Canberra CityNews June 11-17, 2009

It’s mum who knows best

We will overcome

NEW mums need to feel empowered to make informed decisions about caring for their babies, says midwife and author Rhodanthe Lipsett – and they need help to appreciate that they know their babies better than anyone else.

“One of the hardest things about new motherhood is when the lady over the back fence, with five kids of her own, is telling you what to do – and even professional people have different points of view to tell you,” Rhodanthe, now in her 80s, told “CityNews”.

Rhodanthe wrote “No One Right Way”, a handbook for new parents particularly in the first few weeks of a baby’s life, to present a range of different solutions to common questions and problems.

Different solutions are appropriate to different babies, she says. Some babies like to be wrapped snugly when it’s time to sleep; others want their hands free, for example.

“I wrote the book with the view that it offers some information, these are options, but nobody will know your baby better than you do,” Rhodanthe says.

“If one method of care isn’t working, there are different options you can try. The problem is that everyone gives you advice that was probably appropriate for one mother and baby, but not necessarily yours, so you don’t have to follow it.

“Listen to folk if you choose to, never argue with them, and then go and do your own thing!”

She says that as long as several basics are followed, mums should feel empowered to choose what’s right for their baby.

These basics include that the infant is growing at an appropriate rate; “that the little one feels as comfortable as you can make it”; and baby gets lots of physical contact with the parents.

“No One Right Way” also sets out ways for parents to recognise when baby is happy to be spoken to and played with, or when they’re tired.

Lastly, “You need to remember that you can’t spoil a tiny baby.”

“No One Right Way” can also be useful for mothers with older children, Rhodanthe says.

“It’s most baffling when you have an easy first baby, but the second is not so easy!”

Rhodanthe began her career as a midwife in 1947 at Broken Hill, where the seeds of the book were sown when she saw rigid hospital rules bent to help a frightened indigenous teenager give birth. “I realised there was no one right way to do things, and I’ve never forgotten that.”

June 11-17, 2009

Since 1993: Volume 15, n umber 22

Rhodanthe moved to Canberra in 1951 to work at Canberra Hospital, later moving into community care at Maternal and Baby Health Centres and visiting rural mums and their newborns.

“We opened a clinic in O’Connor, which was out in the sticks back then.

“I did country visits to Tidbinbilla, Royalla and Parsons Creek, and the mums loved it, as they were so isolated. And if ‘Blue Hills’ came on the radio we stopped and listened – it was sacred!”

Rhodanthe donates part of the royalties from “No One Right Way” to charities including a College of Midwives project to encourage indigenous women to train as midwives; the Australian Breastfeeding Association; and PANDSI, the support group for antenatal and post-natal depression.

“No One Right Way”, $49.95, is available from selected bookstores and from the Australian College of Midwives on 6230 7333.

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 Scott Meikle, 0404 318888

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

ACT women, who own or operate their own business, overwhelmingly believe they can successfully weather the tough economic times, according to new research commissioned by Telstra. The survey of revealed that while 88 per cent of ACT women who own or operate their own business are concerned about the state of the economy, all were confident of leading their business successfully through a recession.

Driving to a new car

NRMA Safer Driving School’s “Road to Freedom” campaign focuses on teaching low-risk driving techniques and, until August 13, students have a chance of driving away from their licence test in a new car, says Tony Commisso (pictured), franchisee for ACT and Queanbeyan. Until August 31, every lesson will provide a further chance in the draw for a Hyundai i30 SX hatch, valued at $24,910. The winner will be drawn on September 14. More details at mynrma.com. au/safer driving.

Dedicated room

A NEWLY refurbished room at the Canberra Services Club has been dedicated by Veterans’ Affairs Minister Alan Griffin to Capt. Reg Saunders, Australia’s first indigenous commissioned officer. He fought in North Africa, Greece, Crete and New Guinea during World War II, and later in the Korean War.

Prize winner

SHALINI Warusevipane, of Gordon, is the winner of the place at New Directions twoday Deluxe DIY Skincare Workshop with Cheryl Ross. The prize is valued at $595.

Attention Specsavers Customers

p hone 6262 9100 fax 6262 9111 GPO Box 2448, Canberra City 2601

Editor: Ian Meikle ed@citynews.com.au

Senior writer and 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

Accounts manager: Bethany Freeman-Chandler accounts@citynews.com.au

Kelly snaps up photo prizes

By Jorian Gardner

“CANBERRA brides are becoming far more sophisticated which allows for more creativity in what they want in their photography,” says local photographer Kelly Tunney, who recently triumphed over tough international competition to win a series of awards at a major industry exhibition in the US.

Kelly, from Bruce, came away with four prizes from the Wedding and Portrait Photographers International (WPPI) 2009 Awards of Excellence, held in Las Vegas. Her photographs “Barn Bride” and “Joined” each received an Accolade of Excellence in the Bride and Groom Together category while “Mystery Bride” received an Accolade of Excellence in the Bride and Groom Alone category and her work “Umbrella Trees” received an Accolade of Excellence in the Bridal Party Category.

“I was absolutely stunned when I received

these awards,” Kelly says. “I was competing against people from around the world whose work I admire and who are leading photographers. It’s the first time I went in it and thought it was a good opportunity to see how I would compete and compare to other photographers – from America, especially.

“Truth be told, I probably didn’t really expect to do that well. It’s not a monetary thing – but I do get some beautiful plaques and ribbons, it’s really just great to get the affirmation of my work. It’s a big deal in the photographic industry.

“I love wedding photography and I think the judges must have realised that through my work.”

The 2009 competition featured a total of 2717 prints in 19 different categories.

Kelly has been shooting weddings in Canberra for 12 years. Over that time she has built an impressive portfolio of work and has won national and State awards including Runner-

up, ACT Wedding Photographer of the Year in 2008.

“I get quite involved in the weddings I do – and many clients have become firm friends.” says Kelly. “It’s about building a relationship.

“I am happy to take risks, too – I like it. I might take a bridal party into town to walk through the North Quarter or something – it doesn’t bother me because the public aren’t looking at me, but it requires a client who is a bit bold!”

And so with all the unusual shoots she likes to do, has there been one that stands out particularly for her?

“I guess it would be the witch wedding I did,” says Kelly. “It was out at Rose Cottage and was an opportunity for me to do something different and was very creatively challenging. It was minus two degrees, it was very dark and the bride was in black and red and carrying a broomstick and in a goddess circle – not your typical wedding!”

Online a third of our leisure time, says study

AUSTRALIANS spend about a third of our leisure time online, according to a new study that investigated online behaviour in 16 countries. We spend less time online than the Chinese (44 per cent of leisure time) and Koreans (40 per cent), but more than Americans (30 per cent) and people in the UK (28 per cent).

enviRonMent

By Tanya Davies

Looking for people who care

LANDCARE celebrates its remarkable 20th anniversary this year and the nationwide search for Landcare legends is now on. Landcare Australia is calling for people across the ACT to enter the National Landcare Awards at a State and Territory level.

Landcare CEO Brian Scarsbrick said: “Never has there been a more vital time to salute people turning the tide against land and water degradation. Landcare Awards winners get huge recognition at the national ceremony, special prizes and the whole project is all about saluting people who are making a huge difference – whether you are tackling soil erosion, water pollution, salinity or any environmental issue.”

Former winner, ACT’s Life in the Suburbs project, produced by Beth Mitchell with ANUgreen, conducted a detailed ecological survey of Canberra’s biodiversity. Four hundred community members recorded flora and fauna and the state of waterways and the findings were presented in the Urban Habitats Guidelines for the ACT, a user-friendly guide that includes backyard tips on reducing weeds, attracting wildlife and disposing of waste.

This year’s event is supported by cricket legend David Boon, champion freediver Sacha Dench, Don Burke, and singers Ami Williamson and Neil Murray. Long-time Landcare supporter Jack Thompson – who performed at last year’s Landcare Awards – paid special tribute to youngsters working in projects. He said: “Young leaders are the future. The new generation coming knows our land and water resources have to be protected at all costs. What’s exciting about this year’s awards is that there are new directions to salute young leaders and also salute urban land carers. We have to build a stronger bridge between the city and the country.”

Seventy-nine per cent of Australians log on from home each day, and around 60 per cent have met an online “friend” in person, according to the study, conducted by market information group TNS.

“We’re finding Australians becoming more and more engaged in social networking, online communities and virtual worlds.”

“The figures from our study show how far the internet has progressed in becoming part of our daily lives,” says director of technology research at TNS Sydney, Marcus Pritchard.

Social networking sites such as Facebook and MySpace are particularly popular, with one in two of us using them – and on average, we are members of 2.7 different sites. The global average is 2.5

Mr Scarsbrick added: “People who won a national Landcare award last year have found that it has changed things. Some award winners experience all kinds of remarkable changes. We’re very proud of what’s happening in Landcare because people make all the difference. We are bringing back more trees. We are changing the landscape. Urban Landcare is changing the face of cities. Rural action is around us.”

To make a nomination for the Landcare Awards go to www.landcareonline.com and download a nomination form, or get involved by voting for The People’s Choice Award.

A wicked month-long sales event. Throughout

June 2009.

Capital

It’s only for the month of June so what are you waiting for? Try the ultimate driving experience and receive ultimate

Visit our showroom today or visit www.mbcapitalstar.com.au for more information - you’ll fall in love with these wicked models.

Demonstrator Opportunities.

Hypers Hypers

Ever thought about turning your professional skills into a rewarding and satisfying business? Perhaps you have already taken the plunge into the world of business.

During the workshop we will explore key requirements such as –

• Business Planning and Resources

• Registration and Structure

• Marketing and Promotion

• Financial Management

The workshop will also provide you with ample opportunities for discussion, networking and sharing your own business aspirations if you wish.

Presenter Jean McIntyre has extensive experience in marketing and training. She holds a Graduate Diploma in Marketing and is in business with Marketing Angels as the Regional Director. Jean teaches marketing and management at Canberra Institute of Technology and is a presenter with Canberra BusinessPoint. She is a published writer and undertakes many leadership roles in business and the community.

Presenter David Grantham possesses a solid background of experience plus formal qualifications in finance, management and sales. In a former life as Manager Business Education at the Australian National University he was responsible for training in business management, finance and related systems. David is a knowledgeable communicator who is passionate about people learning and understanding

Members $150 Non-members $250

Bookings: Martine Taylor (02) 6260 7104 martinetaylor@hotmail.com

Frontman Paul Jamison… “We are not about any one genre or any one type of art, it’s about saying ‘here it is guys, it’s for everyone to use’.”

A message from The Front

the Front café and gallery has quickly become an important hub for the c anberra arts scene. its laid-back creator paul Jamison comes out from behind the coffee machine to talk to JoRiAn GARDneR.

SINCE opening its doors nearly four years ago, The Front café and gallery in Lyneham has become a central part of the arts scene in Canberra.

From visual art to comedy; music and poetry, The Front has established itself as a place where artists can mix and converge – and get a gig.

“I think it is because we have welcomed artists to use the place as their own,” says owner Paul Jamison. “We are not about any one genre or any one type of art, it’s about saying ‘here it is guys, it’s for everyone to use’. We need that – I couldn’t do all this myself obviously, so it’s great that people are always coming to me and asking ‘can I show my art?’ or ‘can I play my music?’”

Jamison is a relaxed guy who is renowned for his easy-going attitude. He’s comfortable talking about all manner of creative endeavour and is a widely respected artist himself.

“I make sculptures – that’s my main jive,” he says. “I do mainly timber sculptures and chainsaw art. I grew up on a small farm out the back of Hall, so laboriously cutting firewood for the old man and doing all those sorts of farm chores has translated into having good

skills for making my art.

“I got into this (the café and gallery) so as I could actually have an outlet for my own artwork. I haven’t really done that much of that here as I spent the first three years behind the coffee machine! Luckily now, I have got more staff and the business is at a stage where I can get back to doing more.

“I haven’t even had a solo exhibition in my own gallery in all this time!” he laughs.

The Front has grown to be more than just a small gallery with eye-catching exhibitions – it’s become a multi-faceted space.

“I always wanted to have visual art as well as music as I always knew that would attract people – and you can’t have visual art without music in my opinion, but the extent to which it has diversified is the amazing thing. It continues to surprise me.

“If an entrepreneur looked at my books they probably wouldn’t say it was a ‘good business’, but that’s just not what it is about. I mean, it pays my way and my staff’s way and it provides me this great place where we can all have fun! So to me, at this moment, at this point in my life, that’s what counts.”

By Catherine Carter

No choice, we need more folk

THE one element frequently missing from debates about population growth in the ACT is a simple, undeniable fact: We really don’t have much of a choice.

Unless we set artificial limits on the number of people allowed to live in Canberra, the population will change, either growing because Canberra is viable and liveable enough to attract people, or falling because people are leaving.

So far, the news is good. We are not a population in decline.

Likewise, the demographic mix in our population is also bound to change as improvements in medical science and reductions in the birth rate push our average age upwards.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has predicted that the national population is expected to grow to 25 million people (around a 40 per cent increase), with average age rising from 36 to 40 by 2020.

He also noted: “Our population of Australians over 85 will have doubled from 300,000 now to 600,000 by 2020, with profound implications for national health care expenditures.”

Some of this growth is expected to happen in Canberra and, late last month, Chief Minister Jon Stanhope announced that the ACT population is forecast to grow to 350,000 by 2010 and 500,000 by 2050. Three quarters of this growth, he said, is expected to occur by natural increase (births minus deaths) and a quarter by people moving here.

We need to plan intelligently for its successful, sustainable assimilation. We need a vision and goals for Canberra to change the things we can for the best-possible future for the Territory. We need to plan our infrastructure, hospitals, schools, transport and services to allow for what the population will be – and we need to plan for future housing needs. Greenfields developments will, no doubt, be a viable part of the solution – but only a part. It is economically and environmentally sustainable to use existing infrastructure and resources by increasing density around the town centres.

Population will grow in the ACT, and we need long-term plans to ensure that such growth is a positive enhancement to Canberra rather than causing unexpected difficulties.

Queen’s Birthday awards

Canberrans honoured

ONE of Australia’s foremost political analysts, a leading scientist, a prominent environmental economist, a significant figure in the construction industry and a long-serving journalist have been recognised in the Queens’s Birthday Honours List.

Professor John Warhurst has been awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for his long-standing commitment to enhancing community understanding of politics and the political process.

Professor Kurt Lambeck has also been made on Officer of the Order of Australia (AO). His research has led to a greater understanding of global warming.

The former head of the Australia Institute, Professor Clive Hamilton, has become a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his significant contribution in stimulating debate

OFFICER IN THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA (AO)

General Division

Mr David William Borthwick , Nicholls, for service to the development of environmental policy.

Mr Allan Grantley Gyngell , Griffith, for service to international relations through contributions to the development of public and governmental debate on foreign and security policy.

Professor Kurt Lambeck , Hughes, for service to science through the development of policy, the promotion of educational programs and as a researcher and educator in the field of geoscience.

Mr Steven James Robinson , Barton, for service to Australia's international interests through a significant and sustained contribution.

Professor John Lewis Warhurst , Reid, for service to higher education and as an academic, author and commentator on national and international political issues, and to the community.

MEMBER IN THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA (AM)

General Division

Mr Bruce Lawrence Davis , for service to international relations through leadership of AusAID and the development and reform of Australia's overseas aid programs.

Professor Clive Charles Hamilton , Manuka, for service to public debate and policy development, particularly in the fields of climate change, sustainability and societal trends.

Mr John Arthur Haskins , Reid, for service to the building and construction sector, and to the community.

Mr Malcolm John Hazell , Chifley, for service to the community and to successive Australian Governments through senior positions in the Australian Public Service, and as official secretary to the GovernorGeneral of Australia.

Dr Peter Anthony Holdsworth , Monash, for service to the animal health industry.

Professor David Murray Horner, Deakin, for service to higher education in the area of Australian military history and heritage.

Mr Peter Christopher O'Clery, Hall, for service to the Australian tourism industry.

Mr Kenneth Maxwell Randall OAM , Chifley, for continued service to journalism and public affairs through raising awareness of issues affecting the future of Australia and contributions to national debate.

Professor John Alan Richards , Fadden, for service to electrical engineering as an academic and as

about the future of Australian society.

John Haskins has also been awarded an AM for his profound and lasting dedication to the building and construction industry locally, nationally and internationally. Mr Haskins is also the chair of the Land Development Agency.

Also receiving an AM is veteran journalist Ken Randall, who has been recognised for his contribution to journalism, current affairs and civic awareness and his many years of involvement with the National Press Club.

Also awarded were Peter O’Clery (AM) who, as member of the Rotary Club of Hall, is an instigator of the club’s highly successful Saturday morning market at EPIC, and public service lawyer Robert Altamore (OAM), one of the founders of Print Radio IPR and a member of the Rotary Club of Weston Creek.

a contributor to the development of space science.

Mrs Jennifer Thomas , Griffith, for philanthropic support for higher education and medical research organisations, and to overseas humanitarian aid projects.

Professor James Stanislaus Williams , Holder, for service to the physical sciences and engineering through education, research and administrative roles.

Military Division

Commodore Raymond James Griggs , for exceptional service to the RAN as the Amphibious Task Group commander, deputy fleet commander, director general Navy Strategic Policy and Futures, and as director general, Force Structure Review, for the Defence White Paper.

Brig. David Colin Gillian , for exceptional service to the Australian Army as the director general intelligence, and as the inaugural commanding officer, 1st Intelligence Battalion.

Brig. Peter Warwick Gilmore for exceptional service as director general public affairs, and as director general Future Land Warfare. Group Capt. Andrew Phillip Doyle , for exceptional service in management of the acquisition of the C-17 aircraft and as project director Air 8000 PH3-Heavy Airlift Project.

MEDAL OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA (OAM) General Division

Mr Robert Jeffrey Altamore , Stirling, for service to people with a vision impairment.

Mrs Colleen Claire Brandstetter, Fadden, for service to the community of the Canberra region.

Mr Mark Stephen Cranfield , Higgins, for service to Australian folklore and to the recording of oral histories.

Mr Mario Damo, Red Hill, for service to the multicultural community of the ACT.

Mr Christopher Warren Deacon , for service to community radio through the ArtSound organisation.

Ms Julia Virginia Gillespie , Hackett, for service to the community through the St Ninian's Uniting Church Friendship Group.

Mr Gordon Nigel Gregory, Hughes, for service to the community through the National Rural Health Alliance.

Mrs Beryl Mary Horwood , Bruce, for service to migrant and refugee women in the ACT.

Dr John Stephen Howe , Lyneham, for service to medicine as a general practitioner.

Mrs Christine Gloria Hunter, Rivett, for service to public

education, and to the community.

Dr Alison McCusker, Woden, for service to science through the cataloguing of Australian flora.

Mrs Gladys May McLean , McKellar, for service to the community through the Drugs in the Family support group.

The Rev Father Brian Thomas Maher, Jamison, for service to the Canberra region through historical organisations, and to the Catholic Church of Australia.

Mrs June Isabel Mickleburgh , Deakin, for service to migrant and refugee women, and to the ACT Embroiderers' Guild.

Mrs Denise Margaret Molony, Cook, for service to the Indo Chinese, Albanian and Afghan communities in the Canberra region.

Mrs Beverley Anne Orr, Giralang, for service to the community, particularly children through foster care and child protection.

Mrs Norma Roach , Karabar, NSW, for service to the arts through the development of cultural activities and facilities in the Queanbeyan region.

Dr Richard Schodde , Garran, for service to science, particularly in the field of ornithology.

Mrs Barbara Helen Silinis , Weston, for service to the Lithuanian community of Canberra.

Mrs Jean Marjorie Thomson , Yarralumla, for service to the community through women's organisations, and to the Uniting Church in Australia.

Military Division

Lt. Robert Andrew Barb, for meritorious service in the career management of the sailors of the RAN.

PUBLIC SERVICE MEDAL

Mr Andrew Leigh (Drew) Clarke ; Mr Ian Carruthers , Flynn; Ms Ellen Erika Dunne , Braddon; His Excellency Mr Marc InnesBrown ; Ms Meghan Elizabeth Quinn , O'Connor; Mr Damien John Roberts , Chisholm; Mr Brian Paul Stewart , Yarralumla; Mr Michael Francis Thompson , Forrest.

AUSTRALIAN FIRE SERVICE MEDAL

Mr Gregory John Kent , Amaroo. AMBULANCE SERVICE MEDAL

Mrs Therese Suzanne Moore , Burra Creek, NSW.

EMERGENCY SERVICES MEDAL

Mrs Tracey Annette Foote , Murrumbateman, NSW.

Clinton leads new breed at ZOO

younG, passionate and creative, clinton Hutchinson says that stepping up to the position of general manager at c anberra’s biggest communications agency is the greatest challenge of his career, but one he is well prepared for.

Hutchinson, who takes over the dayto-day management of Kingston-based ZOO from Peter Ring, said his eight years in the company’s creative engine room had well prepared him for this senior management role.

Ring has been appointed CEO of the new entity ZOO Brandz, which has grown out of specialist branding workshops he has developed, which have been assisting businesses to define where they sit in the marketplace and to find the marketing edge they need.

Hutchinson said that relationships were “paramount” to him.

“My parents are my best friends,” he said. “They always encouraged my brother and me to make our own decisions. They allowed us to make mistakes so we could learn by them. We were always told to put others before yourself.”

Hutchinson says his ability to get along with people comes from his family upbringing. His parents were both Salvation Army ministers who were

often transferred to take on new jobs.

Born in Bathurst, he has also lived in Clermont, Maclean, Gunnedah, Moree, Brisbane (several times, four schools) and Canberra (also several times).

“Growing up on the road meant I had to learn to make new friends. That came fairly easily. I am naturally an open and trusting person. I was always the new guy walking into the classroom. But I think that’s why I don’t get nerv-

ous now walking into boardrooms. I’m not scared of presenting because I have been doing it one way or another all my life.

“Through my dad’s jobs, which included running the Salvation Army’s Drug and Rehabilitation Homeless Centre in Moree, growing up as kids we saw the best and worst of life.

“Mum and dad would always have extra people over for Sunday lunch,

some of them in pretty dire straits.”

He started with ZOO as a graphic designer, was promoted quickly to senior designer then art director and for the last four years has been running ZOO’s graphic design and digital studio, the largest in Canberra with a team of 14.

“In 1997, I entered and won the New Enterprise Incentive Scheme, a program that helps people to start up and run a new, viable small business. I started my own business in design; I was creative but didn’t have a clue then about the business side. But it was the starting point.

“I first met the guys from ZOO when I was a graphic designer at the Department of Health and Ageing. At the last minute, I was thrown into a meeting where I had to read them the riot act on some work they had done. It was a somewhat awkward moment six months later when, in an interview for a position at ZOO, CEO Pawl Cubbin remembered where we had previously met!

“Pawl has taught me a lot about business and I’ll continue to work very closely with him in the running of ZOO.”

Hutchinson said that his new role as GM will focus on offering clients better solutions, getting the work out quickly and building strong relationships from the ground up.

“The world is changing and our business needed to change with it,” he said.

“It’s not just the Global Financial Crisis that has shifted people’s thinking. There are also many more communication options available to them these days and clients are looking for a company that can help them communicate with their customers in the best, most cost-effective way.

“I want to continue to build ZOO’s culture to be more client focused, offering better value for money and maintaining the high standard of

work we’ve always been known for.

“Successful companies have to live those qualities, not just talk about them on their website.”

Beyond Hutchinson’s appointment, Ash Morgan, partner, who will be working alongside Clinton, said that the company had spent the last 12 months assembling a creative team of people who were the best in their field.

“Mike O’Hare, our new creative director, has spent the last 10 years working in Russia and Asia with international agencies such as JWT and Leo Burnett. He has developed campaigns for Mazda, Audi, Sony and HSBC,” he said.

“Llewella Jago is our digital media strategist and planner. Previously as the head of marketing and promotions for major radio networks in the UK and Asia, she has driven multi-milliondollar marketing campaigns. Llewella specialises in new media strategies for online, mobile, experiential and outdoor advertising.

“Judy Waters, experienced in corporate and cultural institutions, has held senior marketing positions in Canberra and Sydney. Judy is highly regarded for her ability to develop strategic marketing campaigns and has worked with clients such as the Canberra Theatre Centre, Museum of Australian Democracy and National Gallery of Australia.

“Sam Webster’s understanding of retail media is second-to-none in Canberra. He operates as Webster Retail, a division of ZOO, working with national clients such as Dymocks, Magnet Mart, The Good Guys and a large range of local retailers and clubs.”

Hutchinson said he was looking forward to this new era at ZOO.

“These are the most challenging of times, but we believe that this creative collective will deliver innovative, cost effective marketing solutions that can achieve real cut through for our clients,” he said.

Why the ‘Y’ wants memories

By Megan Haggan

THE YWCA of Canberra is celebrating its 80th birthday by compiling an organisational history, and is calling on Canberrans with memories, photos and memorabilia of the organisation to contribute.

The YWCA locally began in 1929, when the Federal Government invited the organisation to provide much-needed services to the women of the new capital.

Jacq Burridge, president of the Canberra branch from 1984-7 and 1993-5, told “CityNews” that her association with the “Y” (as it’s affectionately known) goes back to her childhood in the 1930s.

She attended ballet and then gym classes (run

by private groups at the YWCA premises).

“A lot of people would use the hall, because apart from the Albert Hall there weren’t any large spaces in Canberra in the ‘30s for people to use, so there were a lot of clubs and classes held there,” she said.

“I didn’t last long at ballet or the gym – I had two left feet! – but they had a wonderful library, so I went there.”

In later years Jacq played badminton at the building with a boyfriend, and then returned for a time during the war years.

“During World War II, it was used as a place for servicemen to come and relax; they had music and so on, and it was run by volunteers.

“I was one, and I thought it was marvellous!

But all I did was look, of course.

“It’s always been a very strong feminist movement: for example, it provided women with superannuation well before it was available in the community at large.

“It’s very involved in feminism and supporting women without most of the community being aware of that fact.”

The YWCA launched its appeal for memorabilia with a recent “Memory Gathering”, where it collected posters, badges and banners as well as inviting Canberrans to tell their stories and share their memories.

For more information or to contribute, call 6239 6878 or visit www.ywca-canberra.org.au.

Exposed: the economics of the Undies Index

SO, we’re not in a recession. You could have watched the Rudd/Swan press conference with the sound down and still got the gist of the economic data based on their smug expressions.

Messrs Turnbull and Hockey are now suggesting that, although we’re not technically in recession, perhaps we need to find a more accurate measure of the state of the economy… and they’re right.

Never mind the balance of payments or the national accounts, behold the “Undies Index”. According to a number of highly qualified but eccentric economists, the barometer of our fiscal fortunes can be found in the nearest man’s underwear drawer. If the blokes are wearing threadbare undies, or jocks with holes and the elastic showing in great numbers, it means we

By Mark Parton

should batten down the financial hatches.

The theory is that, if you’re a bloke, unless you’re Shane Warne or Silvio Berlusconi, then just about nobody sees your undies… so it’s the first thing you stop buying in tough times.

Surprisingly, the first person to tout men’s underwear as a potential fiscal index was former US Federal Reserve chairman Alan Greenspan. At the time he failed to reveal details of his underwear, but I’m imagining they would have been pristine Y fronts.

So, ever the investigative journalist, I set

about getting the inside story on blokes’ jocks in Canberra. Firstly, I had to set up an underwear rating system… a scale of one to 10. Ten is if you’re undies virtually came straight out of the wrapper from David Jones and one would be the pair that had more holes than material.

RMC band leader Maj Geoff Grey challenged Greenspan’s theory. “In tough times,” said Maj Grey, “Underwear comes down in price dramatically.” The major had a quick peek and rated his underwear as a 9.5. As a military man, it wouldn’t surprise me if they were ironed as well.

Alan Kerlin, the president of the Gungahlin Community Council, gave his undies a seven rating. Alan deals with underwear like the Defence Department deals with kangaroos… he culls

them dramatically when he deems necessary. As a consequence his “jock stocks” are looking okay, despite the downturn.

Frank, the taxi driver from Mawson, looked embarrassed when I asked him, conceding he was desperately in need of a re-stock. He rated the pair he was wearing as a three to four. Perhaps the real economic story comes from Craig, the garbo, and Michael, from Flynn, who both rang my radio program. They’ve abandoned the concept of underwear and, to quote Tom Petty, they’re free fallin’. Perhaps that could be a better summary of our fiscal position than the national accounts.

Mark Parton is the morning announcer for Talking Canberra 1206 2CC.

When you’re employed by the ACT Public Service, you’ll have the satisfaction of seeing the results of your hard work become reality right here in your own community.

Add to this a broad range of challenging career choices – not to mention excellent benefits and working conditions - and a career in Canberra becomes an even better prospect.

What’s more, you’ll enjoy the kind of job security that only comes with being a government employee.

So if you enjoy life in Canberra, keep your career here too. To find out more visit www.jobs.act.gov.au

Slow politics of fat kids

AUSTRALIANS, children especially, are getting fatter. The chair of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Health and Ageing identified the increases in the size of the average Australian in his introduction to the “Weighing it up: Obesity in Australia” report that was recently tabled in Parliament.

On average there are two children in every classroom in Australia who are obese.

At a time when swine flu is capturing the imagination of the media and so many Australians, the obesity and overweight epidemic is insidiously and more effectively undermining the health of Australians.

The inquiry quotes an Access Economics report suggesting that the annual cost of overweight and obesity to the community is a “staggering” $58.2 billion.

This inquiry has not generated a dissenting report because many of the recommendations are clearly the result of compromise. However, in politics compromise is often used as a tool for delay.

Take marketing of energy-dense-nutrient-poor foods to children. The committee recommends the government commission research into the impact of advertising of these products to children. This will mean long delays before restrictions take effect.

Action is needed urgently – we cannot stand by while a further cohort of children put on more weight, shorten their lifespan and are relegated to living with chronic diseases. In seeking to be inclusive, the

letters

politics

By Michael Moore

committee has fallen for the prime political trap – the use of delay as a policy tool.

No-one should miss the irony of the Australian Communications and Media Authority arguing that they “cannot find a link between obesity and television advertising”! If there was even a skerrick of reality in their assertion junk food companies would certainly not be wasting copious sums of money on this sort of advertising.

The matter is urgent. Too many of our kids are influenced by clever, targeted marketing. Governments need to regulate junk food marketing in order to provide support for mums and dads so that families are eating healthier food.

One of the most adept of the industry advocates in this area is former ACT Chief Minister, Kate Carnell, who has persuaded her own association members in the Australian Food and Grocery Council to selfregulate. She argued to the committee that the Government should wait to see if such self-regulation works before using legislative powers. Unfortunately, her constituency does not include the big hamburger and other fast food chains. Consequently, the delay will mean that pressure remains on parents and more of our children will

be putting on weight. Regulation is necessary and it is urgent.

Food labelling is another area that the committee has recommendations that look to having industry work with government. However, the current industry standard that identifies percentage of recommended daily intake is too complex. There is a growing body of evidence that composite systems that have a visual message such as “traffic lights” are much more effective. However, it is unlikely that industry will be receptive to these systems. Here, too, we can expect that they will attempt to provide alternatives as a delaying tactic.

It is the next generation of children who are vulnerable. Governments need to ensure that they are not duped by industry into suspension, postponement or delay.

Michael Moore is a former independent member of the ACT Legislative Assembly and minister for health. He is the CEO of the Public Health Association of Australia.

Cyclists abuse privileges

I AM writing regarding the attitude of cyclists in Canberra. They seem to believe they are immune from laws. They treat motorists and bus drivers with contempt, pulling out unexpectedly in front of moving traffic and blocking lanes by riding on the highways instead of the cycle paths!

Many times walking in Garema Place I have been almost knocked down by them as they just ride willy-nilly!

A little consideration would be nice; Canberra has the best facilities for cyclists and they just abuse their privileges. They also should be aware of the law regarding riding their bikes across a pedestrian crossing, it is illegal, as we found out when my son was hit by a car on a pedestrian crossing while riding his bike. He was not covered for compensation, but would have been if he had walked his bike across.

Teresa Maynard, Canberra

No bull, we blush

I AM overseas and find that the best site to keep up to date with Canberra news is citynews.com. au. The news is succint, relevant with no bull. Thanks for keeping me informed.

Daph Mueller, via email

Call for responsibility

MICHAEL Moore’s article “Blunt progress on needle program” (“City News” June 4) raises the questions: Why just A Bill of Rights? Why not a Bill of Rights and Responsibility?

The absence of the latter qualification in legislation and public comment begs logic and reason, let alone what humanity intends – personally and collectively.

Of course, we could be right without being

responsible, but should the state be seen as the key to our needs?

Harold Grant, Campbell

MICHAEL Moore’s item “Blunt progress on needle program” (“City News”, June 4) takes us on a magic drug carpet with selected stops. Let’s land momentarily at Kings Cross where on November 13, 2005 the “Daily Telegraph” reported that around 60 shops were for lease, boarded up or empty, including three banks, because of drug dealing near the injecting centre. I hazard a guess local businesses would not support such a centre in Canberra.

Mr Moore’s appeal to the Human Rights Act to allow a maintenance program of illegal drugs in a place of correction reminds me of the statement attributed to then-President Reagan: “I favour the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and it will be enforced – at gunpoint if necessary”. And what of the rights of non-drug using inmates. Do they have any?

As far back as December 24, 2004 the thenHealth Minister, Simon Corbell said that, at a time of a doubling of heroin overdose deaths, injecting behaviour was occurring throughout the suburban areas of the ACT, often in peoples’ homes – and not in a central location. He reasoned, correctly, that the establishment of an injecting centre at a cost of $2m for perhaps 5-10 users could not be justified.

He must have known the Chief Minister’s mind because the latter said: “The aim of the ACT Government is to have every inmate drugfree by the time they leave prison... it is hard to see how the provision of needles could fit in with this overarching philosophy.”(“The Chronicle”, November 22, 2005).

Colliss Parrett, Barton

New green building’s energy

THE ACT is leading the way in the construction of environmentally sensitive buildings, including of ce space – and government departments are leading the way.

“As Canberra’s the seat of Federal government, it’s driving environmental initiatives and ef cient of  ce designs,” says Paul Powderly, state chief executive at Colliers International. “They’re such a huge user of of  ce space, and so are trying to get the most ef  cient use of it.

“Green buildings contribute to a lowering of greenhouse emissions, but also provide lower operating costs for tenants – for example their water usage costs are lower in buildings which are designed according to environmentally sustainable principles.”

Colliers International, in conjunction with LJ Hooker Commercial, is marketing the CBD’s newest environmentally ef cient building, Childers Square.

The new building has been designed to achieve a 4.5-star National Australian Built Environment Rating System energy rating, and a  ve-Greenstar rating by the Green Building Council of Australia.

Tenants increasingly expect higher energy

ef ciency standards in their buildings, Mr Powderly says.

“Green leases have become very popular in both the private and public sectors.

“Government departments now insist on occupying buildings with a minimum of 4.5 NABERS Energy rating.”

Phil O’Brien, general manager of Amalgamated Property Group, which developed the site, says environmental sustainability is the way of the future.

“As the seat of government, we’re responding to the move towards green buildings and not just that, embracing it – we’re recognising their bene  ts,” he says.

“We took the Government’s requirements and used them as a base document, then stepped things up by asking what else could we do?

“One of our key objectives for this building was that it would perform beyond tenant expectations and ensure maximum ef  ciencies are achieved.”

bonus

The good-news city precinct

AN in  ux of workers into the Canberra City West precinct is good news for service providers looking for tenancies, says Paul Powderly, state chief executive at Colliers International Canberra.

“The area will attract food and service retailers to provide personal services such as cafes and hairdressers to people working in the area,” he says.

“Retail space in Childers Square will have the bene  t of bringing more diversity to the current offering, and cater for that increased population as well as the demands of the Australian National University.

“It’s adjacent to one of Canberra’s biggest multi-storey car parks, it’s close to the courts and the legal precinct, and close to major government departments.

“It’s also the only brand new building in the city with tenancies currently available. There’s no new space available in the CBD that can be moved into before Christmas.”

Amalgamated Property Group

CHILDERS Square is the latest in a series of successful developments by Amalgamated Property Group.

The group, which was formally established in 2002 following longterm collaboration on projects by its principals, Canberra developers Graham Potts and Barry Morris, has become a signi  cant stakeholder in the Canberra, Brisbane and Gold Coast property markets.

APG developed the Glebe Park Residences, comprising 184 residential and four commercial units, which was completed in February this year.

The Residences includes 10 luxury tri-level penthouses and achieved a gross realisation of $115 million.

New Benjamin, at 5 Chan Street Belconnen, was also developed by

Amalgamated Property Group.

This building, which is now fully leased to the Commonwealth of Australia, provides 17,400sqm of of ce accommodation to the Belconnen town centre, which is now undergoing signi  cant rejuvenation.

Completed in December, it incorporates latest building technology and environmental initiatives to achieve 4.5 star NABERS.

APG also own the Benjamin and Cameron of ces in Belconnen.

In Brisbane and on the Gold Coast, APG has completed signicant projects in both residential and commercial high-rise property.

For more information visit www.amalgamatedpropertygroup. com.au.

At a glance

• Total net lettable area of 15,210sqm.

• More than 240 secure basement car parks.

• 30 motorcycle spaces.

• Male and female shower and locker facilities.

• Large ef cient  oor plates ranging from approximately 2000sqm to 3100sqm.

• Fully integrated building management system controlling all services.

• State-of-the-art building foyer with four high-speed lifts and a second lift lobby servicing the larger  oors.

• High-quality building amenities including provisions for kitchen/breakout areas, outdoor balcony and landscaped gardens.

• Flexible ground  oor to house retail outlets.

• Building ef ciency estimated at 91.8 per cent.

For more information call Colliers International on 6257 2121 or LJ Hooker Commercial on 6248 7411.

CHILDERS SQUARE

tenant looking to offer its staff the best the market has.

At the ‘Export Leaders’ Breakfast’, Functions@CIT

Visit http://www.pmichapters-australia.org.au/awards.htm to and take part in Australia’s Most Prestigious Individual Award for Project Managers. It’s all about performance! So there is no entry fee and you don’t need to be a member of the Project Management Institute.

Event Fusion…

Conferences look at sustainable systems

EFFICIENCIES identified by the Gershon Report into government IT systems and technology can be applied equally to all major organisations, public or private, says Rob Thomsett, consulting director at The Thomsett Company and senior consultant at The Cutter Corp.

Mr Thomsett will be a keynote speaker at two key industry conferences on project management and systems improvement, to be held at the National Convention Centre from August 10-12.

The conferences will focus on “projects sustaining the future”, from environmental sustainability to the durability and growth of organisations.

“The Gershon Report was a long-overdue independent review of the billions of taxpayer’s money spent on IT systems and IT technology by government departments,” Mr Thomsett says.

management of what Gershon termed ‘Business as usual ICT spend’, ‘IT resource capability development’ and rationalisation of data centres.”

Having worked in Australian government and the private sector in four continents, Mr Thomsett believes these findings also apply to the private sector.

Outsourcing has increased information and communication technology costs (ITC), he says, and in many cases simply shifted the problem.

“The lack of internal ICT capability is the obvious result of selling off of hundreds of public servants with IT expertise to international giant consultancy companies,” he says.

“All my private-sector clients are rebuilding internal IT capability with a more selective use of targeted outsourcing. Simply, ICT is too important to manage at arm’s length.”

Rob will also discuss challenging aspects of the Gershon Report, such as continued inefficiencies in best-practice behaviours that are already implemented.

Cultural changes are needed to bring real efficiencies to ICT spend in the Australian Public Service, Rob says.

6th Annual Project Management Australia Conference.

Projects Sustaining the Future

Incorporating: PMI Australia National Conference PMI Project Manager of the Year Distinguished Contribution Awards 2009 REGISTER ONLINE www.pmoz.com.au

Improving Systems and Software Engineering Conference

Achieving the

Incorporating

“The report identified a number of ‘low-hanging fruit’ efficiencies such as improving the overall governance (executive management) of projects and IT spend across all government departments as well as governance internally within departments.

“It also made recommendations around the

This needs to “begin an open and transparent debate about accountability of executives and the need for consequences, both positive and negative, for those senior people in the APS who are paid to prudently use public money for the public good.”

For more information on the conference, visit www.pmoz.com.au or www.issec.com.au

When:

Time: 12pm to 2pm

Venue: Hotel Realm, Barton Proudly sponsored by St Hilliers Feed in Tariff Scheme Forum

When: Tuesday 23 June

Time: 4pm to 6pm

Division Lunch

Venue: Minter Ellison, Barton Proudly sponsored by ActewAGL and TransACT

Speaker: Katy Gallagher MLA, ACT Deputy Chief Minister Thursday 11 June

Escape to much, much more

FROM rural Beenleigh in the north to picturesque Kingscliff beach in the south, west to the hinterland region and the famed Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach in between… the Gold Coast experience is bigger than you might expect.

And how can the collective voice of more than 10.5 million visitors each year be wrong?

Such strength lies in the natural and man-made diversity of a destination that is scenic and peaceful as much as it is fast-paced and active.

There is nightlife, beaches, theme parks to entertain the kids, and food and wine galore – especially with the Taste of the Gold Coast festival starting in late August.

For a Canberran, escaping the winter blues is as easy as logging on to www.virginblue.com.au and booking an affordable escape!

Quick facts:

✔ Virgin Blue flys daily direct to the Gold Coast from Canberra or if the direct flight doesn’t suit, there are up to seven additional connecting flights via Sydney.

✔ Direct flight time is a snappy one-and-a-half hours.

✔ Book early for the school holiday and Christmas period – it’s one of the most in-demand destinations at this time.

✔ There is plenty of availability with Virgin Blue having great lead-in fares from just $105.

✔ Virgin Blue offers value holiday package deals such as airfares and accommodation for three nights at the Mantra Hotel from just $405 per person or $412 for a three-night stay in a superior room at the Watermark Hotel & Spa including airfares.

✔ Go to www.virginblue.com.au for more info and deals.

Oozing luxury

THE Sofitel Gold Coast oozes class and five-star luxury in what is one of the Gold Coast’s finest properties. All 295 hotel rooms and suites feature contemporary appointments with lush, earthy tones, designed for maximum comfort in the world famous French-inspired Sofitel style.

Enjoy an Audrey Hepburn-style makeover when booking the hotel’s “My Fair Lady” package. It features luxury overnight accommodation, signature cocktails for two at the award-winning Room81, a bottle of chilled Moët on arrival, buffet breakfast for two at On3 poolside restaurant and valet car parking.

Subject to availability. Based on twin share accommodation from $250. For more information at www.sofitel.com.

Celebrating upgrade

THE Outrigger Twin Towns Resort, in the towns of Coolangatta and Tweed Heads, has undergone an extensive $1.2million upgrade to its hotel and deluxe rooms in the original Ocean Tower, and is celebrating with a special nightly rate of $160 in a hotel room, twin share. The resort’s location to nearby Mount Warning National Park also makes Outrigger the good base to discover the natural beauty of the Tweed Coast and ancient rainforests deep within the valley.

The special rate of $160 a night is valid until December 24, 2009. Bookings to (07) 5536 2121; email twintowns@outriggger.com.au or visit www.outrigger.com.au.

gold coast

An affordable Versace offer

TOURING the accommodation and facilities of the Palazzo Versace (Italian for Versace Palace) it’s hard not to notice that everything – the furniture, the tea cups, the rugs, and the art on the walls – is Versace.

Be the first to know…

With the ‘CityNews’ digital edition, free to your screen. Subscribe at citynews.com.au

It’s unsurprising, given that Palazzo Versace is the world’s first fashion-branded hotel, but a surprise to see the unbelievable detail, says developer The Sunland Group.

Since it opened in 2000, the hotel has attracted guests from all over the world drawn to its location, luxurious amenities and unparalleled five-star service.

Now Canberrans can get the rock-star treatment, with Palazzo Versace offering

its most affordable room rates since it launched with overnight stays from just $268.

The new room rates are set to rival most hotels on the Gold Coast, but the facilities and degree of luxury offered at Palazzo Versace will remain unparalleled. The five-star accommodation will provide each guest with a superior room and access to the hotel’s day spa, Salus per Aquum, internal beach, lagoon-style pool, three lavish restaurants and bars, private marina, Versace Boutique, and views across the Broadwater.

“Luxury Hotels are no longer the domain of the rich, particularly as Palazzo Versace

Gold Coast has adjusted its prices in accordance with the current market demand,” business development director Peter Grace said.

“For this reason, those looking to get away for a long weekend or for an overnight stay – and were looking at affordable accommodation – now have the option of indulging in a world of luxury without breaking the bank at our hotel.”

Palazzo Versace Gold Coast’s room rate specials are available for a limited time. Booking can be made toll free on 1800 098 000 or email reservations@palazzoversace. com.

Absolute beachfront

WHILE some accommodation options promise “beachfront”, only a select few can boast “absolute beachfront.”

Step out of the grounds of

One The Esplanade, through the pool area, and you are on a patrolled surf beach in Surfers Paradise.

Formerly known as Allawah Apartments, the building has recently undergone a multi-million-dollar refurbishment. The wellappointed, generous-sized accommodation – one, two and three-bedroom deluxe apartments (north facing) – offer uninterrupted views of the Gold Coast coastline’s sweeping beaches and blue ocean.

One The Esplanade is suitable for anyone looking for quality, stylish and selfcontained accommodation on the Gold Coast right in the middle of it all, but peacefully located just a few hundred metres from the centre of the action of Cavill Avenue. Visit www.oneontheesplanade.com.au; email info@ oneontheesplanade.com. au or call (07) 5538 3154 for more info.

Amid the tropical rainforest of Mount tamborine lies the Witches Chase Cheese Co. where Jersey cows produce milk, from which the company handcrafts award-winning premium cheeses, including fresh, soft, blue and hard varieties.

Don’t miss Mount Tamborine

LONG a favourite for romance and weddings with cosy hideaways, day spas and cabins, Mount Tamborine, 30 minutes from central Gold Coast beaches, is an often-overlooked area of the Gold Coast.

Tamborine National Park is Queensland’s first national park reserve and features unusual cycads, which are relics of plants from 150 million years ago. The rare Albert’s lyrebird, the world’s largest skink and birdwing butterflies

are some of the natives to meet on a Tamborine visit.

Nature is only part of Tamborine’s charm. Gallery Walk – a row of stores – offers gift ideas, craft and art. Markets are aplenty with fresh produce and other regular events. Late September view “Springtime on the Market”, a floral festival.

Combine them all with a stay in a luxury cottage at Songbirds.

the road from beautiful Currumbin Beach and backs directly onto Currumbin Lake and the World famous Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.

PH: (07) 5534 3344 | M: 0402 052 663 E: info@sanctuarylake.com www.sanctuarylake.com

citylife

Building a dance hit

ARts in tHe city

By Jorian Gardner

CANBERRA audiences will be among the first in the country to experience the multi-award winning and critically acclaimed dance production “Construct”, at The Playhouse from June 17-19. The capital is the show is the first leg of a nationwide tour. Choreographed by Tanja Liedtke, the show humorously explores the curious connections between building a home, a life, a relationship and a future. The work was commissioned by London’s South Bank Centre and premiered there to critical acclaim in May 2007 followed by a UK tour; and sell-out performances at the 2008 Sydney Festival, winning two 2008 Helpmann Awards.

SYDNEY’S FourPlay String Quartet is coming to Canberra promote its latest release, “Fourthcoming”, recorded live over three shows at The Street Theatre. The recording features original pieces and a selection of covers, including songs from Leonard Cohen, The Cocteau Twins and Rage Against The Machine. FourPlay is at The Street, July 17 and 18. Bookings to 6247 1223.

MEMBERS of BeAN – the Belconnen Artists

Network – have a new exhibition of art works responding to Samuel Coleridge’s richly worded poem “Kubla Khan”. It’s all part of their “Summer Challenge”, which has become a regular part of the BeAN calendar. The exhibition runs until June 19.

LOCAL composer Sally Greenaway is off to London to study composition for screen and

film at the Royal College of Music. To help her get there, she is having a fundraiser on June 19 at The Street. The concert will feature choral works by Woden Valley Youth Choir and Blue Sky Singers, big band pieces with the Blamey Street Connexion Big Band and a supporting bunch of other Canberra musos. Bookings to 6247 1223.

Loneliness of the long-distance Polynesian

By Helen Musa

IF a “vaka” is an ocean-going canoe in Polynesian and “moana” is the sea, then “Vaka Moana”, the new exhibition at the National Museum of Australia, is the story of the maritime explorations of the Pacific.

Dr Mike Pickering, pre-historian, archeologist and head of the museum’s repatriation program, is keenly anticipating the way in which this show, a “buy in” from the Auckland Museum, will throw light on the long-distance voyages of Polynesian sailors.

To Dr Pickering, the way in which the voyages of European explorers a few hundred years ago have been allowed to eclipse those of their Pacific counterparts is a crying shame and a disgraceful example of cultural imperialism.

And if you go back to the voyages, about 10,000 years ago by the Austronesian forebears of modernday Polynesians, you find that they, in turn, found Australia, Papua New Guinea and most of Melanesia to be already occupied. The Melanesian voyages (that’s another story) had been made in massive dugout ships capable of carrying hundreds of people, but most of those explorations took place within sight of land.

Continued Page 22

‘Laughing, but should I be?’

By Helen Musa

EVERYMAN Theatre is taking on the near impossible by staging a comedy about pederasty. Opening on June 18 at the Courtyard is a production of Stephen Fry’s farce “Latin! or Tobacco and Boys.”

written by Stephen Fry

Courtyard Studio

18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26, June 8pm 27 June 2pm and 8pm

It’s a two hander featuring veteran actor Oliver Baudert as Herbert Brookshaw, one of the longest-serving members of staff at a fictional British prep school, Chartham Park, who discovers that his ambitious young colleague, the Latin master Dominic Clarke, played by Duncan Driver, has a thing going on with a 13-year-old pupil.

audience) is heckled, taunted for being late and generally played around with, but for a short time only, according to the director Jarrad West.

Some of the play is totally ridiculous, especially the surprise ending, but West says it is also about school politics and the not-so-innocent Brookshaw is bitterly resentful that Clarke has his eye on getting the school’s top job by marrying the headmaster’s daughter. Here’s the silly bit – Brookshaw swears silence in exchange for the occasional delightful beating.

Director West is adamant that the play, though thought provoking, is ultimately a comedy. “We are laughing at the people who do it, but not at pedophilia itself… people will find it either hilarious or shocking… people will say, ‘I’m laughing, but should I be?’ “

While this is on one level a play about a man who loves young boys, playwright Fry, famous for his personal bouts of depression, has chosen the path of sheer comedy to explore this taboo subject.

A classroom full of imagined boys (that’s us, the

At the Courtyard Studio, June 18-27, bookings to 6275 2700.

It’s as Italian as

By Wendy Johnson

EVER since I was little, I’ve had a soft spot for Italian cuisine, remembering my grandmother’s Italian neighbours leaning over her fence, offering up bright-red tomatoes, fragrant basil and dishes made with passion.

A recent trip to La Posada in Civic brought back these memories. This is Italian food as authentic as you can get given this is Australia, not Italy. All dishes are made on site and no-one is telling “little white lies’ when they talk about using quality ingredients.

It’s worth heading to La Posada just to indulge in the Italian bread made every day with their secret recipe. You dip it into superb olive oil and authentic balsamic vinegar made by the Molinari family in Italy. This aged, pitch-black vinegar is sweet, dense and of a quality not often found in restaurants.

Tony Rinaudo and Dominic Marzano recently took over La Posada. The famous pizzas remain, but the new dishes introduced will soon be equally famous. We sighed with pleasure over the dishes we shared. The chilli calamari with herb mayo ($14.90) was tender with just the “right bite” of chilli. The provolone cheese oozed out of our arancini (crisp risotto balls), served with creamy house-made aioli and slightly sweet chutney ($9.90). The artisan meatballs, made with veal, pork, beef, wonderful spices and fresh napolitana sauce were out of this world ($9.90). Seriously, close your eyes and you’re in Italy. New chef Martin Nusé has been around the traps, but the big feather in his cap is his four years at Melbourne’s quintessential (two-hat) Italian restaurant, Grossi Florentino. Returning home to be with family, Martin’s heart is now

A taste of Dickson

with La Posada where he is creating inexpensive, quality food with flair.

Take the hand-made ravioli. It is filled with roast butter pumpkin and light ricotta and finished with a concassé made with fresh tomato, sage and crunchy pine nuts. What a sensational dish. And his authentic fettuccine carbonara made our taste buds dance – chunks of cured Italian bacon and intense, salty perconcino pepato cheese combined perfectly.

Pizza lovers have more than 20 options, including the Margherita Extra made with fresh (and real) buffalo milk mozzarella, cherry tomatoes and parmigiano-reggiano.

As with all our dishes, the desserts were beautifully presented. The mascapone Galliano lemon tart was “very more-ish”. It was light and velvety on the tongue and decorated with chocolate, fresh blueberries and a hazelnut praline. The blueberry tart was as delightful.

When at La Posada you’ll enjoy the many things Italian including the wonderful posters Tony collected while in Italy, learning about this bellissimo cuisine. Check out the one of the elegant yet “tough” ladies playing soccer.

La Posada, 60 Alinga Street, Civic, call 6248 5444. Open for lunch Monday-Friday and for dinner Monday-Saturday.

Where lasagne runs free!

AN established suburb with a bit of history behind it – Dickson was first gazetted in 1928, and development began in the ‘60s – it’s home to a host of restaurants and cafes, and has a welcoming, relaxed, multicultural feel.

It was this relaxed vibe that attracted Kate Volkhardt, one of the group managers of My Rainbow Dreams, a café located in the Dickson Chambers at Dickson Place.

“The clientele here are quite open-minded, and that’s reflected in the health food shops, naturopaths and other ‘alternative’ busi -

nesses here, so we thought it would be a good environment for us,” she says.

Owned and operated by students of Sri Chinmoy meditation, the vegetarian café aims to cater for people with specific needs, such as gluten-free, wheat-free or vegan food, she says.

“Our most popular dish is curry, rice and dahl, and we also do a very good gluten-free lasagne.”

For more information about My Rainbow Dreams, visit www.myrainbowdreams.com.au or call 6247 8591.

arts&entertainment

Under the spell of magical Clarence

“IS

ANYBODY THERE?” (M)

IN this comedy/drama set in a British old people’s home where overworked new owners (David Morrissey and Anne-Marie Duff) care for the inmates and renovate DIY, their 10-year-old son Edward (Bill Milner) resents living among old folk he doesn’t know and can’t understand the tensions between his parents.

Edward is morbidly fascinated with ghosts, but doesn’t comprehend what they involve. When the occupant of his room dies, he resents not being allowed to move back there. Then a new guest arrives in a beat-up van proclaiming him to be Clarence, master of magic, or more correctly, as any rational person knows, conjuring, prestidigitation and creation of illusions.

Clarence, lonely since his wife’s death, regards introspective small boys with multiple chips on their shoulders as obnoxious. From this springs the dramatic issue energising the film. Leading Edward out of his resentments, Michael Caine portrays Clarence with gentle understanding and

cineMA

By Dougal Macdonald

subdued humour.

The inmates include some of Britain’s leading geriatric actors – Leslie Phillips, Rosemary Harris, Peter Vaughan, Ralph Riach and Sylvia Sims. Peter Harness’s screenplay has great human awareness. Director John Crowley brings it all together in a gentle, compassionate and perceptive work.

At

Dendy

“I REALLY HATE MY JOB” (M)

A DRAMATIC concept written by Andrew and Jennifer Heggie for director Oliver Parker to stage, this ensemble piece for five talented actresses unfolds in a single evening at a London restaurant where unbridled staff smoking and bare-handed plating of food are norms.

Polynesian travellers

Continued from Page 20

It irks Dr Pickering to think that most modern Australians think only of the Pacific as a holiday destination or the location of dramatic political upheavals.

“Prehistory is what attracts me,” he says. In his eight years at the National Museum he has scarcely seen so many magnificent objects as are found in this huge exhibition.

“Vaka Moana” includes fully described stories and huge objects – secular and sacred – including large, ocean-going vessels and a two-metre-tall goddess figure.

To Dr Pickering, the vaka were the equivalents of today’s spacecraft and their navigators the equivalent of higher mathematicians and meteorologists “zooming out into the Pacific on long voyages.” This exhibition will give them their due. To these newer Pacific explorers, the sea was never viewed as an obstacle, but rather as a highway; one that provided them with abundant marine life. And theirs were voyages far from land into the unknown.

“Voyages of the Pacific Ancestors: Vaka Moana” is at the National Museum of Australia, until October 18.

Civic Pub finds its funny spot

Alice, having finished writing a novel, agrees when manager Madonna (Anna Maxwell Martin) begs her to run the kitchen. On her birthday, acting-school graduate and waitress Abi is a bundle of anxieties, uncomfortably aware of how many more years await her. Suzie (Alexandra Maria Lara), content with her lot, is easily distracted from her waitressing tasks. South American refugee Rita (Oana Pellea) is Alice’s feisty helper. The film is a gutsy comedy about five women falling short of successfully submerging personal needs beneath those of their jobs. The strong writing is unafraid to discomfit its audience for the sake of working through a night packed with classic restaurant catastrophes and smashed crockery.

Pint-sized Shirley Henderson as Alice has few equals at playing women unleashing strong irritation. Neve Campbell, as Abi, is exasperatingly effective as a woman unwilling to come to terms with herself. Neither chick-flik nor kitchen-sink drama, viewing it with an open mind will deliver rewards.

At Dendy

coMEDy

“Stand Up Comedy at Civic Pub” Every first Wednesday of the month, 8pm. Civic Pub, Lonsdale Street, Braddon. Reviewed by Jorian Gardner.

“TERMINATOR SALVATION” (M)

REPEALING every known law of man and nature, John Brancato’s El Stupido screenplay for “Terminator Salvation” proposes that by 2018, a rogue US military agency is operating machines with human attributes and bad attitudes, exterminating Homo sapiens for fun in a quest for sole world occupancy rights.

This travesty of a movie offers nothing except impossible machines wreaking grand-scale destruction in an anorexic human conflict between a super good guy and a cyberman built from the executed murderer of his parents. Of all its destructive toys, I yearned to see more of only the war-weary but superbly-effective Fairchild A-10 close support tank-buster aircraft affectionately called Warthog by their pilots in real conflicts.

The director hides behind the initials “McG”. In his shoes, I too wouldn’t have wanted to see my name on it.

At all Canberra cinemas

(modern Nonya cuisine)

FINALLY, it seems, a venue has been found in the city where a regular stand-up comedy night looks like it just might take hold and become home to Canberra comedians.

The upstairs area at the Civic Pub is a long-forgotten room, but with its own bar and reasonable seating area, is almost perfectly made for stand-up.

The evening was hosted by arguably Canberra’s most successful comedian Jay Sullivan, who initially appeared nervous

McLean’s Pops get the royal touch

IN its five years, the Canberra Pops Orchestra, under the astute direction of its founder, Ian McLean, has become one of the jewels in Canberra’s musical crown.

Its latest program, “Kings and Queens” was an excellent example of why it has been so successful.

Presenting a selection of “royal” compositions by classical composers Handel, Strauss, and Mayerbeer, alongside

and many of his jokes fell flat, but by the second half he was back in form with a crowd-pleasing dig at Australia’s major comedy ego (Austen Tayshus) set to Canberra suburb names.

Emmo Parsonson was the stand-out stand-up performing a rant about married life and shopping that brought the house down.

Kale Bogdanovs performed an examina -

MuSic

c anberra pops o rchestra Canberra Theatre, June 4. Reviewed by Bill Stephens

contemporary songs with “royal” themes, by Elton John, Don McLean, and Michael Jackson, and selections from the musicals

“The King and I”, “Camelot” and “The Lion King”, the program was meaty and enjoyable.

In a fun reference to concert king Andre Rieu, the orchestra was decked out in tiaras, crowns and vaguely “royal” outfits. Conductor, Ian McLean looked particularly

tion of the story of Mary Poppins and how it related to class-breakdown in the modern society – sorry mate, you lost me – while the final act, Herbie and the Coleslaws, a male and female duo playing guitar and singing were, in a word, crude. Michael Joseph, a recent migrant to Canberra from Sydney, flunked with a set that went too long and was full of bad-taste material.

At $5, it’s hard to complain too much, and the pub serves good food and reasonably priced drinks. This night is well worth a look especially if the producers rotate the acts often.

suave in a medieval tunic. An energetic team of dancers, and a large chorus, participated in several of the items.

Most of the music had been arranged especially for the orchestra by local musicians Lucy Birmingham, Sally Greenaway and Craig Johnson, and was performed with admirable attention to detail, particularly in the arresting performance of Handel’s “Arrival of the Queen of Sheba”.

Special guest, Queenie van de Zandt delighted the audience with a thoughtful selection of songs and explanations of how the songs tied into the theme of the evening.

Back to the future

BALMAIN’S shoulder pads and ripped denim make it official… the 1980s are back.

But it’s not time to break out the home perm yet! The 1980s 21st-century style is all about interpretation and carefully selected pieces…

TOD jeans, $190 from t hings of

Handmade a big hit

THE next Handmade market, which will be held in September, will feature even more fashion, including garments made from recyled kimonos, says organiser Julie Nichols.

More than 10,000 people visited the most recent market at the Albert Hall. Fashion on show included couture bridal gowns from Rockstars and Royalty, designer handbags and two lingerie stands from Bombshell Design and Anna Smart.

The market also featured artists and gourmet food. Julie and Handmade have raised more than $5500 since November for Motor Neuron Disease NSW.

Viaggio metallic hooded jacket in bronze, $380, and Viaggio leather vest in black, $980, from t hings of Desire, Manuka. Perfect with skinny jeans.

Dress means success, says survey

EIGHTY- ONE per cent of respondents to a recent survey said that the way a woman dresses was a good indicator of her value as a businesswoman. The survery, conducted by the Chamber of Women in Business and aimed at identifying women’s views on dress in business, found that 61 per cent felt wearing make-up increased their ability to influence others and 70 per cent thought that there were different expectations of men and women as to how they should present themselves in business.

CWB president Zoe Routh said: “The issue of how businesswomen should present themselves is one that always causes lively discussion amongst CWB members. Some express a view that a businesswoman should always be immaculately dressed no matter what the occasion – although the definition of ‘immaculate’ is somewhat subjective.”

Chamber members Vicki Berry, of Easycare Landscapes, and child behaviour therapist Bobbi Cook believe that it is important to dress appropriately for the business situation and expectations of the customer.

According to Bobbi: “Sometimes my work requires me to get down on the floor and join my clients playing with toys. A ‘power suit’ is hardly appropriate in this situation.”

Vicki agreed: “As a landscaper, I’m out of doors working with soil and in the weather. I need durable, protective clothing that’s comfortable for me to work in. That doesn’t mean though that my (and my team’s) work wear can be untidy or unappealing. It still needs to represent the company’s image of quality and professionalism. That’s the same for men and women.”

health&fitness

Learning to burn energy to get fit

By Megan Haggan

UNDERSTANDING how our bodies burn energy is a good way to start learning about the process of getting fit, says Matt Knox, coowner of Life Personal Fitness in Kingston.

A kilojoule is simply a unit of energy, and metabolic rate means the rate at which each individual consumes a unit of energy, using it to run our bodies or converting it to fat.

“Metabolism is all about how efficient your body is at using fuel,” says Matt.

“A slow metabolism means that people’s bodies take longer to break that food down and start using it as fuel.”

If we diet without exercising, we run the risk of slowing our metabolism, creating a vicious cycle where it’s easier to put on weight when we do eat again.

“People who starve their bodies tend to have slow metabolisms,” says Matt. “Often these are the people who tend to skip breakfast – that’s often the first indication to me that somebody may have a slow metabolism.”

Five moments with… n AtA sHA lukin , owner of shapemaster Feelgood studio in turner.

Why did you go into the fitness industry?

My ordeal with my own health and partial disability, due to a car accident, was fixed by Shapemaster exercise; plus there was my background in physiology and medical research. I wanted to help people who were out of condition.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

There are two main ways to speed things back up: increasing our lean muscle mass through exercise, and strange as it may sound, eating more.

“One good way is to eat more often,” says Matt. “Years ago we were told to eat five meals a day to kick start our metabolisms, but the problem with that was that a lot of people started eating five big meals a day, not five small ones.

“Eating five meals – small meals! – each day is key to increasing your metabolic rate.”

Breakfast and afternoon tea are the most important meals of the day – breakfast because it “breaks our fast” and gives us the energy we need to start the day, and afternoon tea because we need to break up the long fast between lunch and dinner.

Many of us don’t really think about our afternoon tea as a meal at all, and will snack on sugary items when we feel hungry in the afternoon.

“Most people get that three or four o’clock slump, when they run out of energy,” says Matt Knox. “If we don’t eat then, by the time we get home it’s six or six-thirty, but we don’t eat dinner for another hour, so we snack then instead to fill that gap.

“If we eat something healthy at four, like nuts or a muesli bar, we aren’t so hungry before dinner.”

Matt says that we don’t need to follow restrictive rules such as cutting out all carbohydrates at dinner.

“That’s a bit of a myth,” he says. “It’s portion size that matters – you can have carbs at dinner time, particularly if you’ve got an active next day planned and you’ll need the fuel.”

Just as important as eating well is increasing our ability to burn the fuel we consume.

“Increasing lean muscle mass is the other factor, as lean muscle mass burns more calories than fat – muscle requires more energy to move than fat,” says Matt. The best way to increase lean muscle mass is through strength training, he says – and it’s important that people aiming to increase their fitness through gym membership are informed about the way in which this helps them consume energy.

Helping people, first and foremost. My highest enjoyment is in seeing them getting fitter and moving easier. Another thing which brings me joy is when a new client steps in, and I begin explaining things to him or her, and my existing clients start taking over from me, sharing their opinions and experiences in the best possible way!

What’s your favourite workout or exercise?

Each of the six toning beds has a name, and my favourite is Waist Away, which gently rocks you, dividing your body along your waistline.

What aspect of health do we need to work hardest on?

Our psychological and mental state. This is fundamental. People in distress cannot utilise well any treatment, and even the best exercise system won’t be able to deliver its benefits in full. On the other hand, properly structured exercise can help us de-stress and relax.

If you weren’t in the fitness industry, what would you be doing?

I would probably be writing another novel. “The Bride from Moscow” was published in the UK in 1999.

How fit’s your largest organ?

YOUR largest organ also happens to be your most beautiful one, and it’s the same for men and women. Before you get carried away, it’s our skin!

Many of us break out when we’re under pressure, juggling too many commitments or dealing with a high-stress situation.

We often put this down to the fact that we’re not looking after ourselves, and the truth is literally written all over our faces.

Our skin is a true reflection of our general fitness and the overall health of our internal organs. It has a tough job protecting us from infection, retaining our water content and regulating our body temperature.

It’s amazing that this one organ completely covers our bodies and, if we look after ourselves, will show our true beauty.

When thinking about our fitness, it’s

By Jenny Tiffen

natural that our heart, lungs and muscles spring to mind. However, when asked to picture a fit person, images of radiant skin, toned figure and sparkling eyes are often the first thing we think of.

Luckily for us, we don’t need to add extra tasks to our exercise regime to keep our skin fit. Participating in any exercise that creates increased circulation will provide a fast delivery of nutrients to the skin cells, in turn sweeping away potentially damaging toxins.

Blood pumping around the body provides the skin with optimum conditions

Look good, feel great

for making collagen, the support fibres that help keep wrinkles and lines at bay – another added benefit of exercise.

But perhaps the most dramatic effect of exercise is on acne-prone skin, because working up a sweat regulates the production of testosterone-related hormones.

There has been much research into the link between stress, hormones and exercise. People who keep fit have much lower stress levels, meaning their adrenal glands are producing less of these hormones, which cause acne flare-ups.

When it comes to keeping fit and living a healthy lifestyle, doing a little really does give us back a lot – we can think of exercise as a new beauty treatment, polishing us from the inside!

Jenny Tiffen is the founder and director of FitMums.

Adidas performance

Women’s running ¾-length pant, $59.99, wind jacket, $79.99 and sleeveless tee, $39.99, from Sportsman’s Warehouse.

AAA Grade “Quick Wraps”, $15, from planet Max.

Spot the problem

OUR facial skin is an essential part of our appearance and the first impressions we make – so problems such as acne can significantly impact our self-esteem, says Suzie Hoitink, founder of the Clear Complexions Clinics in Belconnen and Erindale.

“Because of this, a lot of people try to hide it with make-up; depending on their skin and what brand they use, this can create a vicious cycle where the make-up traps dead skin cells and makes the problem worse,” she says.

Suzie says that it’s not only significant acne which can greatly upset teenagers and adults: some find that everyday pimples affect their confidence.

Many people believe that acne should only affect teenagers, and it can be devastating when the problem persists into adulthood.

Acne is caused when hormones called androgens increase the skin’s oil production, clogging pores and attracting bacteria.

“That’s why you need to exfoliate

the skin, to contain the bacteria,” Suzie says.

Stress also plays a part in causing outbreaks, as can skin irritants such as fragrance.

There’s also the issue of scarring if acne is left untreated or treated incorrectly.

“That’s why it’s important to get educated about what’s in your makeup and skin care, and find out what you should and shouldn’t be using to help improve your skin.”

– Megan Haggan

1. The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Blemish Stick, $12.95. 2. bellaboo E z blitz Serum 50m l , $15.99.

3. Nivea Visage Young Bye-Bye Spot night c are, $9.95. 4. n utrimetics clear Deep cleansing Exfoliant with mineralised zinc, $27. 5. n atio young Wash it o ff cleanser, $9.95. 6. clinique Anti- blemish Solutions cleansing f oam, $36.

7. ThreeFIX Skin Clarity System, from clear complexions clinic belconnen and Erindale, $149.

Natural eyes

NEW shadow duos from Ere Perez, $27.50, are made with finely milled rice powder and chamomile, are waterproof, vegan and cruelty free. Ranging from matt vanilla/shiny beige to stand-out purple-brown/deep copper and silvery grey blue/black, they can be used for everyday looks or glamorous smoky eyes.

Perfect skin

FLAWLESS-looking skin makes the ideal canvas for make-up – and new Instant Perfect from Sisley, from David Jones, aims to create just that. With silicone polymers to instantly fill in wrinkles and soft-focus powder particles to improve optical light diffusion on the skin’s surface, imper fections appear minimised while skin is smoothed and mattified.

Butter up

IN rosebud, vanilla, acacia (pictured), ylang ylang and frangipani, L’Occitane Limited Edition Shea Butter Ultra Rich Body Creams contain 25 per cent shea butter to moisturise and restore suppleness to the skin, particularly heels, elbows, hands and knees. $36.95, from L’Occitane Canberra Centre and Home By Creations Manuka.

How plants filter your office air

CONTRARY to what many people believe, indoor air is almost always more polluted than that found outdoors, says Jon Elphick, business manager at Ambius Indoor Plants.

Of ce air conditioning is installed to provide comfortable temperatures while allowing enough outdoor input to allow adequate ventilation for workers – but it doesn’t come without problems.

“Generally, it will  lter out some of the dust, and remove some of the humidity in addition to heating or cooling,” Jon says.

“But air-conditioning does not normally  lter

out any of the gaseous contaminants of incoming air.

“Urban air is always contaminated by gaseous emissions from fossil fuel consumption.”

The higher pollution levels in indoor air occur because when contaminated urban air is drawn indoors, it mixes with pollutants derived from indoor sources.

Outdoor fuel emissions include nitrogen and sulphur oxides; carbon dioxide (CO2) and monoxide (CO); and other “air toxics” or “volatile organic” compounds (VOCs), Jon says, such as benzene, toluene, and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).

“Indoor air has more CO2 – from breathing and slow outdoor input – as well as more dust, VOCs from furnishings, computers, copiers, solvents and so on, and more of the same types of fossil fuel products if there are any gas appliances used.”

Research conducted internationally and at the University of Technology, Sydney has shown that indoor plants can improve indoor air quality.

This process takes place not just in the leaves, but in the whole plant system: “That is, the leaves, roots and potting media,” Jon says.

“They actually suck up and detoxify all the nasty gases released in of  ces by furnishings, carpets, photocopiers and printers.

“To do this, plants  rst need to be ‘switched on’ to urban living by being exposed to the pollutants over a few days, then they can take about as much VOC as we give them.”

According to the latest research, he says, all indoor plants work well to reduce VOCs in the

Plants offer “an economical and effective way to help clean indoor air and improve productivity.”

indoor environment, so plant selection is about working with lighting, décor and, of course, personal preference.

“If you want a contemporary look, you can’t go past the new vertical gardens. With these garden walls, there are many smaller plants all working together to help clear the air, and they look sensational.

“They are big on design, and guaranteed to make an impact.”

Plants and containers can be designed to suit all budgets and interior designs, he says.

“And even though you won’t see it happening, your indoor plants will be all hard at work sucking up the nasties from the air.

“They all offer an economical and effective way to help clean indoor air and improve productivity.”

For more information, call 6241 1451 or visit www.ambiusindoorplants.com.au.

general knowledge crossword no.

ACROSS

1 Which of Dickens' characters "asked for more"?

8 One who tests us for our driver's licence is called a what?

9 What are poems consisting of "little pictures"?

10 What is another term for wages?

11 One who owes money to another is called a what?

13 Name modified viruses used for preventive inoculation.

16 What is a tabular arrangement of the days of each month in a year?

19 To be rectangular is to be what?

22 Which type of gold is found in streams?

24 What is another term for tags?

25 In mythology, who was the Muse of heroic poetry?

26 Name textile fibres made from cellulose.

DOWN

2 What is a spoon for a deep bowl?

3 Name a male personal attendant.

4 To be disposed to keep one's feelings, thoughts or affairs to oneself is to be what?

5 Which other term describes an amusement show having merry-gorounds, dodgems, etc?

6 Name a very brief two-piece swimming costume.

7 Name an infectious, eruptive, usually epidemic, fever.

12 What is another term for an invoice?

14 One who sings Christmas songs is a what?

15 Which prefix indicates something of very small size?

17 To be borne on the water is to be what?

18 Those of matching qualities etc, are referred to as what?

20 What is the entrance hall of a public building?

21 Name a popular synthetic polyamide.

23 Which metallic element has the symbol Fe? Solution next week

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

So much to do, so little time! Slow down and pace yourself this week. If you can do one thing at a time, in an orderly fashion, then you’ll get everything done without being a Ram wreck. Avoid getting drawn into petty arguments with others – compromise and cooperation will get you a lot further.

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)

Bulls can be passionate and possessive. With Venus and Mars joining up in your sign on Sunday, your magnetism meter will be stuck on high and others will find your charms hard to resist. So it’s the perfect time to ask someone out on a super romantic date, or call in long overdue favors from family and friends. Strike while the iron is hot!

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Geminis have the gift of the gab but sometimes you can say too much, too quickly and too often. Too much small talk will stall big ideas so it would be wiser to think [carefully] before you speak. Your motto for the week comes from Lillian Hellman [born June 20] “I like people who refuse to speak until they are ready to speak.”

CANCER

(June 22 – July 22)

Sudoku is an 81, square number grid with nine blocks each containing nine cells. To solve the puzzle, all the blank cells must be filled in using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and in the nine 3x3 blocks. You can successfully solve the puzzle just by using logic and the process of elimination. Solution next

Early in the week you’ll be at your moody worst but that should lift, leaving you feeling more confident and in control of your intense emotions. Fabulous friendships and frisky flirtations are favored on the weekend, as your Cancerian charm swings into top gear. Don’t underestimate your power to persuade!

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

Being proactive about creative professional projects will take you far. Don’t hog the stage though – give others time and space to have their say. There’s room in the spotlight for everyone! Unpredictable, impulsive behavior could land you in a heap of trouble on Thursday so tread carefully.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)

Don’t sit around worrying and waiting for things to happen. With pleasure-loving Venus and proactive Mars moving through your adventure zone, aim to be brave and bold as you create opportunities, doing the things that you love. This week, passion and productivity are a powerful mix.

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)

Steer clear of those who undermine your confidence Libra. Concentrate on relationships with positive people who encourage your efforts and celebrate your numerous talents. Your motto for the coming week is from Henry Ford: “My best friend is the one who brings out the best in me.”

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)

Many singles will be feeling fabulously flirtatious, as you leave a trail of broken hearts in your wake. For attached Scorps – it’s the perfect week to spend plenty of time with your partner so you can enjoy beautiful surroundings, music or art together. Healing an old family rift is possible – as long as you can let go of the past.

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Sagittarians have many virtues but patience isn’t one of them! But that is precisely what you need to cultivate over the next few months, as Jupiter moves backwards. Expect delays and frustrations involving communication, education or travel. Creative projects are favored – as long as you take your time and don’t rush the creative process.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Everything happens at once this week Capricorn, as others look to you to produce order from chaos [you do it so well!] Your talent for multi-tasking will be put to the test as you juggle conflicting demands and challenging schedules. But you certainly won’t have time to be bored!

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Expect health concerns or humanitarian issues to take up a lot of your time as Jupiter, Neptune and Chiron hook up in your sign. You may also feel compelled to help others through acting as a mentor or doing volunteer work. Aquarian artists will feel super inspired to explore universal truths as you tap into global creative consciousness.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

From this week until July 10 is an incredibly inspirational period for you so, if you’ve ever wanted to express yourself creatively, now is the time to do it! Don’t let self doubts undermine your confidence in your ability to create. “I affirm – simply, surely, and unequivocally – that I am a creative person.” [Eric Maisel].

Copyright 2009 Joanne Madeline Moore.

prestigeproperty

All the best in Bellbush Close

“SIMPLY the best!” is how selling agent Bob Hayward describes this five-bedroom, two-storey, executive house at Jerrabomberra.

The large, north-facing home is sited on a 1375sqm block in tranquil Bellbush Close, and is suitable for a family looking for a peaceful semirural retreat with the latest in modern technology at their fingertips. The house, constructed by APA Homes, has a combined family and dining area adjacent gourmet kitchen, which features a walkin pantry, granite benchtops and Miele appliances.

There is a ducted vacuum including “Vac-pan” in the kitchen.

The house features a home-theatre room with screen and inbuilt display cabinet.

It has a reverse-cycle, ducted and zoned air-conditioning system, under-tile heating in bathrooms, heated towel rails and zoned in-slab heating to ground floor living areas.

There is a four-car garage.

“This home has to be seen to appreciate the quality, design and superb semi-rural location,”

says Bob. “If you love modern technology in harmony with nature, then 7 Bellbush Close Jerrabomberra is the home for you.”

Address: 7 Bellbush Close, Jerrabomberra. price: By negotiation.

inspection: By appointment.

Agent: Bob Hayward, Hodgkinson Real Estate, 0437 357855.

Planning for digital living

ARCHITECTS, developers and planners should pause for a moment to see how life has changed, particularly in the past 15 years with the introduction of the internet, says Canberra developer Nectar Efkarpidis.

“Our lives are very much starting to take place in the digital realm. So the places and spaces we build need to facilitate that,” he said

“If we look at existing multi-unit residential housing typology as it exists across Australia – it hasn’t changed very much in the past 50 years.

Mr Efkarpidis, managing director of Molonglo Group, has urged the property industry to “think outside the square” and provide developments that are better suited to the current population.

Mr Efkarpidis said everything from womenonly, student and gay-only floors to studio spaces for artists could be considered.

“All of these things don’t get considered, because it’s always the lowest-common-denominator approach that we have,” he said.

“How do we address the needs of those people? At the moment they’re being shoehorned into a square peg and I think we need to be more responsive and redefine the spaces and the buildings and the services to meet those needs.”

Do you often find yourself saying I’m better than this? There has to be more? Then perhaps its time to get out of your job and into your career.

Many of our sales people can speak for themselves when saying that a move to a real estate career has not only financial benefits but also benefits to their lifestyle.

A career in real estate is flexible and can work with you to satisfy your financial and lifestyle goals. You will be enrolled in the impressive L.J. Hooker Future Champions Program. This program has seen many of our salespeople reach Captain’s Club status, which recognises the top 10% of L.J. Hooker sales people internationally, within their first few years of real estate This 2 year career path of personal development will ultimately achieve a very successful career in real estate. If you think like a winner and are determined to succeed, register your interest and come along to the information evening.

To register call Ella Wallace, 0413 531 239 or email ewallace.canberracity@ljh.com.au

Date: 16th June 2009

Time:

-

AUCTION 4 ACTION!

BAY 11 Lincoln Crescent

Walk to Town and Beach

Snap this one up! A charming level brick and tile residence on 778sqm with a beautiful outlook to the Cullendulla Pond across a spacious north-facing grassy rear garden. Plenty of room for the veggie garden! There’s a drive through garage for the boat or the gardener too. Located in a quiet crescent just to the north of Batemans Bay Bridge, you can easily walk to town, Surfside Beach or the local school and sports fields. A great rental investment, or a lovely place to call home.

Auction View 13.6.09 at 1pm, or by appointment

Kate Shaw 0409 743 332

John Haslem 0418 514 399 raywhite.com/BBY11292

BATEMANS BAY 2/15 Crown Street

Going , Going – Gone!

The owner has instructed me to sell this property as she is moving on. Suitable for first home buyers, investors or holiday makers alike. Can’t afford to get into the property market? Then this one is for you too. This ideally located, single level home is only a five minute walk from the town centre with one good-sized bedroom, an open plan living area and kitchen, a deck out the front, and single level carport. Neat as a pin and ready for you to move in.

Ray

Auction

View 11.6.09 + 13.6.09 at 11am, or by appoinment

Elise Harrington 0427 950 765 raywhite.com/BBY11296 11

BATEMANS BAY Apt 4 ‘Spinnaker Reach’

On

the Waterfront – Single Level

A delightful oasis right on the water within easy level walking distance to the town centre. One of twelve in a quiet boutique complex on Beach Road in a park-like setting, its 180 degree views look from the bridge to the ocean. Smartly refurbished with three double bedrooms, two large bathrooms, a luxury kitchen, and password security, there is underground secure double tandem garage with storage bay plus an extra space for visitors and lift access to all levels. Just lock up and leave without a care when you travel! This is the best in seaside living on the Eurobodalla Nature Coast

Auction

View 13.6.09 at 2pm, or by appointment

John Haslem 0418514399

Caryl Haslem 0418 564 599

raywhite.com/BBY11238 321

SUNSHINE BAY 5 Caley Place

Unbelievable Opportunity!

My vendors are moving on and the only winner here is you!

Located in a quiet cul-de-sac in popular Sunshine Bay, be close to beaches, schools and transport in this spacious family residence. The three double bedrooms and two single bedrooms all have built-ins, plus the master bedroom has good-sized ensuite. There’s both a formal lounge and dining area, and the kitchen has a family area as well. Set on a level, fully fenced block of 827sqm, this is a lot of house! Bidding expected to start in the low three hundreds.

Auction

View 11.6.09 + 13.6.09 at 1pm, or by appointment

Elise Harrington 0427 950 765 raywhite.com/BBY11303 52

Do you have a busy weekend of house hunting ahead?

By using the Trip Plan you can organise your day, with driving directions and travel time, at the click of a button.

ANOTHER UNIQUE FEATURE FROM

By Negotiation

“Karridene” offers a stunning single level 6 year old 5 bedroom homestead nestled high up on a level site with panoramic & private views over 123 pasture improved acres (49.74 Ha approx) with abundant water supply. A sun drenched plan gathers the northern sun & features spacious family room, formal living room, dining room, rumpus & double garage with internal access. The property is fully fenced with 8 paddocks, 3 dams & excellent high flow bore. Comprehensive infrastructure includes, machinery shed, 12x9m workshop, quality stockyards with cattle crush & loading ramp, water troughs & 168,000 litres (approx) rain water tank & tennis court are also some of the limitless attractions. Auction on

June

��/� JARDINE STREET - Kingston Tower continues to provide the benchmark to which others are compared and this luxurious residence with house size interiors offers the pinnacle of apartment living. Offering superb prestige, peace, seclusion and unrivalled positioning and set in over an acre of lush and beautifully maintained gardens. Basking in a perfect northern perspective, awash with sundrenched interiors, wrapped with windows on three sides, 270 degree outlook and boasts an alfresco covered terrace. EER 3.

Open: Saturday 3-3.45pm & Wednesday 4.45-5.30pm

Auction: On site 12noon, Saturday 27th June

Details: Richard Luton 0418 697 844 Jason Roses 0431 419 847

The Smarter Office

Solution

A cost effective Serviced Office solution for the

1-10 person business

Best address, best receptionist, best IT and ▪ support

Flexible lease terms starting at just one month

For less than the cost of a secretary

Arrange a personal tour today!

Flexible Virtual

Office Solutions

The most professional business image from

$160 per month

Full business support without the physical

office space

Best address, dedicated receptionist, network

of meeting rooms and exclusive IT solutions

No deposit, no long term commitment

Sign up online today! W | servcorp.com.au T | 02 6243 3600

Open: Saturday 2-3pm and Wednesday 5-5.30pm

Auction: On site 11am, Saturday 4th July

Details: Greg Hedger 0427 214 337