for the l abor Party.

“Our job is to drive the Government to bring forward new initiatives and, in terms of smaller class sizes specifically, well, we know the current Government is not going to implement those in 2009 – I understand it won’t take place until 2010.

“So, again, what we are trying to do is focus on what the Government’s promises are, when they will be implemented and whether they have been fully costed.”

Doszpot is well known around the Canberra community. Married to Maureen, he is a father of two, who moved here in 1974. He has worked

for the CSIRO, been the ACT general manager for Canon Australia and event director of the Sydney Olympic Games Organising Committee for the ACT. His work has bought him several awards including the Australian Sports Medal. But for now, it’s the start of a new road for Mr Doszpot.

In his maiden speech, eyes wide open, he praised the fact that he had been able to spend some time with other new members in what he called “Assembly kindergarten”, where new pollies learn the ropes, and he hoped that it might bring new directions and “improved co-operation.”

Then, in the next breath, “however, I daresay that this has probably been the idealistic vision of all our predecessors in the previous six assemblies, before the political realities, pragmatism and cynicism kicks in.”

l et’s see how long his eyes stay wide.

Winning word

“TOXIC debt” is the Word of the Year 2008. It was selected from the new words to be included in the annual update of the Macquarie Dictionary Online. Its meaning is defined as something that “although initially acquired as a legitimate business transaction, proves subsequently to be financially worthless, as the subprime loans which precipitated the GFC.”

The people’s choice was “flashpacker” – a backpacker who travels in relative luxury.

For the full list of nominated words and their definitions, visit www.macquariedictionary.com.au

Get organ-ised

MORE than 1000 people are expected to join in the 2009 Terry Connolly ORGANised Walk, which is aimed at raising awareness of organ and tissue donation. Held as part of Organ Donor Awareness Week, the walk starts at Regatta Point and heads clockwise around the lake on Wednesday, February 25 at 6.45am for a 7am official start. Free and not a fund-raising event, the walk is named for the late Supreme Court judge and tissue donor Terry Connolly. Register online at www.giftoflife.com.au.

Printing first

LOCAL printing company CanPrint Communications and Union Offset has become the first in the ACT to be certified under the Australian Forestry Certification Scheme (AFCS) and is able to offer customers the option to use paper that can be traced back to its raw source, a legally logged forest. “More and more customers are demanding certified paper as part of their corporate and social responsibility,” says facility manager Scott Elliott, “We wanted to offer choice and help those customers who want to protect the environment. Certification is the only way we can prove the paper is bona fide and meets Australian standards. It’s a positive step for the country.”

Ballroom blitz

THE Southern Cross Club will open its new Corinna Ballroom (for one of its first public events) for the Marymead and Karinya House fundraising dinner from 7pm on Saturday, February 20. All proceeds of the evening, a three-course meal and entertainment, will go toward the community work of Marymead and Karinya House. Tickets at $60 each (or $440 for a table of eight) are available until February 20 from Erin Pittman on 6162 5824 or at erin.pittman@ marymead.org.au

“Myer has been part of the ACT community for 31 years, and as store managers, we are excited to be working with you to ensure we continue to be exciting, fashionable and inspirational retail destinations for years to come.”

Myer Canberra City

my community

At Myer Canberra City, we are committed to our community through the development of strong local partnerships with organisations such as the Pegasus Foundation, and our sponsorship of the Special Kids Christmas Party and Canberra Racing through the ACT Spring Racing Carnival

my brands

Myer Canberra City now stocks a great range of your favourite brands including PATRICIA FIELDS COZI BY JENNIFER HAWKINS, SACHI and VUE homewares. We have also added many new features to the store such as new scanning gun technology in our Gift Registry department to help make choosing your perfect wish list even easier! Coming later this year WEIGHT WATCHERS and HUDSONS COFFEE instore.

my team

Congratulations to Melanie Saunders on her promotion to Customer Service Selling Manager at Myer Canberra City. Melanie brings with her 23 years of retail experience and a strong passion for customer service.

MYER ACT TRADING HOURS:

MONDAY - WEDNESDAY: 9am - 5.30pm,

THURSDAY: 9am - 5.30pm, FRIDAY: 9am - 9pm, SATURDAY: 9am - 6pm, SUNDAY: 10am - 5pm

Myer Belconnen

my community

At Myer Belconnen, we are committed to our community through the development of strong local partnerships with organisations such as the Spastic Centre, and our sponsorship of the Special Kids Christmas Party and Canberra Racing through the ACT Spring Racing Carnival

my brands

Myer Belconnen now stocks a great range of your favourite brands including WAYNE BY WAYNE COOPER BASQUE, COZI BY JENNIFER HAWKINS, and VUE homewares. We have also added many new features to the store such as a brand new electrical department!

my team

Welcome to Craig Morris our new Merchandise Manager. Craig comes with years of retail experience and looks forward to meeting you soon in store. Also, congratulations to Jill Forshaw from our Estee Lauder counter for being recognised as the ‘number one cosmetic house 2008’ in the ACT.

Myer Tuggeranong

my community

At Myer Tuggeranong, we are committed to our community through the development of strong local partnerships with organisations such as the Cancer Council, and our sponsorship of Canberra Racing through the ACT Spring Racing Carnival

my brands

Myer Tuggeranong now stocks a great range of your favourite brands including CUE TS 14+, WAYNE BY WAYNE COOPER, ESPRIT, BASQUE and COZI BY JENNIFER HAWKINS. We have also added many new features to the store such as a brand new electrical department and GLORIA JEANS Cafe!

my team

Welcome to Katrina Matthews who joins the management team at Myer Tuggeranong. Katrina brings years of experience in retail management and a great enthusiasm for customer service. Also, thanks to the entire store team for your support in fundraising for the Myer Community Fund which has enabled us to help so many local charities.

Family Law Matters

Assisting Grandparents

Grandparents who play an integral role in the lives of their grandchildren should be able to continue to do so even after parents separate. The Family Law Act recognises the importance of this and the Government has recently approved increased resources to help grandparents.

What rights do I have as a grandparent?

Whilst the law focuses on the rights of the child, it is not blind to the distress that loving and supportive grandparents experience when they lose contact with their grandchildren. For this reason, under the Family Law Act, grandparents may be parties to parenting plans and can apply to the Court for parenting orders. The Court can consider grandparents when making orders and when determining a child’s best interests.

How seriously does the Court view the role of grandparents?

The Family Law Act recognises that children benefit from spending time with their grandparents and that close grandparent-grandchild relationships should continue after parents separate. The law acknowledges that grandparents play a vital role in helping children understand who they are and where they come from.

What ‘out of Court’ help is available to grandparents?

Dispute resolution processes (mediation and counseling) through organisations such as Relationships Australia and the Family Relationships Centre may assist parties to reach agreement on parenting matters without the need for litigation. These types of organisations are to receive increased funding, as are Legal Aid Commissions. The Government is also issuing more publications for grandparents and conducting more research.

FREE SEMINAR:

Attend a free family law information seminar at Dobinson Davey Clifford Simpson (18 Kendall Lane, New Acton), Tuesday 17 February 2009, 5:30-6:30pm. Bookings essential: 6212 7690.

cover story

All for a Good cause

By Megan Haggan

GIVING to those in need is good for us, says WIN Television newsreader Jessica Good, who is raising awareness for the St Vincent de Paul Door Knock Appeal.

“St Vinnies asked me about raising awareness of and launching the doorknock, and how could I not, considering the great work that they do?” says Jessica.

“From speaking to St Vinnies, it seems that Canberra people are traditionally really giving, and have a strong moral conscience. Canberra really helps its own, which I find quite endearing.”

A relative newcomer to the ACT (she’s been here nearly 18 months), she feels that Canberrans have been welcoming, and anticipates that they will give generously to the appeal.

“It’s nice to be welcomed into such an important community event, to be able to do something good for the community.”

Volunteers for Vinnies’ Door Knock Appeal will be knocking on doors for donations on weekends until March 1.

“There’s a quote I like, from the book ‘Rich Dad Poor Dad’ [by Robert Kyoksaki and Sharon l echter]: it says that you should always give when you can least afford it,” Jessica told “CityNews”.

“This teaches you the value of money – and not only that, when you do have more money and times are good again, it’s easier to keep giving.”

Jessica says that in this thriving city, it’s easy for people in need to slip between the cracks and remain unnoticed by the community at large.

“It’s not in your face, but homelessness and need exists: last year, St Vincent’s helped 40,000 people in the Canberra region, which is staggering when you think about it,” she says.

“The good thing is that every single cent raised goes to the community: it doesn’t go to admin, but to support services and direct financial assistance. And this year, in the wake of the terrible bushfire trag-

edy in Victoria, some of the funds will be directed to helping victims there.”

Jessica says that the need for services like those provided by Vinnies has increased dramatically due to the economic climate.

“It’s not just low-income earners affected any more: middle-income earners are also coming in needing help with bills and mortgage payments,” she says.

“The demand for charity services increased last year and it certainly will again this year as the financial meltdown gets worse. That’s why the doorknock is more important than ever.

“No matter how small the donation, it can help somebody.”

Site Inspection @ The Royal Australian Mint

When: Wednesday 25 February Time: 3:30pm to 5pm

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Future Directions Debate – Planners Play God too often

When: Thursday 26 February

Where: Club Level, Uni Pub, London Circuit Canberra City Time: 6pm to 8pm

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Site Inspection @ Attorney General’s Department Barton

When: Wednesday 18 March Time: 3:30pm to 5pm

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Division Lunch

Topic: Property Market Outlook 2009

Guest speakers: Craig James, Chief Equities Economist, Commonwealth Bank of Australia; Kevin Stanley, Regional Director Australia New Zealand, CB Richard Ellis and Cameron Kusher, Senior Research Analyst, RP Data

When: Thursday 19 March Time: 12pm to 2pm

Venue: Hotel Realm, Barton

Proudly sponsored by Commonwealth Bank of Australia

For more information on upcoming events, membership or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Antoinette Perera on 02 6248 6902 or email Aperera@propertyoz.com.au

St Vincent de Paul aims to raise $400,000. l ast year donations totalled $350,000.

l ast year, the charity spent $1.2 million on food and direct financial assistance, and $3.5 million on service support, to assist the local community.

Jessica says that Canberrans can donate their time to help, as well.

“They desperately need more volunteers: we’re aiming to doorknock 115,000 homes, so the more people we have, the better.”

For more information, visit www.stvincanb.com.au or call 6282 2722.

“CityNews” is a proud sponsor of the door knock.

Valentine’sDay

for couples; escape into an elegant world of ne food; candlelight & chocolate at Flint, Parlour & Du Jour & nish with a romantic sleepover at the Diamant Hotel. If you’re feeling energetic you need only to contact Body to Burn for a training session tailored for two!

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Intimate surroundings, seductive music, delectable tapas, intoxicating cocktails & delightful wines will complete the perfect environment to celebrate Valentine’s Day. The menu will include some specically designed treats to help ignite the passion. A special guest DJ will provide the soundtrack to the evening & as always the alcohol will taste especially good with the addition of being able to help remove the inhibitions.

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Rigours of reflection

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ONE of the reasons that Kevin Rudd’s stimulus package should not be forced through the parliament is that federal parliamentarians “should take time for reflection”. Political commentator John Warhurst put this proposition to Alex Sloane on ABC local radio following a 5am sitting of the House of Representatives. The package was forced through in the same sitting day (and night) that it was introduced. Reflection is an important issue, but the struggle for political advantage cannot be dismissed.

Bulldozing any item through parliament carries significant risk for our political system. Although MPs had debated all night, the Government used its numbers to apply the gag. The flipside is that the Government must act decisively as it finds itself in extraordinary circumstances generated by the international financial situation. The Prime Minister and Treasurer understand that every day of delay in any package is a day of lost opportunity to turn the situation around.

The global economic crisis has generated a downward spiral and all MPs understand that action must be taken to halt the decline and avoid the associated loss of jobs, income and the pain that goes with recession. The difficulty is that there is no definitive answer to what is the best solution. Malcolm Turnbull has the advantage of Opposition to simply oppose the package and argue tax cuts as the alternative.

Prof Warhurst’s suggestion of time for

By Michael Moore

reflection was delivered by the Senate. This situation emphasises yet again the importance of having a strong crossbench to ensure the Senate can play its role as a house of review. The Greens l eader, Bob Brown, made it abundantly clear that the Senate should deal with the issue quickly. However, he was also determined that it should conduct an enquiry to ensure that the detail of the “mini budget” would be examined. The question about how much time should be allowed for such reflection is raised by the brevity of the enquiry.

The community expects accountability and this comes with proper scrutiny. However, it is also important that the Government can be responsive in a crisis. The irony of l abor pushing this through the parliament and having the conservatives scream about not having enough time cannot be missed. It is not so long ago that the shoe was on the other foot.

The NT intervention provides just one of many examples.

But how much do MPs actually reflect on such things even when they have the time? In this case, we know that the conservatives had already made up their mind to oppose. The crossbenchers in the Senate largely have their hands tied as they are reluctant to oppose money bills. However, $42 billion with the authorisa-

tion to spend around $200 billion is a great deal of money and should be examined closely.

There is political advantage for the Coalition in arguing that scrutiny is critical and the package is simply wrong as it plunges us into debt. Unfortunately for them, it is likely to be outweighed for the vast majority who are looking forward to the $950 bonus. There will also be other political opportunities for an astute l abor Party that is likely to be in a position to milk this situation for years.

In opposing the package, the Opposition is opposing all the infrastructure elements including housing and schools. If l abor gets its message out, and they have started well, once a notice goes up on a school identifying the expenditure of Commonwealth funds it will become a reminder that the Conservatives tried to stop “the upgrade of our schools”.

The l iberals and Nationals generally have public recognition of their ability to manage community money. However, with the economic circumstances as they are it is important to have a government that will act decisively. John Howard demonstrated his decisiveness in responding to the Port Arthur massacre with stringent gun laws. Kevin Rudd now has the opportunity to demonstrate his economic management in responding to this crisis.

Michael Moore is a former independent member of the ACT Legislative Assembly and as minister for health.

Sunday 1 March 10.00am – 4.00pm Government House, Dunrossil Drive, Yarralumla Entry: $10 adult, $8 concession and $20 families

Treat yourself or your family to a rare chance to roam the magnificent 54 hectare gardens and take a glimpse inside the historic house itself. Picnic on the majestic lawns or enjoy the finest local produce at the food and beverage stalls. Entertainment includes the National Capital Orchestra, Questacon, Bush Dancers, the Strangeweather Gospel Choir plus activities galore for the kids!

www.gg.gov.au

Proceeds from the event will support The Smith Family thesmithfamily.com.au

mum in the city

Now, I do like to be beside the seaside

briefly Appeal donation

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OVER the years, I’ve come to think of Australia as divided up into two types of people.

Firstly, there are those who love summer. They love the great outdoors, the beach, barbecues, sport, fishing and every other activity under the sun and, if they are sensible, the greasy feel of 30+ sunscreen.

Then there are those of us whose approach to summer is heat avoidance.

For us, summer is about simple, nonenergetic pleasures such as chilling out in dark and over-air-conditioned movie theatres, or in restful bookshops and coffee shops with comfy couches as we take time out from the exertions of summertime sales.

Falling into the second category, I have long been content to watch the holiday migration of friends and colleagues who head out of Canberra and down to the coast for weeks of outdoor fun.

They return seemingly refreshed and renewed, but I’ve never been tempted to follow their example. Even with two young children, I’ve preferred to hang out in halfdeserted Canberra. Well, at least until this summer.

For children, the lure of the beach is pretty irresistible, as are their powers of persuasion on their parents.

So Christmas Eve saw us heading down

By Sonya Fladun

to the coast for what I figured would be a pretty intensive dose of sunburn, horrendous misadventures and constant, exhausting child wrangling. But it actually wasn’t half bad!

To the uninitiated (like me), the beach holiday might seem to be all about the kids, but the truth is, it’s really for parents.

The motels are child friendly, the restaurants and cafes are mostly set up to accommodate the needs of families and, if you do your research, you can find some really child-safe, kiddie beaches (still requiring parental vigilance, of course) that come complete with Mr Whippy Vans.

It offers a chance to kick back on a beach towel or deck chair, surrounded by multiple beach umbrellas and cool drinks. you can catch up on reading novels and browse through those magazines that you have been collecting, but not read, all year.

The kids entertain themselves, building sand castles, flying kites, meeting other children, paddling between the flags, collecting seashells, feeding already overweight seagulls before eventually falling exhausted into their beds.

yep, parental bliss – or pretty close to it.

The ACT Government will contribute $300,000 to the Victorian bushfire emergency appeal and facilitate fundraising at the Canberra Day celebrations on March 9. The ACT has also sent a taskforce of 10 tankers and 90 emergency services personnel including firefighters, two intensive care paramedics and a team of state emergency service volunteers. Ten ACT police are in Victoria as part of a 16person AFP victim identification team.

Cop shop 24/7

THE Gungahlin police station is now operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The extended hours bring the station into line with its emergency partners – ACT Fire Brigade and ACT Ambulance Service – who currently maintain a 24-hour presence at the Joint Emergency Services Centre (JESC).

Good sports

SETANTA Sports, a leading international sports cable channel, is now available on TransACT’s subscription TV service. It features international sports events such the 2009 RBS Six Nations Rugby Union Championship and the English FA Cup competition. TransACT CEO Ivan Slavich said: “This is a substantial addition to our sports programming and when the cost of this channel is added to the cost of TransACT’s Essentials subscription package, which is $27 per month, TransACT customers get the best value entertainment offering in the market.”

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Sight for more eyes

CANBERRANS are being urged to donate their old glasses during OneSight Week (from Monday, February 15 to Sunday, February 22) to help Australians and people overseas who don’t have access to eye care.

OPSM, l aubman & Pank, Budget Eyewear, Bright Eyes Sunglasses and Sunglass Hut will collect unwanted spectacles and cash donations. They hope to collect 100,000 pairs of glasses Australia-wide.

According to a spokesperson from OPSM Canberra Centre, many people around the world with vision problems can be easily helped.

“Poor vision impedes a child’s ability to learn in school, and robs an adult of independence, mobility and quality of life,” she said.

“Many of the everyday activities that we take for granted, such as reading a book, watching TV or going to school or work are just not possible for people who have exceptionally poor eyesight and who lack the means or opportunity to seek professional help.”

More than 250 million people worldwide have poor vision due to lack of access to eye examinations and glasses.

The most common cause of visual impairment is uncorrected refractive error (short-sightedness, long-sightedness, presbyopia and astigmatism), which can be corrected simply by testing and spectacles.

“Clear vision is a basic right – not a luxury – and the fact that Canberra residents have the opportunity to provide the gift of sight to those who need it is fantastic,” she said.

– Megan Haggan

Venuti

going to the ball

VIVACIOUS entertainer Maria Venuti (pictured) aims to give Canberrans a Valentine’s Day to remember! She is starring at the annual masquerade, black tie Valentine’s Day Charity Ball at the National Convention Centre, organised by Richard Luton Properties, with profits going to The Heart Foundation (ACT).

“It’s the evening when Canberra really shows a whole lot of heart and soul, raises some much-needed money for a worthy charity and has a great night out,” said Richard Luton. Tickets at $150 each are available from events@luton.com.au or call Justine Simonds on 6163 5421.

achieves training excellence gold

WISDOM, a local registered training organisation, has achieved the highest possible level of training excellence within Australia –Training Excellence Gold Accreditation.

WISDOM is the only private sector registered training organisation (RTO) nationwide to achieve this new level of accreditation. It is a significant achievement, considering that there are only eight out of 4,400 RTOs in Australia that have been accredited with this gold level status.

We are dedicated to providing outstanding, real world outcomes for our clients, contact us to find out more.

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Crisis? What crisis?

CANBERRA’S public sector workers with well-paid and safely protected jobs now buttressed by all the extra cash coming their way must be the luckiest people in Australia because it’s times like this, when real estate and share prices are so low, when future fortunes are made.

But Australia had better be heading into recession because, with all the money being poured into the economy, if it turns out we are not as depressed as the Government thinks our problem won’t be the just-missed recession but how to contain runaway inflation.

For an economy where unemployment is still only around five per cent, for the Federal Government to be acting like this just shows how spooked it must be, especially as it wasn’t so long ago that five per cent unemployment was considered to be as low as it could go. To put this into perspective, former Prime Minister Paul Keating won an election with unemployment at 11 per cent.

In Canberra, it’s even lower which is why, while the ACT Government is trying to talk up the recessionary fears lest they miss out on our share of the Rudd Government’s handouts, we have local business leaders warning us not to forget about our skills shortage.

With all the Government rescue

INvEStING

By Alex Dunnin

money floating around it’s also no wonder State governments are doing all they can to scare us into thinking the world is about to end. Reinforcing the Machiavellian double take, most of our so-called financial crisis effect in Canberra is due to lost investment income from our investment funds, most of which wasn’t money that was spent on services anyway.

However, while the Government thinks the economy is about to go into freefall, market economists don’t quite agree, according to feedback from the “Financial Standard’s” annual Chief Economists Breakfast in Sydney and Melbourne.

Craig James, chief equities economist at Commonwealth Securities, said he doesn’t even expect Australia to dip into recession at all because we are still being held up by the residual impact of the resources boom, the lift in our terms of trade and the population boom we are experiencing.

Shane Oliver, chief economist and investment strategist at AMP Capital Investors said that while we’ll feel like we’re in a recession we may

not actually get there. He said unemployment will obviously rise, but by the end of year we should be seeing positive growth return.

The leading economist Don Stammer was similarly upbeat saying that by year’s end we should see the uplift, largely because Australia is one of the few countries where interest rates can be so relied on to do their job.

However, Tony Pensabene, chief economist from the Australian Industry Group, was more downcast as he warned that the problem may not be so much the recession, but businesses having to learn how to operate in much slower conditions to what they were used to. The flow-on effects of businesses and consumers being overly cautious and reluctant to invest could take years to unwind.

Bringing all this together means that while the government and the nation’s chief economists expect things to be bad, they also expect the Government stimulus packages to do their job. We just have to patient enough to wait for the results because we’ll soon need all that extra money to pay off the Government debt we are now racking up.

Alex Dunnin is the director of research and editorial at the Rainmaker group.

Don’t stop training

“DESPITE the economic downturn and subsequent job cuts, training is being ramped up in the ACT,” said Pam Chilman, of the AMC Training Centre at Philip.

She said individuals were attending training to ensure their continued employment or to find new positions.

The business community also understood the importance of keeping their current employees skilled in order to find efficiencies with reduced staff numbers. And, despite being affected by Budget cuts, Government, too, is continuing to train its employees as part of its learning and development requirements.

AMC has run a one-day Excel course,

as part of new panel arrangements in place for ACT Government employees that began this month.

“It is pleasing to see education continuing during these trying times,” said Ms Chilman. “Having been through the economic downturn during the early ‘90s, training is often cut, perceived to be a cost saving. However, avoiding key training can have the opposite effect if staff are not skilled on products they need to operate effectively.”

WHAT is the price of confidence? Well, last week it was $42 billion as the Federal Government’s “shock and awe” tactic was unleashed. The sharemarket pretty much was unfazed because confidence for the market is going to come from somewhere else: the collective self-interest of most investors.

While the Government is hoping that the right people and areas of the economy are going to find enough incentive to engender this self-interest, clues for the success of global stimulus, in which Australia has now joined with vigour, is going to come first from where all this started: far from our shores.

Over the last few weeks, a small semblance of confidence is showing up where you want it in the so called lead indicators, the Baltic Dry Index.

It’s a shipping and trade index created by the l ondon-based Baltic Exchange that measures changes in the cost to transport raw materials such as metals, grains and fossil fuels by sea.

Changes in the Baltic Dry Index can give investors insight into global supply and demand trends. This change is often considered a leading indicator of future economic growth (if the index is rising) or contraction (index is

By Joe Cardone

falling) because the goods shipped are raw, pre-production material, which is typically an area with very low levels of speculation. Therefore, its usefulness lies in its “predictive” nature in assessing global supply and demand trends in raw materials and, as such, is a leading indicator of economic activity as opposed to a lagging indicator, which is the basis of a lot of economic data. The direction of our sharemarket as indicated by the ASX200 (red line) has followed an uncomfortable path lead by the Baltic Dry Index (blue line). And it has been all down since September. Having spent the best part of three months going sideways with no further calamitous fall, the Baltic Dry Index is starting to show signs of life. Don’t expect some miraculous recovery in our market, but if we have to follow something, a widely watched and globally significant indicator for clues about the success of self-interest inducing stimulus is a good place to start.

At the Diabetes ACT cocktail party, Yarralumla

Richard Luton Properties proudly present their annual Valentine’s Day Charity Ball with all profits going to The Heart Foundation ACT

Date Saturday 14th February 2009

Venue The Ballroom, The National Convention Centre, Canberra

Time 6.30pm Pre-dinner drinks in the Ballroom Foyer

Tickets $150 per person via events@luton.com.au

or call Justine Simonds on 02 6163 5421

Dress Formal / Masquerade

Entertainment provided by ‘Casual Sets’

Major Auction Item* 2 tickets to New York with 5 nights

accommodation at a 5 star hotel in New York

* reserve price

Live and Silent Auctions

citylife

Love of the Ludicrous

BY sheer chance, I have watched my home DVD copy of Alfred Hitchcock’s “The 39 Steps” twice in the last six months. This prepared me well for a chat to director Maria Aitken in New York, where she had just opened the play of the same name with a new star in a new Broadway theatre that looks like “a little jewel box.”

Aitken, like me, is a great fan of the 1935 Hitchcock film on which the play is based and assures Canberra audiences that what she and playwright Patrick Barlow have done with the famous movie is “a loving treatment of it,” with 50 per cent of the dialogue drawn straight from that classic comedy thriller. Loving, maybe, but the play, which won the 2007 Olivier Award for Best New Comedy, is also a “a joke about that film”. Played by four actors with three trunks of costumes, it “achieves the impossible.”

Of course, Hitchcock’s film was in its turn adapted from the 1915 novel by John Buchan, but in Buchan’s novel the hero Richard Hannay adopts all sorts of improbable disguises, whereas Robert Donat in the movie never moves out of his tweeds. Also,

By Helen Musa

Buchan had no women in his novel whereas Hitchcock introduced a love interest.

Though there is a nod to Buchan in the first two minutes, this is really a sophisticated theatrical piece that becomes “a very eclectic comedy”.

Aitken is adamant that although she had a lot to say about what went where, the adaptation is by Barlow – something of a cult figure in London as the inventor of a show about a fictional theatre company with only two players. Four actors is sheer luxury.

Aitken created her prototype Australian production, now copied by her assistants, at the Melbourne Theatre Company. It pleases her that “a wonderful girl, Helen Christinsen”, is still starring in the female roles, but she doesn’t know the newer actors, Mark Pegler as Hannay, with Jo Turner and Drew Forsythe as the sidekick comedians.

“But you’ll definitely see my production,” Aitken says, explaining that the impression is something like a musical, in that it’s all tied to a soundtrack and the actors have to move with the precision of dancers.

It’s survived the economic crisis in New York, because it’s “like a wartime play. People want to go out and have a laugh.” Also, it looks as if it’s done with very little with just some actors, trunks and ladders, though backstage, lunacy prevails. “I think people are so tired of tril lion dollar sets,” Aitken asserts.

In Aitken’s mind, “The 39 Steps” begins with the second-rate lead ing man in a ratty little theatre company saying to himself: “I could do Robert Donat”, hiring a girl to be his opposite number and a couple of vaudevillians to do the rest, then embarking on the exotic story of the naïve Hannay caught up in a spy drama that takes him from London to Scotland and back.

“It’s all ludicrous,” Aitken says.

“The 39 Steps” is at the Canberra Theatre Playhouse from March 4-14.

Brace for noisy future

NEVER mind the global financial crisis, this planet is on the verge of another much nastier, much more far-reaching problem that will ultimately affect every person on the planet.

Brace yourself for the Global Percussion Crisis; we are about to be overrun by drummers. Yes I’m talking about those people who sit behind drum kits bashing the hell out of them – and who speak in no other language than a series of grunts.

In the first instance, you can thank a little

Brace yourself, says mark PartoN, for the Global Percussion Crisis; we are about to be overrun by drummers.

computer game called “Guitar Hero, World Tour”. The original “Guitar Hero” featured just the guitar. The game comes with this pretend guitar thing that you plug into the console and the screen tells you which notes to play on it. There are no strings, just a series of buttons.

A night of glitter and glamour showcasing some of the brilliant performances seen during 2008 SPECIAL GUEST PRESENTER JON ENGLISH

Providing recognition of the enormous contribution made by non-professional groups to the artistic life of Australia and in particular, of Canberra and the region.

SATURDAY 21st FEBRUARY 2009 – 7PM THE CANBERRA THEATRE www.catawards.com.au

Bookings: 62752700 Or online www.canberraticketing.com.au

The new version of the game also features drums. You can sit down behind this mock drum kit and the game tells you which drums to hit. Unlike the “guitar”, the drumming version actually genuinely mirrors real drumming. If you can play “Eye of the Tiger” on the hard level on the drums on “Guitar Hero” you can pretty much play the drums to “Eye of the Tiger”.

We are set to see a

generation of teenagers who learn the drums on “Guitar Hero” and make the obvious progression to a drum kit in the garage and then take it out into the big wide world.

Can the world ever be ready for a Global Percussion Crisis? Matt, from Better Music at Phillip, told me he’s already noticed an increase in the demand for basic drum kits. We both fear that the big rush is still to come. In 2010, the musical wanted ads won’t be for bands looking for drummers, they will be for drummers looking for bands!

Joe Gleason is the drummer with Canberra pop/rock outfit East Coast Mendez and a keen “Guitar Hero World Tour” drummer. He’s very excited about the prospect of this world musical shift.

“There will come a time when drummer jokes become politically incorrect,” he said. “I see this as being as positive as the leadership change in the US.”

Several leading Canberra singers and guitarists declined to comment, but looked suitably unimpressed.

In Australia, there is one man who is ultimately responsible for the onset of the percussion crisis. Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, this is all your fault. Your $1000 handouts in December have financed this vile musical disease.

I hope you can sleep at night, though if one of those young drummers lives close by in Deakin, you probably won’t.

If you can play “Eye of the Tiger” on the hard level on the drums on “Guitar Hero” you can pretty much play the drums to “Eye of the Tiger”.

CANBERRA MUSEUM AND GALLERY

Cnr London Circuit and Civic Square Canberra City

Ocean to Outback

AUSTRALIAN LANDSCAPE PAINTING 1850–1950

The National Gallery of Australia’s 25th Anniversary Travelling Exhibition

13 February - 17 May 2009

This travelling exhibition of treasured works from the National Collection celebrates the rich history of landscape painting in Australia. Ocean to Outback has been curated by National Gallery of Australia Director, Ron Radford AM.

Open: Tuesday - Friday 10am–5pm Saturday and Sunday 12noon–5pm Telephone: 6207 3968

The exhibition Ocean to Outback is proudly supported by the National Gallery of Australia Council Exhibitions Fund.

Gutsy, uncompromising and entertaining

By Dougal Macdonald

COURT files slated for destruction dealing with the Wineville Chicken Coop case led writer J. Michael Straczynsk i to build a narrative powerhouse and his associated research into the period (late ‘20s), place (Los Angeles) and social environment (police department abuse of authority) turned up Christine Collins’s well-documented search for nine-year-old Walter who disappeared in March, 1928.

Clint Eastwood directed Straczynski’s screenplay mating those two real-life data sources into this gutsy, uncompromising and totally entertaining film.

“Changeling” is explicit in telling the story of Christine’s frustrated battle to convince the LAPD that the child delivered to her after a five-month search was not Walter. Tangled in that main dramatic thread is the ethical barrenness of a police department which, with neither compunction nor paperwork, delivered her to the State psychiatric hospital when her insistence began to make waves in the media.

John Malkovich plays a broadcasting churchman for whom Christine became the main lever in his crusade to overturn entrenched police malpractices in the city.

Angelina Jolie is simply splendid as Christine, subordinating her beauty to deliver a careful

portrayal ranging across a wide emotional range in a brilliantly dynamic performance of a single, working-class mother. Colm Feore is the reptilian, self-serving police chief and Jeffrey Donovan is uncompromising as a police captain perverting the evidence. Michael Kelly is the saturnine Detective Ybarra who found a trail leading to gruesome discoveries. Jason Butler Harner is scary as the murderous nutter who put them there.

“Changeling” is intelligent, well-crafted cinema that will challenge your emotions and invite your deep involvement with its story. You’ll go far to find better than that.

At all Canberra cinemas

IN Gavin O’Connor’s violent film about police corruption in New York, Francis Tierney Sr (Jon Voight) holds high rank in the NYPD. His elder son Franky (Noah Emmerich) commands the 31st precinct where his brother Ray (Edward Norton) and Jimmy (Colin Farrell), married to their sister, are detectives.

When four of the 31st die in a shoot-out, their colleagues go on the rampage. The film examines the police as a family, some honorable, others corrupted by the scope their profession offers for wickedness, from robbing a corner store to

beating witnesses who may know but are not saying or don’t know so can’t say, and the part the Tierneys play in it.

Filmed with gritty visual style, high realism and copious profanity, “Pride and Glory” grips the senses and compels our involvement. Perhaps too long at 130 minutes, its strong plot and well-performed characterisations nevertheless provide good value.

At Hoyts

“TRANSPORTER 3” (M)

ONCE again, stone-faced Jason Statham plays Frank Martin the Transporter who lives by delivering low-volume, high-value packages of unspecified contents, no questions asked, all care but no responsibility.

This time Frank’s client is Johnson (Robert Knepper) an environmental villain who, having removed Frank’s concealed firearms from his German muscle car, for defence leaves him with only kick-boxing skills and strong smarts. The run is from Marseilles to Budapest. The package is Valentine ( Natalya Rudakova), a fetching gamine redhead whom Johnson has wired to explode if she moves more than 75 feet from the car. Frank wears an identical device.

The tissue-thin plot matters little because the film’s true purpose is to show Frank performing vigorous and cunning stunts such as punching out Johnson’s henchmen or driving in truly imaginative situations. Producer/writer Luc Besson knows it’s a no-brainer, which doesn’t greatly matter because it is also spectacularly good fun.

At Dendy and Hoyts

fabulous foccacias!

By Wendy Johnson

FOCCACIAS. They’re everywhere. However, great foccacias aren’t, so I was delighted to pop by a new eatery in the city and bite into one that’s up there with the best. I had landed at Deja Brew, a tiny spot with a “hip” fit out and an outdoor area positioned under leafy, mature trees offering welcoming shade on a stifling summer day.

Deja Brew is jointly owned by Rod De andrade and Ben Bigenill, both with years of hospitality under their belts (including at Lisboa Café in Woden before it was sold).

Twenty kinds of focaccias will rotate on the small, but carefully designed, interesting menu, with some wildly popular ones (including “The Boeing”, which I enjoyed) permanent fixtures.

The foccacias are great value at $7. Mine featured chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, avocado and cream cheese, but before you think “been there, done that” remember that Deja Brew’s competitive edge is its quality: The bread is baked fresh using quality flour from Mosaics Bakery; the tasty organic chicken breast, cooked Portuguese style (reflecting Rod’s heritage); the sundried tomatoes packed with flavor and the hand-picked fruits and vegetables used at Deja Brew, and the cream cheese is, well, super creamy.

Another regular focaccia, by popular demand, is the vegetarian – loaded with healthy pumpkin, eggplant, zucchini,

roasted capsicum and a feta-basil pesto.

Deja Brew’s dressings and mayos are all hand made. If foccacia isn’t “your thing” try the Caesar with poached chicken and anchovy oil dressing (not too strong). Fruit salads are made daily and are a great option in the heat of the Canberra summer. You wouldn’t dare open an eatery with “brew” in its name unless you were confident about the quality of your coffee and Deja Brew is. It’s a top Schibello blend and Rod and Ben ensure their baristas earn the right to operate the gleaming new, state-ofthe-art coffee machine. “It’s about extensive training and experience,” says Rod. “We want every coffee to be an ‘experience’.”

My cappuccino was just that – creamy and robust, but without that bitter taste that can stay with you for hours after a bad coffee. I could easily have had another cup

and am convinced the coffee will be a big draw card.

Deja Brew opens at 7am with an inviting breakfast menu of muffins, banana bread and croissants made by Ben’s mum, Mary-Ann Bigenill, who runs an operation affectionately called “Mama’s Cakes”. Blackboard specials including quiche with a chive and hollandaise sauce and banana pancakes with Canadian maple syrup – the “best in the world” says Rod.

Deja Brew’s décor is inviting. Light green stools complement the funky wallpaper and light fixtures. The square white tables and citrus orange seats outside are close to the fountain just outside the Canberra Centre (beside David Jones).

Deja Brew, in City Walk, is a great place for a leisurely coffee or a quick bite to eat. Open 7am to 4pm, Monday to Saturday.

the rise and rise of Nora heysen

VERY nearly crippled artistically by having the famous painter Hans Heysen as her father, Nora Heysen rose above this combined advantage and disadvantage to become the first woman to win the Archibald Prize and the first official female war artist in this country.

By the time of her death at the age of 93 in 2003, she had won an Australia Council Emeritus Medal, an Order of Australia, and been the subject of a major retrospective by curator Lou Klepac.

This beautifully produced CD traces, though interviews, family photographs and above all, paintings from her childhood in her father’s studio at Hahndorf, SA. It explores her early love of portrait painting and her meetings with women of significance such as Anna Pavlova, Helen Keller and Nellie Melba, who was the first person to buy a painting from her.

After winning a thousand-pound award, she headed to London with her father, studied at largely conservative schools of art and befriended descendants of the French Impressionist Camille Pissarro, who encouraged her to use colour and light.

Critical rejection in London led to depression, so after travelling to Paris and Italy she returned to Australia in the late ‘30s, eventually settling in Sydney, where she found herself in the midst of a controversial clash between traditionalists and modernists. She set up a studio in Elizabeth Bay, espousing many of the

DVD

“Of Art and Men: Nora Heysen” A film by Eugene Schlusser, script by Daniel Tilly, produced in association with Film Australia. Reviewed by Helen Musa

principles of feminism, and signed up for the forces in World War II.

While she was ridiculed as “the flower painter turned war artist,” her persistence saw her eventually posted to New Guinea, where she produced many paintings and drawings of servicemen, tropical flowers and the local people.

Interviewed at length at her home in Hunters Hill, Sydney, she comes across as a mixture of tough frankness and sensitivity. Nora Heysen was rediscovered in the 1990s as an important artist in her own right, thus dying in the certain knowledge that the life-long conflict between father and daughter had been overcome.

Now skin goes

Trilogy Age Proof Nutrient Plus Firming Serum, $42.95 (carbon neutral and fair trading).

ACCORDING to Catherine de Groot, co-director of the Trilogy skincare brand, awareness of our impact on the environment and the need to commit to a more ecologically sensitive lifestyle has been growing rapidly over the last 10 years.

“We first saw this trend becoming evident with food, and it has since crossed over into the cosmetics and skincare industry as customers increasingly seek out natural and organic alternatives,” Catherine said.

Natural and organic products were now mainstream, she said – and they were the fastest-growing category in skincare.

“Customers are seeking out natural alternatives for two main reasons they no longer wish to put

Naked to the rescue

has invented a bag organiser that puts an end to the confusion. It’s a clear handbag liner that can be used to store a handbag’s contents – then when women change their bag, they simply need to remove the liner.

It’s suitable for changing between handbags or even for keeping track of essentials in nappy bags and gym bags.

Borne Naked is available in two sizes, for $24.95 or $29.95, from fashion retailers or from www.borne.com.au.

chemicals on their skin, and they are keen to support companies which have sustainable business practices.”

Fair trade is also increasingly important to Australians, she said.

When choosing beauty products, Catherine suggested:

• Look carefully at the list of ingredients on a product’s packaging – a single natural ingredient doesn’t mean the product is natural;

• Check that products claiming to be organic have a quality seal from an internationally accredited organisation;

• Consider whether the brand is committed to ethical, cultural and environmental sustainability; and

• Remember that if what’s on offer seems to be too good to be true price-wise, it probably is!

So You Think You Can Dance Australia

Sunday, SC Ten, 7.30pm

These kids have made it to the top 20, so we know they can dance. But is there one that stands out from the crowd? While judges Jason Coleman, Bonnie Lythgoe (above) and Matt Lee will offer their opinions, the voting is in the hands of the public. So whether your favourite stays or goes home is now up to you.

Underbelly: A Tale Of Two Cities

Monday, WIN, 8.30pm

The first series of Underbelly was surrounded by controversy. This time around the hype is significantly less, but with some of Australia’s best-known actors signing up (Matthew Newton, above, Roy Billing, Kate Ritchie and John Woods to name a few) this prequel may just make it to the No. 1 spot. Expect all the gung-ho, brutal violence and graphic sex scenes from the first series.

Australia’s Got Talent

Wednesday, Prime, 7.30pm

In between parading her latest rugby player-turnedmodel beau, Danii Minogue (above) has also found the time to honour her judging role in the third season of this popular reality series. Minogue and cojudges Red Symons and Tom Burlinson continue to work their way through the heats and must decide which contestants will make it through to the semi-finals.

SundAy, 15 m ondAy, 16

6.00 At The Movies. (R, S) 6.30 The Einstein Factor. (S) 7.00 News. (S) 7.30 Wild Caribbean: Reefs And Wrecks. (G, S) 8.25 News. (S) 8.30 Cranford. The theft of a leg of mutton starts a chain of events that leads to trouble for one family. Dr Harrison’s friend Jack persuades him to declare his affections for Sophy, but then plays a cruel trick. (G, S) 9.25 Compass: Billy Graham Down Under. (G, S) 9.55 Roberto Giordano: From One World To Another. (G, R, S) 11.50 Movie: Carrington VC. (1955) (B&W, PG, R, S)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 Sunday Night. (S) 7.30 Border Security – Australia’s Front Line. (PG, S) 8.00 Triple Zero Heroes. (PG, S) 8.30 City Homicide. After a young man falls to his death from an apartment balcony, Homicide’s investigation leads to a new-age religious pastor and a prestigious law firm. (M, S) 9.30 Bones. Brennan decides to give online dating a try and ends up the target of a shooting. (M, R, S) 11.30 Air Crash Investigations: Panic Over The Pacific. (PG, R)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 Domestic Blitz. (PG, S) 7.30 Cricket. Twenty20 International. Australia v New Zealand. From the SCG. Commentary from Mark Nicholas, Mark Taylor, Ian Healy and Michael Slater. (S)

6.00 Landline Extra. (R, S) 6.30 Talking Heads. (G, S) 7.00 News. (S) 7.30 The 7.30 Report. (S) 8.00 Australian Story. Former Olympic swimming champion Susie O’Neill and her husband, Dr Cliff Fairley, tackle avoidable blindness in Central Australia. (S) 8.30 Four Corners. (S) 9.20 Media Watch. Hosted by Jonathan Holmes. (S) 9.35 Stephen Fry: The Secret Life Of The Manic Depressive. Part 2 of 2. (MA15+, S) 11.05 Lateline Business. (S) 11.35 Death Of A Nation. (M, S)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 Today Tonight. (S) 7.00 Home And Away. (PG, S) 7.30 How I Met Your Mother. (PG, S) 8.30 Desperate Housewives. Bree’s estranged daughter, Danielle, returns to Wisteria Lane. Gaby and Susan find themselves embroiled in a catfight. Much to her chagrin, Lynette comes home to find Tom and Dave have formed a garage band. (M, S) 9.30 Brothers & Sisters. Holly pushes Saul and Sarah to their limits. (M, S) 11.20 30 Rock. (PG) 11.45 Last Comic Standing. (M)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 WIN News. (S) 7.00 A Current Affair. (S) 7.30 Two And A Half Men. (PG, S) 8.00 Customs. (PG, S) 8.30 Underbelly: A Tale Of Two Cities. A beautiful young Kiwi, Alison Dine, becomes Terry Clark’s lover and most inventive drug courier. (M, S) 9.30 Aussie Ladette To Lady. As Rosemary and Gill of the Eggleston Hall finishing school in London await the arrival of their new class of Aussie girls. (M, S) 11.30 Just Shoot Me! (PG)

Tibet: Murder In The Snow

Thursday, SBS, 8.30pm

Every year, many young Tibetans risk their lives to cross the Indian border illegally to meet their spiritual leader. This documentary tells the horrific story of a teenage nun, Kelsang Namtso, who was killed when Chinese police opened fire on a group of pilgrims as they fled Tibet. Cameraman Sergiu Matei (above) captured footage of the brutal incident, proof that shocked the rest of the world.

17

The Machine That Made Us

Friday, SBS, 7.30pm

It’s hard to imagine a world without the internet, 24-hour news channels, podcasts, billboards and Facebook, but today’s saturated mass media has evolved over centuries. This fascinating documentary, presented by British actor Stephen Fry (above), looks at one of the great leaps forward in this evolution – the Gutenberg printing press – which made the mass production of books possible.

6.30 The Biggest Loser. (PG, S) 7.30 So You Think You Can Dance Australia. (PG, S) 9.30 Rove. Celebrity interviews, comedy, music and regular variety segments. Guests include Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Malin Akerman, stars of Watchmen, British actor Alan Cumming, and music from Natalie Bassingthwaighte. Hosted by Rove McManus. (M, S)

6.00 Thalassa: The Island-Citadel. (G, S) 6.30 World News Australia. (S) 7.30 Lost Worlds: Darwin’s Lost Paradise. (S) 8.30 Dateline. A look at the New York City school system, which has been hailed as a possible model for Australian public education by Education Minister Julia Gillard. (S) 9.30 Movie: Ship Of No Return: The Last Voyage Of The Gustloff Pt 2. (2008) Kai Wiesinger, Karl Markovics, Heiner Lauterbach, Michael Mendl, Valerie Niehaus. (M) 11.10 Movie: Salamina Soldiers. (2003) (M, R)

6.00 The Simpsons. (G, R, S) 6.30 Neighbours. (G, S) 7.00

The Biggest Loser. (PG, S) 7.30 So You Think You Can Dance Australia. (PG, S) 8.30 Good News Week. Two teams comprising comedians, media personalities, politicians and special guests engage in a satirical view of the week’s news. (M, S) 9.30 Dexter. Dexter continues his pursuit of the mountain-sized gangster, Little Chino. (AV15+, S) 11.20 The Late Show With David Letterman. (PG)

6.00 Global Village: Exccentriiiks. (G, R, S) 6.30 World News Australia. (S) 7.30 Top Gear. (PG, S) 8.30 South Park. Butters is unwittingly caught up in a vampire craze at school. (M, S) 9.00 Drawn Together. Princess Clara becomes addicted to a prank concocted by Spanky. (MA15+, R, S) 9.30 World News Australia. (S) 9.55 Market Update. 10.00 The Mighty Boosh. (PG, R, S) 11.25 Movie: Nicotina. (2003) (MA15+, R)

6.05 Time Team: Binchester. (G, S) 7.00 News. (S) 7.30 The 7.30 Report. (S) 8.00 Lead Balloon. (PG, S) 8.30 Doctor Who. Strange occurrences at a school attract the attention of the Doctor, Rose and Mickey Smith, as well as a couple of old friends. (PG, R, S) 9.15 Doctor Who Confidential: Cut Down: Friends Reunited. (G, S) 9.30 Foreign Correspondent. Mark Corcoran presents stories from the ABC’s international correspondents. (S) 11.10 Lateline Business. (S) 11.35 Four Corners. (R, S)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 Today Tonight. (S) 7.00 Home And Away. (PG, S) 7.30 RSPCA Animal Rescue. (G, S) 8.00 Find My Family. Hosted by Jack Thompson. (PG, S) 8.30 Packed To The Rafters. Dave is furious after he learns that the man Rachel is dating is an old cricket friend. Melissa and Chrissy are still suspicious of Kat. Ted ventures out into the world of dating. (PG, S) 9.30 All Saints. The new Medical Response Unit is in trouble on its first day of operation. (M, S) 11.30 Dirty Sexy Money. (M)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 WIN News. (S) 7.00 A Current Affair. (S) 7.30 Wipeout Australia. (PG, S) 8.30 Two And A Half Men. (M, S) 9.00 Two And A Half Men. Berta’s daughter Naomi is pregnant and Berta drags Charlie with her to confront the baby’s father. Alan reveals a secret fetish. (M, R, S) 9.30 Aussie Ladette To Lady. With one churlish ladette already on her way home, the remaining girls face up to a daunting challenge when Eggleston Hall hosts the prestigious Zetland Hunt. (M, S) 11.30 Weeds. (MA15+)

6.00 The Simpsons. (G, R, S) 6.30 Neighbours. (G, S) 7.00 The Biggest Loser. (PG, S) 8.00 Bondi Rescue. (PG, S) 8.30 NCIS. The team works overtime during Christmas as they search for a prime suspect who was thought to have been dead for 17 years. (M, S) 9.30 Lie To Me. After a federal judge’s daughter is murdered, Lightman and his team investigate the girl’s extremely competitive high school. (M, S) 11.15 The Late Show With David Letterman. (PG)

6.00 The World Game: Extra Time. 6.30 World News Australia. (S) 7.30 How Does Your Memory Work? (PG, S) 8.30 India Reborn: India On The Move. Part 2 of 4. Personal stories of Indians who have prospered thanks to their nation’s burgeoning economy. (PG, S) 9.30 World News Australia. (S) 9.55 Market Update. 10.00 Hot Docs: Favela Rising. (M, R) 11.30 Movie: Secuestro Express. (2005) (MA15+)

6.00 The Queen’s Cavalry: Grit, Spit And Polish. (G, R, S) 6.30 The Cook And The Chef. (G, S) 7.00 News. (S) 7.30 The 7.30 Report. (S) 8.00 The New Inventors. (G, S) 8.30 Spicks And Specks. (S) 9.00 Chandon Pictures. Tom seizes the chance to become a private detective after an old school friend hires him to discreetly film his wife, who he suspects is having an affair. (M, S) 9.35 Ruddy Hell! It’s Harry And Paul. (M, S) 11.10 Lateline Business. (S) 11.35 Midsomer Murders. (M, R, S)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 Today Tonight. (S) 7.00 Home And Away. (PG, S) 7.30 Australia’s Got Talent. (G, S) 8.30 Criminal Minds. The unit’s investigation into a serial killer targeting members of the Phoenix police force hits close to home for Morgan. (M, S) 9.30 Gangs Of Oz: The Aussie Mafia – Inside The Family. Narrated by Colin Friels. (M, S) 11.30 Disorderly Conduct Caught On Tape. (M)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 WIN News. (S) 7.00 A Current Affair. (S) 7.30 The Farmer Wants A Wife. (PG, S) 8.30 The Mentalist. Patrick becomes interested in a new case involving his former psychiatrist, who is the victim’s ex-wife and also the prime suspect. (M, S) 9.30 Flashpoint. A woman takes a reporter hostage, believing that she is having an affair with her husband. (M, S) 11.30 Just Shoot Me! (PG)

6.00 The Simpsons. (G, R, S) 6.30 Neighbours. (G, S) 7.00 The Biggest Loser. (PG, S) 8.00 Guerrilla Gardeners. A team of six young gardeners transform barren and underused city spaces into an oasis of greenery. (PG, S) 8.30 House. House and his team treat a man who attempted to commit suicide because of constant pain, but discover that locating the source of his distress is no easy matter. (M, S) 9.30 Life. (M, S) 11.15 The Late Show With David Letterman. (PG)

6.00 Global Village: Exccentriiiks. (G, R, S) 6.30 World News Australia. (S) 7.30 Feast India. (G, R, S) 8.00 Tales From The Palaces: The Heritage Theme Park. (G, R, S) 8.30 Tribe: Matis, Western Amazon, Brazil. Bruce Parry spends time with the Matis people of Brazil, who, isolated from the world because of their susceptibility to disease. (PG, S) 9.30 World News Australia. (S) 9.55 Market Update. 10.00 Movie: King’s Game. (2004) (M) 11.55 Movie: Who Knows? (2001) (PG, R)

Movies

Secuestro Express

Tuesday, SBS, 11.30pm

Lovers Carla (Mia Maestro, right) and Martin (Jean Paul Leroux) spend a night trawling the bars of Caracas, Venezuala, but things quickly spiral into chaos when they are kidnapped by a gang looking to make some quick cash. Director Jonathan Jakubowicz uses hand-held cameras to create a claustrophobic and unstable effect that mirrors the characters’ situations.

thursday, 19

Wedding Crashers

Friday, WIN, 9.30pm

Womanising best buddies John and Jack (Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn) are professional wedding crashers, with rules that cannot be broken. That is until John falls for a bridesmaid (Rachel McAdams), who will soon be a bride herself. A hilarious series of events follow as Jack and John are forced to grow up. Former Home and Away star Isla Fisher (above) is a crack-up as nutty nympho Gloria.

6.10 Grand Designs. (G, R, S) 7.00 News. (S) 7.30 The 7.30 Report. (S) 8.00 Catalyst. (S) 8.30 Bringing Up Baby. Part 1 of 4. Takes three of last century’s most popular handbooks on raising newborns and asks six sets of parents to use them as they go through the final stages of pregnancy, childbirth and the first six months of the infants’ lives. (PG, S) 9.30 Q&A. Interactive public affairs program. Hosted by Tony Jones. (S) 11.00 Lateline Business. (S) 11.30 Live From Abbey Road. (PG, S)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 Today Tonight. (S) 7.00 Home And Away. (PG, S) 7.30 Ghost Whisperer. (PG, S) 8.30 Grey’s Anatomy. Meredith is shocked when Derek discovers her mother’s old diary in the house. Callie prepares for her first official date with Erica, Cristina stumbles into a part of the hospital that neither she or her fellow residents have seen before. (M, S) 9.30 Private Practice. A married couple request an unethical fertility treatment. (M, S) 11.00 Beauty And The Geek. (PG)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 WIN News. (S) 7.00 A Current Affair. (S) 7.30 The Celebrity Singing Bee. (PG, S) 8.30 Adults Only 20 To 01. (M, S) 9.30 RPA. Daniel, 17, has received shattering news that he has to lose his left arm to survive a cancerous bone tumour. Julie was crushed between two huge panes of glass and after her co-worker rushed in to save her, the glass shattered and they both ended up in the hospital. (M, S) 11.30 Seinfeld. (PG)

6.00 The Simpsons. (G, R, S) 6.30 Neighbours. (G, S) 7.00 The Biggest Loser. (PG, S) 8.00 Bondi Vet. (PG, S) 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. After a young woman is found trespassing in a family’s home, Detective Stabler is called in to arrest the intruder. (M, S) 9.30 Life On Mars. The detectives cut through a spontaneous hippy party raging in a New York park to attend the scene of a murder. (M, S) 11.15 The Late Show With David Letterman. (PG)

6.00 Global Village: Exccentriiiks. (G, R, S) 6.30 World News Australia. (S) 7.35 Inspector Rex. (PG, R, S) 8.30 Tibet: Murder In The Snow. (M, S) 9.30 World News Australia. (S) 9.55 Market Update. 10.00 Movie: 13 Tzameti. (2005) George Babluani, Pascal Bongard, Aurélien Recoing, Fred Ulysse. An impoverished Georgian migrant living in France takes a lucrative job, unaware of its deadly nature, after the original applicant dies of an overdose. (M) 11.40 Queer As Folk. (MA15+, R, S)

Jaws

Saturday, SC Ten 8.40pm

Three decades after it scared beachgoers clear of the sun and surf, Steven Spielberg’s underwater thriller remains just as powerful. Seamlessly transferring Peter Benchley’s pulp novel to the big screen, Spielberg redefined the scale of the blockbuster. Cinema history aside, the simple human fear of the unseen remains Jaws’ greatest strength. The dynamic trio of Roy Scheider, Robert Shaw and Richard Dreyfuss shine, while John Williams’ score remains chilling.

friday, 20 s aturday, 21

6.00 Message Stick. (G, R, S) 6.30 Can We Help? (G, S) 7.00 News. (S) 7.30 Stateline. (S) 8.00 Collectors. (S) 8.30 Miniseries: Trial & Retribution XIII: Curriculum Vitae. (2007) Part 1 of 2. Emotions run raw after the team takes a case involving the tragic death of an 18-month-old child and the disappearance of the girl’s nanny, a woman with a secret past. (M, S) 9.40 Dalziel And Pascoe. (M, R, S) 11.10 triple j tv With The Doctor. (R, S) 11.40 Good Game. (R, S)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 Today Tonight. (S) 7.00 Home And Away. (PG, S) 7.30 Better Homes And Gardens. (G, S) 8.30 Movie: Bruce Almighty. (2003) Jim Carrey, Jennifer Aniston, Morgan Freeman, Philip Baker Hall, Steven Carell, Catherine Bell. A luckless TV reporter receives supernatural powers after God overhears him complaining about the world. (M, R, S)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 WIN News. (S) 7.00 A Current Affair. (S) 7.30 Movie: Two Weeks Notice. (2002) (PG, R, S) 9.30 Movie: Wedding Crashers. (2005) Owen Wilson, Vince Vaughn, Rachel McAdams, Isla Fisher. Two habitual wedding crashers must change their ways when one of them meets and falls in love with the daughter of an influential politician at a ceremony. (M, R, S)

6.00 The Simpsons. (G, R, S) 6.30 Neighbours. (G, S) 7.00 The Biggest Loser. (PG, S) 7.30 The Simpsons. (PG, S) 8.00 The Simpsons. G, R, S) 8.30 Medium. Allison is puzzled after dreaming of several murders, all of which are witnessed by an apparent ghost who later turns out to be very much alive. (M, S) 9.30 Law & Order. McCoy’s job is on the line when he prosecutes a case involving the murder of a jeweller linked to a prostitution ring used by New York’s elite. (M, S) 11.20 News. (S) 11.50 Sports Tonight. (S)

6.00 Global Village: Exccentriiiks. (G, R, S) 6.30 World News Australia. (S) 7.30 The Machine That Made Us. (S) 8.35 As It Happened: Churchill’s Bodyguard – Surviving The Blitz. (PG, R, S) 9.30 World News Australia. (S) 9.55 Market Update. 10.00 A Lady’s Guide To Brothels. Investigative journalist Nicky Taylor and ladies from the Hampshire Women’s Institute travel the globe to find out what makes a best-practice brothel. (S) 11.10 Movie: L’Idole. (2002) (M, R, S)

6.00 Totally Frank. (PG, R, S) 6.25 Minuscule. (G) 6.30 Gardening Australia. (G, S) 7.00 News. (S) 7.30 New Tricks. (PG, R, S) 8.25 News. (S) 8.30 The Bill. PC Fletcher and DC Dasari take over the investigation into the stabbing of a suspected drug dealer, only to find themselves with a surplus of suspects when two brothers independently confess to the crime. (PG, S) 11.20 Rage. (M)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 In The Bush With Malcolm Douglas. (PG, S) 7.30 Kath & Kim. (PG, R, S) 8.00 Fawlty Towers. Basil is knocked unconscious during a fire drill. (PG, R, S) 8.40 The Vicar Of Dibley. When the BBC hear about Dibley’s new female vicar, they decide to film an episode of Songs of Praise at the church. (PG, R, S) 9.20 Not Going Out. The death of Tim’s grandmother brings Tim and Kate closer together. (PG, S) 10.00 Gavin & Stacey. (M, S) 11.20 Movie: Stuck On You. (2003) (M, R, S)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 Australia’s Funniest Home Videos. (G, S) 7.30 Movie: Open Season. (2006) (G, S) 9.15 Movie: Spider-Man 2. (2004) Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Alfred Molina. When faced with the malevolence of an old enemy, college student Peter Parker must decide between his old life and his secret identity in order to save New York City. (M, R, S)

6.00 The Simpsons. (G, R, S) 6.30 Movie: Junior. (1994) (PG, R, S) 8.40 Movie: Jaws. (1975) Roy Scheider, Richard Dreyfuss, Robert Shaw, Lorraine Gary, Murray Hamilton, Carl Gottlieb. A police chief, a game fisherman and a marine biologist hunt down a killer shark which is terrorising beachgoers in a small seaside community. (M, R, S) 11.10 Football. NAB Cup. Round 1. Geelong v Adelaide. From Telstra Dome.

6.00 Classical Destinations: Madrid & Belgrade (Albeniz, De Falla, Mokranjac). (G, S) 6.30 World News Australia. (S) 7.30 Prototype This: Robot Boxer. (S) 8.30 Iron Chef. (G, S) 9.20 RocKwiz. Hosted by Julia Zemiro. (PG, S) 10.00 Movie: The Illustrated Family Doctor. (2005) Samuel Johnson, Colin Friels, Sacha Horler, Jessica Napier. An editor of an illustrated medical journal becomes convinced that he is suffering from the rare diseases included in the book he’s working on. (M, R, S) 11.45 Shorts On Screen. (M)

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15

Top 12 Kickin’ it with Pink 6PM – MTV (251)

A programme that looks back at singer Pink’s earlier clips as well as her more recent hits.

Medicine Woman

8PM – NITV (502)

Danielle Behn goes to Ireland to learn about the healing properties of indigenous plants.

Beowulf

8.35PM – MOVIE TWO (412)

A 3D animation epic based on legendary warrior Beowulf, who slayed the demon Grendal and incurred the hellish wrath of the beast’s ruthlessly seductive mother, beginning a war.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16

Til Debt Do Us Part

6.30PM – DISCOVERY HOME & HEALTH (309) Nell and Darrell have $60,000 in personal debt, which is no laughing matter, but Darrell refuses to let it stress him out and constantly jokes about their situation.

World Business Today

7.30PM – CNN (451)

Live from London, “World Business Today” follows the close of US financial markets and provides a comprehensive summary of the day’s events on Wall Street and impacts on the European and Asian financial markets.

Disturbia

8.30PM – MOVIE ONE (411)

Seventeen-year-old Kale is placed under house arrest. With nothing to do with his time, he becomes the neighbourhood spy and begins to suspect a serial killer is living nearby. Stars Shia LaBeouf and Carrie-Anne Moss.

Sunbeam VitaSteam Electro stackable steamer, $69.95… can cook an entire meal at once.

Breville BBM600 ikon Baker’s Oven, $269.95… makes baking a variety of bread products easy.

table talk

FANTASTIC Furniture general manager Peter Spring says that as we move towards eating and entertaining at home, it’s time to consider replacing old dining settings.

“Many people live with a tired, old dining setting because they are unsure what to replace it with,” he says. “A new dining

suite is a major centrepiece for your dining area and is a good opportunity to create a new look or smarten up your existing space.”

Pictured is the Balmoral seven-piece dining set, $699, from Fantastic Furniture.

Improve your Summer Comfort

Applying imagination

By Megan Haggan

SMALL appliances are hot as Canberrans embrace the trend towards entertaining at home.

So says Angela Farrell, department manager of small appliances at The Good Guys Tuggeranong.

“Appliances which let you cook an easy, healthy meal, such as rice cookers, woks and vegetable steamers, are very popular,” Angela says.

“You don’t have to be a gourmet chef to use any of these – and more and more people are looking for a healthy way to cook.”

Stab mixers, which make it easy to crush puree foods (for soup, for example), are also popular, she says. “You can puree directly into a saucepan, rather than using a mixer.”

Canberrans were fond of entertaining at home, she says. “They don’t necessarily do a great big formal meal like we did in the old days, though – having people over for dinner is a more casual experience,” she says.

“You don’t have to spend

the whole day cooking, like you used to.” Winter may seem like a long way off right now, but Angela says that slow-cookers are perfect for Canberrans during the colder months.

“Slow-cookers let you prepare a casserole in the morning, put it into the ceramic container, turn it on and leave it to cook while you’re at work all day,” she says.

“There’s nothing like opening your front door on a cold day and smelling hot food cooking.”

prestigeproperty

in the heart of the inner south

KINGSTON

THIS second-floor, two-bedroom unit in the heart of Kingston has been updated to reflect contemporary living. Filled with an abundance of natural light, the living area opens on to a tiled undercover balcony.

Two spacious bedrooms open on to a large rear balcony. The master bedroom has a walk-in robe and there are built-in robes in the other.

Situated in The Quadrant complex, moments

away from the popular restaurants, shops, parks and Lake Burley Griffin, the unit features an updated kitchen with granite benchtops and floating timber floors; new carpet and is freshly painted.

Address: 6/8 Howitt Street, Kingston. Price: $419,950.

Inspection: By appointment.

Agent: Sandy Funston, Richard Luton Properties, 0414 629996.

• In excess of 500 property sales

• Award winning agent

• Licensed Agent & Auctioneer

• 8 years real estate experience

• Highly regarded negotiator

• Long list of satisfied clients for

To sample the Michael Potter experience, please phone for an obligation free appraisal

open: Saturday 1.30-2.15, Tuesday 6.30-7pm Auction: On Site 7pm, Thursday 5th March details: Greg Hedger 0427 214 337

cAnbERRA

- Overlooking leafy Leichardt Street, this spacious north facing, 2 beedroom, ensuite apartment is with-in walking distance to some of Canberra’s finest restaurants and cafes. The apartment comprises a spacious open plan living area, north facing balcony, kitchen with granitetop benches and Bosche stainless steel appliances, two double sized bedrooms with ensuite to master and built-in robes to both bedrooms. Also includes intercom, two reverse cycle heating/cooling systems, quality carpet and drapes plus more. EER 5.5.

open: Saturday 10.30-11.15am details: Sandy Funston 0414 629 996

SURFSIDE 42 Myamba Parade

Excellent Waterfront Opportunity

This is true waterfront! Just a stroll across your manicured rear garden and you’re on the long sandy beach! Soak up panoramic sea views from the spacious living room and master bedroom. Open windows and catch the gentle swish of the waves breaking on the shore. Enjoy town lights across the water. All this plus more can be yours when you purchase this older-style, three bedroom residence, for downstairs is fully self-contained, roomy two bedroom accommodation with two bathrooms and a big games room. Strongly built, it offers immense possibilities, just five minutes from the centre of town.

Price by negotiation

View by appointment

John Haslem 0418 514 399 raywhite.com BBY11275

BATEHAVEN 204 Corrigans Cove, 202 Beach Road

So Close To The Water!

All you have to do is relax when you arrive at this 4 ½ star two bedroom unit with water views in a boutique managed complex of 32 with its picture-perfect pool. With Corrigans Beach directly opposite and up to 90 days own usage each year, plus a capital return, this is a great investment. Stroll to cafes for papers and coffee, and it’s just a quick drive to the golf course or marina. Less than five minutes drive to the heart of Batemans Bay.

SUNSHINE BAY Kooringa Coastal Retreat, 410 Beach Road

Investment Opportunity

A golden chance for lateral thinking… this could be an executive retreat, school excursion destination, or even knock it down and build your own dream residence in this great position. Currently with accommodation for up to 65 people, conference and dining facilities, a manager’s residence and plenty of room for parking, you’re literally a stone’s throw from Caseys Beach. Tucked into a quiet corner with direct access to Short Beach Creek, come and see what you could do with almost three-quarters of an acre (2,858sqm) almost on the beach.

Auction

Saturday 7 March On Site 12noon

View 14.2.09 @ 2pm or by appointment

John Haslem 0418 514 399 raywhite.com BBY11269

Price $265,000

View by appointment

Kate Shaw 0409 743 332 raywhite.com BBY11263

LILLI PILLI 28 Allinga Close

A Little Slice Of Heaven

You’ll never want to leave this stylish architect-designed residence on 1000sqm, tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in leafy Lilli Pilli, and a short walk from renowned Lilli Pilli beaches. Its north easterly aspect bathes it in morning sunlight and its location is so tranquil. Perfectly designed to accommodate family or visitors you’ll especially enjoy the master bedroom suite with own sitting room and secluded deck. It also has a large stand alone garage with adjoining workshop, wired for 3-phase power. Just ten minutes from Batemans Bay town centre, and our vendors are highly motivated!!

Auction

Saturday 7 March 2pm On Site, if not sold prior View by appointment

John Haslem 0418 514 399 raywhite.com BBY11270

This year Philip Kouvelis will celebrate his 30th year in his own agency in Canberra. Having commenced his career in early 1973 Philip opened his own business in July 1979. If you wish to have your home sold or rented by a highly experienced agent in a personal and professional manner please contact Philip today either by phone 62851590 or 0412622420, email philip@garran.kouvelis.com.au or call in and discuss your business over a coffee at paparazzi@garran cafe.

Philip Kouvelis Real Estate Garran Shopping Centre, Garran, ACT Telephone: 6285 1590

WEETANGERA

ONLY two villas remain unsold in the Mathieson Lane boutique development of six single-level villas at Weetangera.

The complex, which is expected to be completed in April, is designed to appeal to single people or couples that do not require a large home yet wish to stay living in the area.

Villa 1 is a one-bedroom design with street frontage and a large open-living area leading to a fully landscaped, courtyard garden.

The kitchen is complete with stone and timber finishes, and Omega appliances.

The larger Villa 6 has two big bedrooms, two bathrooms, a double garage and a larger, fully established courtyard garden.

Address: 11 Mathieson Crescent, Weetangera.

Price: Villa 1, $425,500; Villa 6, $495,000.

Inspection: By appointment.

Agent: Luke Revet, Independent Property Group, Dickson, on 6209 4009 or 0418 101213