Canberra CityNews August 18-24, 2011

Filthy, dirty work from Civic’s dark side

FREYLA FERGUSON gets down and dirty with Canberra’s $2 million-a-year, self-inflicted mess

MORE than $2 million a year is spent on cleaning the city streets of the filth of Canberra’s nightlife.

Vomit, blood, urine, litter, syringes and graffiti are just some of the mess city cleaners take care of by the time most Canberrans get to work at 9am.

The ACT Government spends $1,950,000 a year cleaning the CBD at ground level and Canberra CBD Ltd contributes a further $200,000 to clean the building walls of graffiti.

Territory and Municipal Services’ city operations manager Steve Amos said his 20 staff work 365 days a year, from 5am to 6pm to clean the CBD. He said Sunday was their busiest day.

“People get off their bus at 8am and they don’t realise that the city is all neat and tidy and the litter is all cleaned up,” he said.

“And you probably have experienced seeing Mooseheads at 4am, outside there’s pizza boxes and kebabs and it’s an absolute mess out the front of there.

“How the city looks at 4am and how it looks at 6am is totally different.

“Both teams don’t get much credit for what they do and how they get the city looking as good as it does.”

On an average day, the Government street cleaners start work at 5am, when skip trucks begin emptying rubbish bins across Civic. Between

August 18-24, 2011

Since 1993: Volume 17, Number 31

Arts&Entertainment 20-23

Canberra Confidential 10

Cinema 22

Crossword 30

Dining 23

Health&Fitness 25

Home&Garden 26-27

Horoscope 30

Letters 8 News 3-11

Property 31-48

Social Scene 11-12

Sudoku 30

5am and 6am, street sweepers start the street and pavement cleaning before the cars and buses arrive for the start of a working day.

From 6am to 9am, ground crews start their cleaning operations including blowing, litter pick up, leaf collection, toilet cleaning and steam cleaning street furniture in the areas including Bunda Street, City Walk, city bus interchange and Glebe Park.

Horticultural staff work from 6am to 2.30pm,

Editor: Ian Meikle, editor@citynews.com.au

Phone 6262 9100 Fax 6262 9111

GPO Box 2448, Canberra City 2601 www.citynews.com.au twitter.com/city_news facebook.com/canberracitynews

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

Senior advertising executives: Melissa Delfino, 0415 137660 Ernie Nichols, 0421 077999

Advertising sales executives: Mara Stroppa, 0431 245130 Rebecca Darman 0411 225169

Advertising sales co-ordinator: ad@citynews.com.au

Sydney advertising sales: Ad Sales Connect, 02 9420 1777

Journalists: Freyla Ferguson, freyla@citynews.com.au

Kathryn Vukovljak, kathryn@citynews.com.au

Libby Rolfe, libby@citynews.com.au

Lisa Ridgley, lisa@citynews.com.au

Arts editor: Helen Musa, 0400 043764 helen@citynews.com.au

Design and photography: Silas Brown, 0412 718086

Graphic designer: Louise Brooks

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

Distribution and circulation: Richard Watson, circulation@citynews.com.au

Contributing photographer: Andrew Finch

maintaining lawns, shrub beds, planters and floral displays in Glebe Park, Veteran’s Park, West Row, City Hill and Northbourne Avenue.

And between 9.15am to 6pm, teams are continuously cleaning, maintaining and repairing assets, across the city in areas including Hobart Place, Law Courts, Childers Street, Bus Interchange and City Walk.

CBD Ltd’s contractor Pickwicks concentrates on the Sydney and Melbourne Buildings on Mon-

days and Fridays, but clean other buildings on a case-by-case basis.

Its responsibility is to clean from the building to the outside of the building’s awnings.

Canberra CBD Ltd CEO Stephen Gregory said cleaning the CBD is an integrated, complex process and it’s not just as simple as cleaning bins and street sweeping.

“It’s everything together that creates a clean city,” he said.

“It’s us, enhancing what the Government is doing. The Government is doing a very good job trying to keep the city as clean as it can.

“Everyone expects a clean city, everyone demands a clean city.

“The city has remarkably gotten cleaner in recent years.

“Canberra CBD Ltd will put their hand up and say we’ve contributed to that; we won’t take all the glory because we know the Government and their cleaners work really hard every day.

“If you walk down City Walk you see the teams of cleaners polishing bins, making sure it’s all tidy. It’s something that everyone expects and demands, but does everyone help by putting their rubbish in the bins? Probably not, I don’t think they realise how much it costs to get the city clean.”

CBD Ltd has recently funded bin enclosures for businesses using Riverside and Hillside Lanes to help “dramatically reduce waste in lanes”.

CBD Ltd is an independent body formed by the ACT Government to complement the City Centre Marketing and Improvement Program.

Lawyer Rachel faces the music at the bar

RACHEL Andrews sure can DJ. The 28-year-old lawyer and former Canberran was recently named one of 10 finalists in the She Can DJ competition by record label EMI.

The winner of the competition will join the ranks of other EMI recorded dance acts including David Guetta, Deadmau5, Tinie Tempah, Miami Horror and Empire of the Sun.

Rachel, who left Canberra two years ago, has given herself a “two-year ultimatum” to take her DJ career to the next level and hopes She Can DJ will be her big break.

“I am taking it one day at a time,” she said. “I know I have a one-in-10 chance of winning, but that’s a one-in-nine chance of not winning!”

Music has always been a passion for Rachel, who was first introduced to performing through the piano and later the clarinet, saxophone, guitar and drums.

But it was working at North Bar, while studying at ANU, that sparked her interest in getting behind the decks.

“I’ve always loved music, I first played the piano and organ and in the school bands, but never thought beyond that,” she said.

“Then I was working behind the bar in North Bar... I just fell in love with the scene.”

Her music led to residencies at Academy, North Bar, Bbar, Minque and Tongue & Groove.

She transferred to Melbourne with the Australian Government Solicitor, and soon gained a resi-

By Freyla Ferguson

dency at Fusion at Crown Casino and a regular spot at the Rogue Dance parties.

Rachel, who specialises in commercial law, recently completed her masters at ANU, with a particular focus on entertainment law.

She says her law background could be considered an advantage in the music industry.

“I think it grounds you a little more,” she said.

“Plus the skills in life, public speaking, negotiation. And also to have my life not completely revolve around music.”

Although Melbourne is home for now, Rachel still considers Canberra close to her heart.

“Canberra is an amazing place to raise a family,” she said.

“And almost all of my family live there. It’s close to my heart and I love to visit.”

The winner of She Can DJ will not only receive a global recording contract with EMI but a networking trip to the 2011 Ibiza closing parties, a mix compilation release under the She Can DJ banner, artist album release, a masterclass with an international producer and a course in electronic music production.

The winner will be announced on Wednesday, September 14 at the Ivy in Sydney.

Rachel will make a guest appearance at Trinity Bar, Dickson, on Saturday, August 20.

Former Canberran and lawyer Rachel Andrews... “I’ve always loved music.”

ANU heads south of the border

SPEAKER of the House of Representatives, Harry Jenkins, has launched the ANU’s new degree in Latin American Studies.

The Bachelor of Latin American Studies involves the study of contemporary Latin America, its history, culture, politics and economic development.

Director of the Centre for Latin American Studies at the ANU, Assoc Prof John Minns said: “We are very proud to have established this degree – it is the first degree in Latin American studies ever offered in Australia and will provide a wonderful learning experience for students who enrol.

“Not only is this a fascinating and increasingly important part of the world, Australian business and government need people with research skills, with fluency in one of the languages of Latin America and with an understanding of its politics, culture and ways of operating.”

Part of the degree will also require study in Spanish and a compulsory semester studying at a University in Latin America.

Charity winners

CANBERRA shoppers have selected PatCH (Paediatrics at the Canberra Hospital), Sids and Kids ACT and the Ronald McDonald House Canberra Building Appeal to receive respectively $5000, $3000 and $2000 donations in the Majura Park charity challenge. Over the past six weeks shoppers have dropped off “donation slips” to stores at Majura Park to decide how the $10,000 should be shared among the three Canberra children’s charities.

RMC unplugged

THE Royal Military College Band will present a musical spectacular at the Canberra Theatre, 7pm, Saturday, August 20. “The Big Band Sound”, in aid of Canberra Legacy, will feature big-band tunes with vocalist Dave Andrews, the RMC All-Stars, musical comedy, inspiring soloists climaxing with the “1812 Overture” complete with volleys of fireworks for its tumultuous conclusion. Bookings to 6275 2700 or www. canberratheatrecentre.com.au

Virgin’s new shuttle

VIRGIN Airlines has launched a new daily shuttle service between Canberra and Sydney that includes free snacks and drinks. The Capital Connect service will run up to 10 return services a day between the cities. On flights after 4pm, complimentary beer and wine will be available and complimentary newspapers on flights before noon each day.

Goodbye US, hello China

IN the dark days of 19 1 with the yellow hordes of Imperial Japan on our doorstep, Prime Minister John Curtin realigned this nation.

“Without any inhibitions of any kind,” he said, “I make it clear that Australia looks to America, free of any pangs as to our traditional links or kinship with the United Kingdom…”

So, here’s the question of the day: How long will it be before one of Curtin’s successors announces the next great realignment in these words: “Without any inhibitions of any kind, I make it clear that Australia looks to China, free of any pangs as to our traditional links with America?”

Personally, I’d give it a decade and a half; and the way things are going in Washington, that might be stretching it. Maybe a decade.

I wasn’t around when Mr Curtin made his great announcement, but while it is said to have angered Winston Churchill, I don’t imagine it caused much controversy at home. By then Curtin had very little choice.

And so it will be next time around though the circum-

stances will be very different. It might even happen without the necessity of a formal announcement. In many ways, it is happening already. But the time will come when fiendishly difficult choices will have to be made and we can but hope that someone of Curtin’s stature is in The Lodge at the time.

The two great drivers of change are economic and political and there are dangers aplenty in both. China’s economic rise has brought great benefits to Australia, not just in the booming exports of minerals and education, but in the extraordinarily cheap imports that have helped keep our inflation down. Economically, it’s a perfect partnership.

This is in stark contrast to the American trade relationship, which punishes our farmers with their subsidies and cripples our film industry with their anti-competitive bullying.

Politically, America is still the land of the free while the Chinese Government is repressive. Both governments are corrupt; both kill and imprison their own citizens in a manner and extent that we find appalling.

But on balance the American model is preferable…for now. One can’t be dogmatic about these things, but the early signs are that with increased living standards, the Chinese people will find their voice and force a greater openness and freedom of expression in the political system. While in the US, the inspiring election of President Barack Obama seems to have triggered a massive backlash.

The Republican Party is racing out of control and dragging the country towards an ideological cliff. And in a system where voting is optional, the chances are that they could well tumble over. All it needs is another idiot like George W Bush in the White House and the situation could become irredeemable.

The debt crisis will not go away. And since China now holds most of its IOUs, America’s position is increasingly parlous. The natural reaction at such times is to lash out in frustration and rage. And when that happens we could well find ourselves having to choose between the lesser of two evils.

Let’s hope it never happens because – though it pains me to say it – I think we’d have to vote for China.

Doctor in charge

By Freyla Ferguson

PSYCHIATRIST Dr Peggy Brown arrived as directorgeneral of ACT Health last year and a month later walked straight into the controversial bullying case in the maternity services department.

“This role is full of challenges and I guess my way of tackling challenges is to put your head down and look for the best way forward,” said the clinically trained psychiatrist, and one of the few medical doctors to take the helm of ACT Health.

“I’m pleased to say the maternity services are doing fine and dandy at the moment, they have the new women’s and children’s hospital under construction.

“And we’ve done a lot of work in relation to the issue of bullying and harassment in the ACT workplace that was behind some of the concerns previously, we’ve made some really solid progress in that.

“We have a very high quality and a very strong health service. I think that the people of Canberra should feel very proud of the health service they have in their community.

“Unfortunately, we’ll always have issues. It’s a human service, dealing with

people at their most vulnerable.

“It’s unrealistic to think we can run a department that doesn’t have incidents or issues.”

Since then, it’s been a busy period of change for the married mother of two teenagers. The health directorate has seen a series of changes including a massive restructure, a new intensive care unit and the redevelopment of the Canberra hospital.

Dr Brown, who hails from country Queensland, joined ACT Health as director of clinical services for ACT Mental Health in 2004. Before she came to Canberra, she had spent 18 months in the UK.

Despite finding psychiatry “incredibly emotionally draining”, she was fascinated by it.

“I really like working with people, I find people fascinating; why they do what they do,” she said.

Dr Brown stopped practising as a clinical psychiatrist in January last year, but continues to maintain her skills through professional development with the College of Psychiatrists.

She believes it’s this clinical understanding that helps her lead ACT Health.

“I do think it’s important and I think it’s important for the staff as well,” she said.

“I think a lot of staff like having a doctor as director-general. And that sense that you have worked in that system in the front line, you know what it’s like, you know some of the challenges, the complexity of it.”

Government taunts untrue

property c atherine c arter

IN the light of recent political taunts accusing the Canberra property sector of “rent seeking”, it’s time again to set the record straight.

Through a spate of media announcements, the ACT Government has attempted to persuade people that its onerous taxes are justified because “property developers” have, in the past “got away with rent seeking”.

The accusations are completely false, as is the implication that developers and those who work in the property industry are somehow a separate group of people from the rest of Canberra.

The truth is that there are property owners all over the ACT, most of whom are not developers. Many are home owners, some own their modest small-business premises, others are mums and dads with small investment properties for rent.

All will be adversely affected by an unreasonable level of taxes, fees and charges, either directly, or through rising home prices and accommodation shortages. None, not even the demonised “developers”, will be guilty of “rent seeking”.

Others who will be affected may not even own real estate of any kind, that is the substantial percentage of Canberrans who owe their jobs to the property sector; these include construction workers, architects, surveyors and real estate agents.

But the property industry also provides employment for a number of other professions too, including accountants, lawyers, retailers, manufacturers, gardeners, cleaners, communications and computer specialists, and a growing army of green-collar workers, specifically hired and trained to reduce the carbon footprint of our built environment.

Those members of the property sector who can accurately be described as “developers” are in the minority. And they form an integral and necessary part of the ACT community. They live here. Their families live here. Their children are going to build their futures here.

So let’s take these recent accusations for what they are: an ill-conceived attempt to make onerous taxes acceptable by falsely claiming their victims have been robbing the people of the ACT and deserve a come-uppance.

Catherine Carter is ACT executive director of the Property Council of Australia

When tax drops so do our social responsibilities

THE insidious growth of ultra-conservative politics has delivered an exponential increase in arguments against any increases in taxation. Our social responsibilities suffer.

Governments get caught in the middle.

There are higher expectations for reduced taxation and greater demand for better health care, disability support and other social services. The conservatives rarely call for cuts in budgets to defence forces, police or prisons.

The mistake many governments have made is in attempting to meet these demands by borrowing beyond their capacity. This has created economic crises in places such as Greece, Italy, Spain, Portugal and the US.

The pathetic attempts by Republicans and the Democrats in the US to

Greed is the new political paradigm, says MICHAEL MOORE

resolve the debt crisis, as they writhed between raising new taxes and cutting services, has been instructive. Are we seeing the seeds of the demise of such a great nation?

One factor has been the rise of the ultra-conservative Tea Party movement playing on the anti-taxation tradition of the Boston Tea Party. Some commentators are now applying the acronym “Taxed Enough Already”.

The writing is on the wall for Australia with pressure to get the balance right at Federal and State levels.

John Howard’s government provided a sound economic base by ensuring that our country was living within its means.

The Gillard and Rudd governments have maintained this aim while extending spending in areas such as health. Recently, Labor announced a comprehensive program on ageing and one for people with disabilities. Both have been supported by the Opposition.

These are good indications about getting the balance right, but there are causes for concern. The greatest is the constant reiteration by the Leader of the Opposition of Barnaby Joyce’s catch-phrase “a great big new tax” for the slightest impost. The Coalition even applied it to the levy supporting victims of the Queensland floods.

Conservative elements of Austral-

ian politics are seizing on the populist notion that we should be reducing our personal taxation burden. Of course it gains traction.

This is simply an appeal to greed.

Middle-class wage earners and smallbusiness owners in particular can see the proportion of their income that goes to the community benefit rather than their personal or family wealth.

The so-called “moderate” Liberal Party MP Kelly O’Dwyer is part of this movement.

She argued in her inaugural speech: “Lower taxation is fundamentally the right thing. Once the basic services of government are funded, individuals are best placed to choose how they spend their money.”

It is time for this movement to define “the basic services of government” beyond her statement that “basic fair-

Just loving the deep end!

Sports columnist TIM GAVEL reflects on two special people involved in local swimming

IT was a desire to become involved in their kids’ swimming that led Joan Kellet and John Skene on a journey that, many years later, still sees them playing an important role in the running of the sport in Canberra.

It’s a story that has its origins in the early days of Canberra as a growing city.

Joan and her husband, Harry, raised four children after moving to Canberra. Harry was a Bronte lifeguard and Joan loved the water, so involvement in their kids’ swimming was a natural progression.

The only problem was that Dickson pool didn’t have a learn-to-swim program in 1967. That problem was soon overcome with Joan launching herself into the process of establishing one.

From that moment, a lifetime passion for swimming began.

Joan has held a number of positions in swimming in Canberra; in 1985 she was president of what is now known as Swimming ACT. She presided over the sport for almost 20 years. And she hasn’t shirked lobbying for more pools in Canberra, as any number of politicians will vouch for.

Joan’s daughter, Annie was the last of her children to finish competitive swimming 24 years ago, but Joan had the sport in her blood and couldn’t walk away. If anything, she found new challenges and was instrumental in developing the ACT swimming program for people with a disability almost 20 years ago. It is a program which continues to this day.

She says one of the highlights in swimming was her role as the meet director for swimming at the 2008 Pacific School Games in Canberra, at which she was given the honour of reading the participation pledge.

Joan, who has an Order of Australia medal, will receive a further honour later this month when she is admitted as an associate member to the ACT Sport Hall of Fame.

Joan, still an active technical official at most local swim meets, will have John Skene alongside.

He also has made an enormous contribution to the sport, having ventured into swimming

Local swimming officials Joan Kellet and John Skene...

wasn’t for selfless people like them.”

officialdom through his four children. Wanting to do more than just sitting in the stands, he started time keeping for the Canberra Club.

That was in 1974.

John is almost 78, and his last child to stop swimming was Michael, 20 years ago.

John says a highlight for him was in the 1990s when he was the lead referee for the selection trials for the Paralympic World Swimming titles. John has contributed in so many ways to swimming including driving to country centres to train and assessing technical officials.

A couple of months ago he too was awarded an OAM for his services to swimming.

From a personal point of view, my kids are involved in swimming and the sport would not be what it is in Canberra if it wasn’t for selfless people like John and Joan.

It is the case in many sports across Canberra where volunteers who put in countless thankless hours are often not recognised by the people taking part in the sport.

ness and compassion mean a strong social safety net is essential”. Who would not love to have a larger proportion of their own wealth? It is great black and white politics. The focus changes from contributing to missing out. It works.

The atrocious resistance mounted by the mining industry lobbyists to the “super profits tax” and the erroneous picture they painted about the impact on small superannuation investors illustrates the influence of greed as a political tool.

The importance of recognising and identifying greed as a political driver is an imperative for those who are interested in future generations.

Michael Moore is a former member of the ACT Legislative Assembly and an independent minister for health in the Carnell government.

briefly

Turkish delights

ACT’S Oaktree Foundation, which raises money and awareness for the youth of East Timor, is organising an elaborate night of festivities at the Harem restaurant, Kingston, on Thursday, August 25. “Eastern Odyssey” features a Turkish banquet and entertainment from dabke, belly and Bollywood dancers. Proceeds will go to the Youth Livelihoods program in Aileu, Timor Leste. Bookings to 0401 175348 or Harem on 6295 0386.

Top-brass tales

THE last speaker in the National Library’s “Winter Tales 2011” will be Air Vice Marshal Margaret Staib, the highest-ranking woman in the Australian Defence Force, talking about the “History of Women in the Australian Military”. It’s from 2pm to 4pm on Sunday, August 28. Bookings to 6262 1271.

Trivia fun night

NGUNNAWAL Primary School will be holding a “Trivia Night FUNdraiser” to raise money for new school equipment. The event, with more than $2000 worth of prizes, will be held on Saturday, September 17, at Ngunnawal Primary School. Entry is $10 and includes a free drink. Bookings to 6205 8182 or email NgunnawalPandCCommittee@gmail.com

Zed misses the point on peaceful, even unlawful, protest

EITHER Zed Seselja’s (“Speaker Shane can’t dodge upholding the rule of law”, CN August 11) has deliberately misconstrued my comments on the right to protest for his own purposes, or he does not understand the concept that peaceful, and perhaps even unlawful, protest and the rule of law can stand side by side. Nonetheless, throughout history many important political players have participated in civil disobedience.

Moore’s ‘out of touch’

Locally, many of those who fought against the dam on the Franklin River were arrested, but history and the nation now judge them as heroes. Right across the union movement, environment movement, and civil and women’s rights movements, civil disobedience has featured. There are also contemporary examples where peaceful civil disobedience might come into play – for example, over the weekend,

dose of dorin

HOW out of touch is Michael Moore when it comes to the safety of our schoolchildren?

As a mother of a four-year-old preschooler, I was glad to see fencing had been erected around schools as it is an issue that had concerned me for some time.

It is not only a safety issue, but a responsibility issue for schools to provide the safest environment possible for children attending them and if this is via a fence around the premises, then it is worth it.

What is more important in the long run – a school oval open all hours to the public to “kick a footy” or higher safety during school hours for students, not to mention possibly lowering vandalism and graffiti attacks? If Canberra was a community where the only place to partake in recreational activities was the school oval, then perhaps complaining about fencing would be acceptable, but in reality we have an abundance of open spaces to do this elsewhere.

Mr Moore, this is the 21st century and, sadly, times must change and we must move with the changes. After all, the fences are not hideous or topped with barbed wire, they are sleek and simple so as not to impose on the urban landscape.

Kylie stevenson, via email

Fence the buildings

MICHAEL Moore has a point about school fences (“Creeping blight of school fences”, CN August 11). I was board chair at Canberra High when we lobbied to get a fence because the ongoing cost to the school budget of vandalism was unacceptable and funds for education needs were being affected. However, the fence installed at Canberra High is only around the buildings, not the playing fields.

For example, I don’t understand why the entire playing fields of Telopia High had to be enclosed. As a result the fence gates are left open 24/7, presumably to allow access to the playing fields.

c hris Emery, via email

debate emerged about whether farmers should be able to lock coal seam gas companies out of their land, in spite of the legal right to undertake exploration.

During the last term of the Assembly, Liberal MLA Steve Pratt, attacking what he called the scourge of graffiti, took direct action and painted over what was in fact a legal artwork.

Later, in the debate over the gas-

fired data centre at Macarthur, Pratt was quoted as saying: “If push comes to shove, I will chain myself to a bulldozer to stop this going ahead.”

My research has failed to reveal any commentary from Zed Seselja condemning either of these actions.

Yet, all of these actions would be considered by many to be a form of peaceful civil disobedience, some involving property destruction. They

Drama is alive and well

IN this week’s “CityNews” you published a story about the up-coming production of Archibald McLeish’s “Panic” at the ANU Arts Centre (“Free ‘Panic’, in the name of research”, CN August 11). It’s directed by Andrew Holmes, a PhD student in drama at the ANU. Your story is based around an interview with the lead player, Tony Turner, who says that drama studies at the ANU were abandoned a couple of years ago.

I’m happy to say that this is not true.

There have been the usual restructures that all universities undergo periodically. But drama is still a flourishing area in the School of Cultural Inquiry. In fact, we have a new drama and English lecturer joining us next year – Dr Kate Flaherty, whose special expertise is in Shakespeare performance.

We invite Canberrans to see a drama perform-

ance for themselves, and come to the free productions of “Panic”.

Prof Jill Julius Matthews, Head of s chool of cultural Inquiry, anu

Now Ric should apologise

RIC Hingee should gets his facts right before making unsubstantiated assertions (Letters, CN August 11). I am not a solicitor and have never claimed to be. Mr Hingee may be confusing me with a local solicitor of the same last name, to whom I am not related and who sometimes writes to the editor. Perhaps he should apologise to her and to me.

Patricia s aunders, c hapman

Lundy’s ‘push’ polling

MANY of your readers will have received a “sur-

could also be considered unlawful. I stand by my view that peaceful protest has, and will continue to have, a role in society. Whether the community considers a particular action to be legitimate will depend on their own views of the issue at hand, but either way, I have been clear that the rule of law must be upheld.

s hane Rattenbury ML a , Member for Molonglo

vey” from Kate Lundy (and perhaps other ALP parliamentarians) which is in a form that is attempting to push-poll the ALP/Greens’ approach to climate change and the carbon tax.

As one who has studied polling techniques and worked with various ministers who use polling results to design and implement policy, I am concerned that respondents do not understand how they are being manipulated.

Lundy’s survey provides only three options and a small space for comment. None of the options provides the ability to agree with the need for action on climate change, but in terms other than those supported by the ALP and the Greens.

For example, the survey asks for help and support to introduce a price on carbon pollution. No alternatives, or mix of alternatives, to a carbon tax are offered.

Having worked for the bulk of my career in the energy, environmental and minerals areas of the then Department of Primary Industry and Energy, and having examined various brown-coal-fired generating facilities as part of my job, I saw a need for direct action in closing down these high-emission, ash-polluting operations, not just for climate change reasons but also on health grounds. Similarly, there are other means of tackling climate change problems besides taxing industry and individuals although taxes are a legitimate area to include in the mix.

The big problem with this survey is that for interpretation purposes, only the boxes that are ticked will be added up. Comments, such as my own, are not addressed in any substantive way as they are not amenable to being summarised as a number.

Therefore the “strong message” that Lundy and Co want to take as “a call to action to Parliament in 2011” will not include people like myself who comment that they support action on climate change, but do not agree with this being done simply through a tax on carbon and thereby a tax on the whole community. This is why people like myself, who are concerned about climate change, are being push-polled into agreeing with the ALP/Greens simplistic carbon tax approach to a complex situation.

Ric Hingee, Duffy

Hamilton Watts Migration Services

Professional, personal help with migration

WITH more than two decades of experience servicing the Sydney and Melbourne markets, Hamilton Watts Migration Services is bringing its expertise to Canberra.

“The ACT economy is booming, but business is  nding it increasingly dif  cult to attract skilled professionals to the area,” says operations manager Tony Le Nevez.

“Our company specialises in obtaining skilled work visas, but we also assist individuals seeking permanent residence for their spouse or family members. For applicants whose visas have been refused, we can help with an appeal to the Migration Review Tribunal.”

Hamilton Watts Migration Services has been providing immigration solutions to individuals and companies for more than 20 years. Clients include companies from Australia and overseas, public and private institutions, professionals, and individuals.

Its headquarters are in Melbourne, with of  ces in Sydney, Perth and, now, Canberra. It represents clients throughout Australia, around the world, and across all industry sectors.

“We take pride in our professional, yet personal level of service,” Tony says. “We see ourselves as a ‘boutique’ agency. We are big enough to handle large corporate clients, but our service model means we can also provide a premium service to individuals.

“We are not like one of the large, impersonal consultancy  rms, but we are not sole traders, either.

“Clients bene  t from our unrivalled ability to anticipate and resolve issues relating to visa applications and obtain successful visa outcomes in the shortest time possible.

“We are con  dent in saying that we are highly respected by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship because of the type of clients we attract, and the quality of our applications and submissions.”

Every Hamilton Watts consultant is a registered migration agent with the Migration Agents Registration Authority and is a member of the Migration Institute of Australia.

“At the core of our business are several former

senior managers and of cers of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship, providing a level of experience and know-how unequalled by any other agency,” Tony says.

“Our service model also differs from most other migration companies. Clients deal only with accredited and professional senior consultants, not associates, migration assistants or paralegals. We lead our clients through the visa process, explaining each step along the way. They are never in the dark.”

All Hamilton Watts consultants have multiple years experience in Australian immigration and all participate in on-going, continuing professional development so that their knowledge and understanding of immigration legislation and policy is always current.

“Our structure means we have the  exibility to

assist individual applicants seeking a visa for their partner or family member, through to multinational companies sponsoring large numbers of skilled workers. We operate on a  xed fee basis so that clients are fully informed of the costs involved in obtaining their visa and will not be ambushed by any hidden charges,” says Tony. “Hamilton Watts is proud of its 20-year history providing honest and personal service to clients. We are very excited about bringing our unique approach to Canberra.”

Hamilton Watts offers a free, noobligation consultation with a professional consultant, who is a registered migration agent and a member of the Migration Institute of Australia. Contact them on 6243 3661 or visit www.hwims.com.au

Australian Immigration Specialists

Australian Visa and Migration Solutions

With more than 20 years experience, Hamilton Watts Migration Services is one of Australia’s leading visa consultancies.

Whether you’re interested in Employer Sponsored work visas, State Sponsored and Investment Migration or Permanent Residence for a Spouse or Partner, Hamilton Watts can help.

Our people, processes and technology are all focused on the same thing: achieving successful visa outcomes in the shortest possible time.

Contact Hamilton Watts today for an obligation free appraisal.

Located in Melbourne Sydney Perth and Canberra

Canberra Confidential

No Joy for builders

MLA Joy Burch was MIA at a recent event in Canberra. Comedian and host of the Master Builders Association Awards Night, Anh Do, was apparently forced to “pad out” with a skit in which he pretended to be Ms Burch.

It appears the Minister for Community Services neglected to tell organisers of her last-minute decision to back out.

Concerned for her well-being, “Confidential” contacted Ms Burch’s media adviser, Victor Violante, and was told there was a miscommunication.

“Our office manager had notified the association well in advance that the Minister was unable to attend, however they did not properly record this,” he says.

Happily, the Minister is present for the latest parliamentary sitting, through to August 25.

Consuming passion

THE 450 guests at Lifeline’s Willy Wonka Gala Ball, at The Hotel Realm on Saturday, devoured 113 kilos of lollies all in the name of charity (they raised more than $50,000). Congratulations to the organisers for putting on a sweet night!

Raiders’ romantic plays

RAIDERS prop David Shillington has been in the media lately congratulating his team mate Dane Tilse on his recent engagement and speculating a few other players may not be far behind.

Shillington’s comments have led many to believe he could be the next one down on one knee. After all, he has just secured his future in Canberra and “Confidential” has learnt his girlfriend has relocated from Sydney and moved in.

But sources say it could be a bit early and that a safer bet might be Bronson Harrison or even Josh Miller. Whatever the case, Raiders’ fans have certainly been left disappointed this season, and any more engagement announcements will certainly leave Canberra’s ladies heartbroken.

Spring back in time

HERE’S a chance to step back in time and maybe even discover some of grandma’s secret recipes. The Australian War Memorial is creating a

Victory Garden, just like the one your grandparents might have grown during World War II.

Memorial marketing manager Bob Crawshaw says the garden at this year’s Floriade is a chance for people to get a glimpse into life on the Australian home front between 1939 and 1945. “It’s not just about gardening; we’ll also be cooking loads of frontline food from bully beef to Bolognaise.”

But here’s hoping Crawshaw isn’t

managing the War Memorial’s veggie patch. “Confidential” has learnt Crawshaw started his working life as a general hand in a nursery in Melbourne’s Dandenong Ranges. But his boss, a flinty Scotsman, soon suggested he look for another career because he was more “ham fisted” than “green fingered”.

MTV VJ Hits Canberra

MTV VJ Ruby Rose is on her way to Canberra. Well-known for her public stances on gay marriage and youth affairs, Ruby will make an exclusive appearance at Hyperdome Shopping Centre on Saturday, September 10.

Fans will no doubt be happy. “Confidential” has heard Ruby is set to share the secrets of her street ‘n’ sweet style in an exclusive “In Season” tour in partnership with Myer that will see her host a High Voltage Style Session and play a DJ set.

Christmas, anyone?

I FEEL like all my Christmas’ have come at once! It’s a saying perhaps one Canberra store is taking a little too far. The choice of a large or small Christmas tree and a Christmas wreath are already on sale in Costco, Majura Park. Don’t they know it’s only August?

Lisa welcomes your feedback, thoughts and item ideas at lisa@ citynews.com.au or follow Lisa on Twitter @Lisa_Ridgley

Size surprises Jake

THERE’S no doubt the new Brumbies Coach Jake White has a challenge ahead of him. And it’s one he says he’s ready to tackle head-on. Phew!

But ask him if the Brumbies can win next year, White simply says they’ll try as hard as they can. “We’ll work hard and do our best and there’s nothing more Canberrans would want than that,” he says.

The former 2007 World Cup-winning Springboks’ coach has been in Canberra for just over a month now and says it’s a lot bigger than he thought. “Everyone told me Canberra’s a small country town but it’s not that small,” White says.

His vital stats: Favourite Food: Pasta

Drink of choice: Beer

Signature Dish: Pasta with chilli

Dined at: Urban Pantry Manuka

Ordered: Pasta

Favourite Music: Phil Collins, Duran Duran and Crowded House.

At Lifeline Canberra’s 40th Birthday ‘Willy Wonka Gala Ball’, Hotel Realm, Barton

‘n’ Treasure market

Kelton Constructions

Get your builder right and the rest will follow

REMODELLING your home is a huge investment and can be stressful.

But the right builder will help the whole process run smoothly, says Laura Sutton, of Kelton Constructions, in Queanbeyan.

“It’s vital that you  nd a builder who understands exactly what you want, and who you can trust,” she says.

A family business that’s been operating for 23 years, Kelton Constructions was founded by principal Anthony Sutton, Laura’s dad, and focuses on extensions and major renovations.

“We recognised the demand for a high-quality, ‘boutique’ builder in the niche market of home renovations, extensions and remodelling,” says Laura. “That’s where our experience

and expertise are aligned.

“We have a  ve-year guarantee on workmanship and materials, therefore we ensure that the quality of work and materials is high in the  rst place so we don’t have to keep coming back.

“Our experience and customer service also means we don’t require homeowners to move out during the build period.”

Understanding that these clients require particular attention to detail and a high level of customer service, Anthony felt that specialising in home renovations and extensions provided a good match between clients’ needs and Kelton Constructions’ expertise and culture.

Laura says that the building industry is highly regulated, and that a builder needs to obtain the necessary qualications to get their licence, and also attend courses regularly to keep abreast of changes in the law and the industry.

“Our licence is Class C, which is for low-rise residential,” she says.

“You may  nd a builder that has a higher class licence, enabling them to do high-rise and low-rise and sure, they are licenced to do extensions and renovations, but are you going to have the best experience in terms of management, cost and quality of workmanship? Understand your builder’s strengths; do your research.

“Find out not only how long the builder has been in the industry, but also how long he’s been running his own business.”

When obtaining quotes, keep in mind that accepting the cheapest tender may not be the best option, advises Laura.

“You do get what you pay for,” she says.

“The construction of your extension or renovation is the most important part so don’t cut any costs.

“Ensure you understand everything that is and isn’t included, and that it’s

set out clearly in writing,” she says.

“Our quotes are incredibly speci  c, including detail on plan approval, footings and external door type, through to robe shelving and bathroom  ttings.

“We also offer a  xed-price contract, which means the agreed contract price won’t change unless the client requests alterations, or chooses an item that’s more expensive than provisionally allowed for.

“We manage the whole process, from the initial consultation to the  nal certi  cate.”

•

Kelton Constructions offers a range of extension and renovation possibilities, including: additional bedrooms and wardrobes

extended living areas and new kitchens

remodeling of existing bathrooms, ensuites and toilets granny  ats, parents’ retreats and studios second storey additions basement level additions building garages and carports patios, balconies, decks and pergolas (when any of the above other work is already being done) More information at www. keltonconstructions.com.au or call 6299 3622.

THE DIFFERENCE IS ALL ENCOMPASSING

“ The difference between other builders and Kelton Constructions, is not only the quality of their workmanship, and 5 year guarantee, it’s also the level of service provided. Throughout the build, and beyond, any question or issue we had was responded to promptly and to our satisfaction. The professional Kelton team were always available to take our calls and were always a pleasure to deal with. We are extremely happy with our extension and have no hesitation in recommending Kelton Constructions. ” Niall & Lisa

2011 Construction Training Industry Awards advertising

Shock win for bright spark Michelle

THE ACT Outstanding Graduating Apprentice for 2011 is ActewAGL’s Michelle Tifan.

Michelle received her award before more than 400 people at the ninth Annual ACT Building and Construction Industry Training Council’s Outstanding Graduating Apprentice Awards at Thoroughbred Park on Friday, August 12.

With a strong desire to complete a trade in the construction industry, Michelle completed a Bachelor of Science degree with honours from the ANU then undertook signi  cant research into what trade best suited the knowledge and skills achieved through her degree and selected the electrical trade.

She has gone on to demonstrate these skills as a systems electrician and is highly respected by her colleagues.

The ACT Regional Building and Construction Industry Training Council would like to congratulate outstanding apprentices and finalists of the 2011 CITC Graduating Apprentice and Industry Encouragement Awards

We would also like to thank our sponsors and supporters

The awards formally recognise the ACT and surrounding region’s apprentices for outstanding performance in their trades.

Education and Training Minister Andrew Barr, in the presence of fellow ACT Legislative Assembly members, opened the event and congratulated winners and nominees.

The Minister then assisted with the presentation of certi  cates to the apprentices and cadets before joining

Dean Hall, secretary of the CFMEU, to announce the Outstanding Apprentice for 2011.

CITC executive director Vince Ball reminded the audience of the enormous contribution the construction industry plays not only in the local economy, but also in its contribution to youth and the general community.

“This major event provides the opportunity of sharing some of the successes of the industry and recognises

that, in today’s climate, it is extremely important and  tting that we recognise and reward outstanding performances by local graduating construction industry apprentices,” he said. He also informed the audience of a number of programs that the CITC was involved in that promotes the construction industry to a broad audience and to ensure that the long-term future viability for apprentices was addressed.

Award winners

Bricklaying Arin HARTWELL Cabinet making Anthony AMATO Carpentry Matthew CUTHBERT

Civil – diesel mechanical heavy vehicle Rhys WEARN

Cadet - site managementTerry MULCAHY Cadet - contract administration Jack SUTTON

Glass and glazingGeorge LLOYD

Indigenous (bricklaying)Jack VINCENT Landscaping Thomas COOK

Meritorious Tim CLEAVER

Meritorious Adrian HEBDA

Metals engineering/light fabrication

Metals engineering/heavy fabrication

Metals

Painting and decoratingJustin MAKINGS

Refrigeration

Solid plastering

Systems electricianMark PENCA

Enter the beautiful world of natural stone

HARD-wearing, beautiful and practical, the popularity of natural stone shows no sign of slowing down, says Luke Smolenaars.

“Stone tiles are great for interior or exterior use, and so durable and versatile,” he says. “They can enhance your home and garden.”

Luke is the owner of Stone Emporium, a new shop that’s opened in Darling Street, Mitchell, and which he says offers the best price on stone tiles anywhere in Canberra.

“We’ve had a warehouse for just over a year, selling to builders and landscapers at wholesale, but with our new showroom we’re able to offer the same great deals to the general public,” he says.

“If you deal directly with the importer, you’ll save big money on your project, and the prices we offer every day are much lower than our competitors’ sale or trade prices.”

Stone Emporium specialises in stack stone, bluestone, sandstone, crazy paving, travertine, limestone and other natural stone products, and its product range is continually growing, says Luke.

“For example we have 15 different shades of sandstone; it’s got such a

broad range of colours,” he says. “We also have gorgeous stack stone tiles, or the larger dry stack, which have the look of a natural wall.

“Stack stone looks fantastic in homes as a feature wall, or in landscaped gardens, entry or kitchen, or for commercial use in shops, restaurants, of ces or foyers.

“We carry a massive variety of quality stone products in a range of colours,  nishes and textures, as well as large-format pavers which are usually available for immediate delivery.

“Special orders can be arranged – just show us what you’re looking for, and we’ll source it for you.

“Novatex adhesives and Klen stone sealers and cleaners are also available, and we can deliver.

“We offer free quotes, and can help you  nd what you’re looking for, whether it’s a small DIY job or a large commercial project.”

Stone Emporium, 35 Darling Street, Mitchell. Call 1300 998895 or visit www.stoneemporium.com.au for more information

all about living

Young Ross faces the future without fear

By Kathryn Vukovljak

TEENAGER Ross Green says he was a “little bit nervous” about giving a talk to a Camp Quality seminar, but after beating cancer the 16-year-old reckons there’s not much that fazes him these days.

“Before the cancer you wouldn’t have even got me on a rollercoaster, but now I’m thinking about jumping out of a plane,” says Ross.

“Why bother being scared of things? You only live once.”

The Gungahlin College student gave a speech at the OPC IT/Camp Quality breakfast seminar at the National Press Club, to kick off fundraising activities for 2011. “Constables” Mark Duggan and Brett Norton from OPC IT, known as the Fun Police, will be taking Woody, a 1976 Holden Kingswood, from Canberra on the 20th fundraising motoring adventure esCarpade.

Ross talked about his passion for Camp Quality – the children’s family cancer charity that aims to bring optimism and happiness to the lives of children and families affected by cancer through fun therapy and education – and how it has helped him and his family.

Diagnosed with high-risk t-cell ALL (Acute lymphoblastic leukemia) in 2007, Ross says it all started when he felt soreness in his fingers and toes.

“It was a weird pain, sort of like

a sprain, and as I’d recently started playing baseball, and had a stack on my scooter, I assumed it was all related to that,” he says.

Eventually though, Ross says the pain got so bad that his mum took him to the Canberra Hospital emergency room where blood tests revealed the cancer.

“We had the results at noon, and by 3pm we were on a plane to Sydney for treatment,” says Ross’ dad Bruce. “It all happened so fast.”

“I was quite scared,” says Ross.

What followed was a year of hospital visits, steroid treatment and a bone marrow donation from Ross’ then fouryear-old brother Max, which ultimately saved his life.

Nevertheless, says Ross, “he’s still an annoying brother!”

Ross, who has recently done work experience at Camp Quality, says that the organisation helped him and his family to have days out where they didn’t have to think about anything other than having a good time.

“It made such a difference,” he says. “They also got me a Nintendo DS when mine was stolen at the hospital. Things like that helped us to stay positive, and I’m happy to be able to give back now – even though I’m too young to take part in esCarpade.”

Bruce says that Ross was an innocent kid prior to the diagnosis.

“He had to grow up pretty quickly,” he says. “And with him being so isolated, and not mixing with other kids for so long, he was more in tune with adults than kids by the end of his treatment, so

that was hard for him for a while.”

Three years out of his operation, Ross says things are looking good. “I’ve been moved to the long-term clinic ahead of schedule – usually that happens after five years, so that’s great news,” he says.

“I always think about it, even though he’s doing so well now,” says Bruce. “Anywhere where I think he could catch something, like a plane ride, I get nervous.

“But like a lot of kids who go through things like this, Ross has now got this lust for life, and I’m really proud of him.”

Donate to Canberra entrants ‘The Fun Police’ at www.campquality.org. au/escarpade. Funds raised will help children living with cancer and their families.

Four locals in sculpture prize race

FOUR Canberra artists, Geoff FarquharStills, Martin Rowney, Liz Kelly and Maryann Mussared, have been selected for the Willoughby Sculpture Prize, running until September 4. The gallery at 2 Small Street is a converted Walter Burley Griffin incinerator.

AND there are another four Canberra artists in the finalists’ list for the 60th Blake Prize. Danie Mellor, Linzie Ellis, Kensuke Todo and Kate Murphy are all in the running for the famous award that asks artists to explore the religious and spiritual in art.

NEWS is to hand that a street in Forde is to be named after Ursula Callus, founder of the Canberra International Festival of Chamber Music. This is wonderful, but we need more such arts community namings.

THE Australian String Quartet’s line-up for its National Composers’ Forum in Adelaide this month includes Canberra’s Michael Sollis, whose work “So she moaned, and as she uttered her moans” will be workshopped and performed by the quartet. It’s been a fabulous year for Sollis, the director of the Griffyn Ensemble, co-winner of Wesley Music Foundation’s classical guitar composition competition and the joint composer of a kids’ musical about dinosaurs.

arts in the city

THAT intrepid theatre director Nina Stevenson is staging “Hamlet”, re-written from the point of view of Queen Gertrude by local Shakespeare lover Kerrie Roberts. It’s at Tuggeranong Arts Centre as part of the Women’s Theatre Forum program, August 24-September 3. Bookings to 6293 1443.

ON August 21, M16 Studios will celebrate its inaugural year at the Blaxland Centre Griffith with open day from 11am to 3pm. All are welcome. At 1pm there will be an arts debate, coyly announced in print under the topic: “What’s so good about art?” The actual title is “All art is bulls…t.” I know, I’m opposing the motion.

FEDERAL Arts Minister Simon Crean has announced a discussion paper for a new National Cultural Policy. He’s urging us to have our say by October 21. Visit http://culture.arts.gov.au/have-your-say

“MATERIAL Matters” at the ANU School of Art focuses on works from the Ceramics Workshop teaching collection. Bringing to -

gether work by staff, students and alumni, pieces by visiting artists and items from the permanent collection, Tuesday-Friday, 9am-5pm and Saturday, noon-5pm. SONGS by Mozart and Beethoven, Schubert and Schumann will be heard in Artsong’s next concert. British tenor Christopher Saunders and pianist Berta Brozgul will perform in Wesley Music Centre at 3pm, August 21. THE University of Canberra Chorale will perform Bach cantatas in St Paul’s Anglican Church, Manuka at 7.30pm, August 25.

Here comes the fun police car

WOODY’S on the road again for Camp Quality, the children’s family cancer charity that believes in bringing optimism and happiness to the lives of children and families affected by cancer through fun therapy.

The 20th anniversary Camp Quality esCarpade will kick off in Bendigo on Friday, October 14 and will end 3400km later in Bright on Friday, October 21.

“Constables” Mark Duggan and Brett Norton from OPC IT in Canberra, otherwise known as the OPC Fun Police will be taking Woody, a 1976 Holden Kingswood, for the second time on the esCarpade fundraiser.

The “Constables” said: “We have been touched by the many stories we have heard from other teams and from CQ and by the overwhelming kindness and generosity of spirit that just mentioning CQ arouses in people.

“For us and our sponsors it is all about the journey and the opportunities we are creating to raise awareness of the help that’s required, more so than the destination.”

Backing the OPC IT charity drive are ActewAGL, “CityNews” and a group of local businesses. This year’s esCarpade retraces the original route of 20 years ago.

The film we all should see!

“RED Dog” is undoubtedly the best locallyproduced film of the year.

A stray kelpie-cattle dog cross wanders into the mining town of Dampier in WA in the ‘70s. Soon, it becomes the official mascot of the community and changes the lives of everyone.

Loosely based on a true story, “Red Dog” captures the spirit of a small mining community. Essentially, it’s a microcosm for the entire country and everything that’s great about Australia.

Director Kriv Stenders covers themes of multiculturalism, mateship, love and loss. He does a great job of establishing lovable characters and letting their stories play out while pushing the story forward.

Each frame is dripping with beautiful scenery from locations across WA, shot brilliantly by cinematographer Geoffrey Hall. The performances are all excellent and are never overplayed.

“Red Dog” is a film every Australian should see. It showcases the importance of community and the ways we bond together

to get through good and hard times. In cinemas everywhere

“GREEN LANTERN” (M)

IN recent years, the superhero genre has hit its stride with the likes of “The Dark Knight” and “Iron Man”, but the bubble has burst with the arrival of “Green Lantern”.

Based on one of the many heroes from the DC Comics stable – including Superman and Batman – Hal Jordan (Ryan Reynolds) is a cocky test pilot who lives life on the edge. After discovering an alien spacecraft, he is recruited by a group of space police known as the Green Lanterns.

The film delivers non-stop superhero movie clichés and tries to gloss over its non-existent plot with beefed-up special effects, which shine in parts, but look almost unfinished in others.

Reynolds is terribly miscast which should send most comic-book fanboys into fits of rage, with the rest of the cast stuck churning out dialogue that is absolute drivel.

“Green Lantern” is aimed at two-yearolds and is nothing more than an attempt to sell toys. An estimated $300 million was wasted on this trash and fans beware, only heartbreak lies ahead.

In cinemas everywhere

FORMULA 1 drivers push the boundaries

of human skill and mechanical excellence, and the latest documentary “Senna” shines the spotlight on one of the masters of the sport – Brazilian motor-racing champion Ayrton Senna.

Senna’s life is captured from his humble rise in the European go-karting circuit, through to his arrival on the Formula 1 stage and the success that followed in the ‘80s.

The story is told using footage collected by filmmaker Asif Kapadia, who tirelessly pieces together the puzzle of Senna’s life, most of it told without the traditional voiceover. The race footage is thrilling and the rarely seen video of backroom bickering is eye opening.

Senna’s world is full of colourful racing identities and a place full of politics and rivalry.

Senna himself is an engaging character – a highly intelligent and spiritual person who thrives on a passion for racing, but is constantly bogged down by people with hidden agendas.

His never-say-die attitude is inspiring and the ending is heartbreaking.

“Senna” sits in pole position as one of the best documentaries of 2011; a must-see for revheads, but anyone who hasn’t seen an F1 race may struggle.

At Dendy

Regular film reviewer Dougal Macdonald is on leave

‘Postcards’ from China and beyond

By Helen Musa POSTCARDS

are the prerogative of the traveller and Canberra Dance Development Centre’s young performers are experts. They’re just back from the Shanghai International Children’s Cultural and Art Festival, where they performed in the Grand Theatre in a show televised to millions.

CDDC’s impressive record has seen its graduates join the Australian Ballet, Bangarra, the WA Ballet, Chunky Move, the English National Ballet and Royal Winnipeg Ballet.

Director Jackie Hallahan, who founded the centre in 1985, encourages her students to study singing and acting, while through the annual concert at

From fantastic to elegant

VISUAL ART “Imitation of Life”, Canberra Museum and Gallery, until October 23.

Reviewed by Anni Doyle Wawrzynczak

LAST year, the curatorial team at CMAG brought us the exceptional “Something in the Air”, which showcased 41 ACT artists over eight decades.

This year’s virtuosic turn brings together work from 27 artists (either residents or associates of the ACT), whose chosen works re-configure the familiar, using a tremendous variety of scholarship, medium

and technique.

Works range from the fantastic (Julie Ryder’s “transgenesis”, a 240cm sphere composed of digitally printed, handconstructed umbrellas and Louise Pinder’s marvellous “Pins and Needles”, cast aluminium garb for a female knight), to the breathtakingly elegant.

Stephanie Jones, “Magnolia stellata rosea” juxtaposes a slim, rooted, magnolia sapling covered in a shimmer of white sugar, against a long fall of creamy patterned wallpaper on which is pencilled the frosted sapling’s ghost twin.

Everyday items from tools to appliances are re-presented in curious and provocative forms: classic books cast in bronze (Nick Stranks), rag rugs constructed from fibre-tipped pens on acrylic sheets (Kirsten

Farrell), tea cups and saucers fashioned with random weave ethernet cable fibre (Ann McMahon) and Julian Laffan’s “City of the Future”, an installation of 30 parts which overlays familiar tools with inked woodcut depictions of agricultural and urban imaginings.

The stellar line-up includes works by Robert Boynes, Vivienne Binns, Ruth Waller, David Watts and Imants Tillers.

Spend some time with Janenne Eaton’s wonderful “Creek Runner – Hume and Barton Highways” and with Jane Barney’s sparkling filmic representations of the ‘60s gender journey from child to adult.

Nicola Dixon and Danie Mellor’s works comment on aspects of our national consciousness with unforgettable results. What a marvellous exhibition.

the Canberra Theatre, they learn production and stagecraft.

Now it’s time for the 2011 concert, “26 Postcards,” a night of “amazing, ordinary, frightening and exciting” experiences. Especially exciting is the return of the centre’s star graduate, Paul Knobloch, in his self-created solo work, “Facets of Light”.

Home visiting family from Lausanne, Switzerland, where he performs in the Bejart Ballet, he’s moving towards a mature, international stage of his career as a choreographer – he’s even created a new work for Ballet Victoria in Canada.

“26 Postcards”, Canberra Theatre, 7.30pm, August 27. Bookings to 6275 2700.

MELBOURNE’S Concordis Chamber Choir has won the Australian Open Choirs Championship for the second year in a row, in addition to winning the Open Sacred Choral, Open Contemporary and Australia-Britain sections at the Australian National Eisteddfod Society choirs’ division.

The word for delicious in Curtin

WHILE “Delissio” sounds like it should, in Italian it means, well, nothing; but in Curtin it’s the word for great service, good food and a bright, invigorating atmosphere in a modern, Australian restaurant.

With a sister brasserie in Braddon, the inner-south restaurant and bar is a tireless hub of hospitality and energy, from the clatter of the half-open kitchen to the lights-down hearty choruses of “Happy Birthday” that seem to characterise most every visit I’ve made to Delissio.

Be warned, entertaining big parties is a forte of this place and if you’re heading here for a quiet, intimate, kiss-and-cuddle dinner, then stay home. Delissio is, unfortunately, at times loud – a combination of the grinding beat of the house music and the boisterous mood of the crowd.

On my most recent dinner there, one Thursday night, a couple of women slid in alongside. So pleased were they to see each other that it was hard not to get drawn into the vortex of their gossip. The stories I

dining

Ian Meikle

could tell about him!

But to the food and the service: a bright and incorrigibly chatty Kate lassoed the order from a wide and comprehensive menu that transcended a big influence of pasta and pizzas to an extensive selection of interesting entrees and mains.

The wine list is solid and extensive, with whites starting at $25 and reds from $28. There are lots of by-the-glass choices and BYO corkage is a pretty reasonable $8 a bottle.

I opened the innings with a duck pie ($14) set in leek and mushrooms in light, flaky pastry with hazelnuts and sour-cherry dressing. It was fabulous. Piping hot, with a serve of duck atop the small, intense pie, the texture was moist, flavoursome and nicely sized for an entree.

Across the table, the order was for devilled scallops ($15), which were wrapped in speck, served on green-pea puree with Tabasco sauce. The three scallops were beautifully presented and moist, but had disappointingly lost heat from the kitchen to the table and were bordering on cold. A

check with Kate confirmed they should have been warmer.

On to the mains and more joy! My lamb shoulder ($30) was perfect; the generous serve of slow-cooked meat falling from the bone to the fork. The dish was smothered in sauce. At the other side of the oblong dish, was an orderly stack of polenta chips.

Back across the table and the steamy risotto Anatra ($22), with confit duck, green peas, spinach and mushrooms, was getting a thumbs up. Contrition in the kitchen had dispatched the bowl hot, hot, hot.

Tempted by Kate, who is from Pambula and this is her first winter in Canberra by the way, we opted for a shared creme Catalan ($14), a “soupy” brulee with a heavy bottom of sauce. It was undeniably yummy, if a little too runny for my taste.

“Delizioso”, Mr Google assures me, is Italian for delicious. And in my pidgin Italiano, so is Delissio.

Delissio Restaurant and Bar, 83 Theodore Street, Curtin, call 6282 0855. Dinner seven days, from 5.30pm, lunch Tuesday to Friday, noon-2.30pm.

Regular columnist Wendy Johnson returns from leave next week.

Fred rises from ‘Dust’

By Helen Musa CANBERRA

contemporary folksinger Fred Smith’s imaginative and funny new album “Dust of Uruzgan” is dedicated to the 18 months he spent as a DFAT officer around Taren Kowt, Afghanistan.

And Smith has some important things to tell us, both in song and the equally useful liner notes to this album, about this mystifying conflict.

Smith’s back in Canberra now, which he calls a nice contrast to life in Uruzgan province, and will soon embark on a 30-concert tour of the country.

And since we’re allowed to talk about the war here, he doesn’t think we should pull out altogether.

When you hear him sing about the education minister who couldn’t read and write and another minister who ran a “knock shop”, you’ll understand how useful we are in encouraging civil change.

Once, he even talked to an Afghan

woman. “I don’t think you’d want to be one of them,” he says. His insights into their condition are reflected in “A Thousand Splendid Suns” and “Trembling Sky”.

Smith usually “becomes” other characters serving in Afghanistan; half singing, half speaking, he opens with the heartbreaking title song telling how Ben Ranaudo, from Springvale, Victoria, was killed by an IED [improvised explosive device].

In “Taliban Fighting Man”, he becomes an American marine who’s so enjoyed fighting and male friendship, that he finds it hard to contemplate going home.

CDs from Landspeed Records, Civic and Songland, Tuggeranong. The “Dust of Uruzgan” concert, with supporting band and vocals, will be at The Playhouse on September 3. Bookings to 6275 2700 or canberratheatrecentre. com.au

“CityNews” has five copies of comedian Chris Lilley’s highly acclaimed mockumentary series “Angry Boys” to give away. Entry details at citynews.com.au/win

Time to avoid the creeping kilos

“WINTER is the time when people tend to go into hibernation and it’s when the extra kilos creep on,” says Justine Lisson, from Power Living Canberra.

Established in Canberra for almost a year, Power Living Canberra promotes wellness and happiness through yoga.

The dynamic style of yoga is practised in a room heated to 30C and is popular with athletes and celebrities.

For people serious about transforming their bodies, Justine recommends three sessions a week.

“You are going to see a real transformation as it focuses on building strength, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness.”

Justine advocates yoga for a healthy lifestyle for people of all ages, but says the benefits for children are plenty.

“Yoga is great for children because it allows them to use different parts of their bodies and builds strength and flexibility.”

Among the regulars at Power Living are many families, according to Justine, with classes for children as young as four.

“We have a lot of fun in our classes and the children practise meditation through yoga games,” she says.

On a personal level, Justine says yoga changed her life.

“I used to work in a 9-to-5 job that was quite stressful, I was dealing with a lot of complaints and when I started learning this type of yoga, I learned that the 9-to-5 lifestyle was no longer for me.”

Justine says all 10 teachers at Power Living Canberra have a similar experience to her, where yoga has transformed their lives and helped them achieve a sense of empowerment.

Married men seek help sooner

MARRIED men seek medical care sooner for heart attacks compared with single, divorced or widowed men, according to a new study in the “Canadian Medical Association Journal”. However, women who were married did not see the same benefit from marriage in seeking faster treatment. The researchers surmise it may be because women are more likely to take the role of caregiver and to urge their spouses to seek care sooner.

“This research gives married men even more reason to love their wives as it shows that women really do have our hearts in their hands,” said Prof James Tatoulis, chief medical advisor at the Heart Foundation.

“Heart attacks kill almost exactly as many women as men so we urge women to be as vigilant about their own heart health as they are about their husbands’.”

More information www.heartattackfacts.org.au or call 1300 362787.

Canberrans training in Singapore

AUSTRALIAN sport safety courses are to be delivered to Singapore following the recent agreement between Sports Medicine Australia ACT Branch (SMA ACT) and Alliance Sports Pte. Ltd. This initiative will see Canberra-based sports medicine professionals provide training to sports medicine professionals in Singapore. The SMA Level 1 Sports Trainers course will increase the number of trained volunteers within Singapore and provide them with the ability to implement appropriate safety measures, before, during and after competition. Participants will also be taught how to prevent injuries, administer sports taping, provide nutrition advice and co-ordinate injury transportation and injury management.

Red-brick cottage gets a big makeover

HOUSE TOUR

Words: Kathryn Vukovljak

Photos: silas Brown

WITH a family room that was “freezing cold in winter and boiling hot in summer”, Carolyn Langley and Matt Ryan’s red-brick Hackett cottage badly needed an overhaul, she says – but it took them 10 years to get round to it.

“The room was unusable, with enormous west-facing windows,” she says. “We always said we’d renovate at some point because the house wasn’t suitable at all.

“But when we bought it, in March 2000, we had a one-year-old and the following year a new baby, so it just never happened.”

Carolyn says that they couldn’t even have people over, because the home had such an “awful” bathroom. “I just couldn’t bring myself to let anyone see it!” she says.

The cottage now has an extra bedroom, a study area, a new kitchen and a robust, contemporary exterior, which Carolyn says she loves.

“We knew we wanted to incorporate Colorbond into the home,” she says.

“The greeny-grey works well with the Canberra light, which can be very bright and harsh, and it sits gently with the native garden we’re planning.”

The home is now flooded with light, with north-facing windows providing ventilation and making the compact home feel spacious. The pale wooden floors help to bounce light around the room, too, says Carolyn.

“They’re the original floorboards, but getting to them was like an archaeological dig!” she says.

“There were layers of different floor coverings – some sticky paper made to look like tiles from the sixties, horsehair carpet, things like that. It was wonderful to finally see the floors, which were in perfect condition. We were working to a budget so we didn’t do anything to them, and we love the light, natural colour.

“The family room is so bright and airy now, and the light plays out differently on every wall.”

Architect Judith Philips, from Philips and Associates, says the alterations and additions have given the house a new life.

“Reusing the existing building and structure makes the project more cost-effective,” she says. “The house now has good thermal insulation, new double-glazed windows, energy-efficient lighting, solar hot water, water tank storage and custom-designed joinery throughout.”

Carolyn says they added 50 per cent

again to the home. “It’s completely changed our lives – it’s been amazing,” she says. “There’s a better flow and the light is incredible now.

“We also replaced the roof and added insulation in the ceiling, walls and floor. We added storage, too, which has been wonderful – a large pantry, cupboards all along the hallway and built-ins in all the bedrooms. Finally there’s no clutter.”

Carolyn says the best thing is that they can entertain at home now.

“Now we have people over at least once a week – I’m no longer ashamed to show anyone my bathroom!”

All hail the hardy magnolia

gardening

cedric Bryant

IT has not taken long to remind us that while we had a remarkable rainfall year last year, it does not take long to go back to drier weather.

One group of plants that continue to surprise us with their hardiness is the magnolia family, despite their origins in China and the Himalayas. Although droughts are not unknown in that part of the world.

Magnolias are a large family and some plants are erroneously commonly called magnolias, for example Michelia figo or Port Wine magnolia. These are technically of the Magnoliaceae family and closely related to Magnolia, but differ in that the flowers are born in the axils of the leaves.

Notwithstanding that, it is an excellent evergreen shrub 2m-3m tall producing small, purple-brown flowers with the most delightful fragrance.

Other Michelia with equally fragrant flowers include Michelia yunnanensis (“Paradise Perfection”) and M. y. “Paradise Starlight”, with white flowers, these grow to 2m-3m tall.

Bob Cherry, of Paradise Plants near Gosford, bred both from stock he collected on his numerous expeditions to China. Cherry says: “These embody the timeless mystery and peaceful contemplation of the temple slopes of China”.

BACK to the main magnolia family and, for the small garden, there is no better plant than Magnola stellata or Star Magnolia. It is obvious where the common name

comes from when one sees it in flower as pictured here. Introduced from Japan in 1862 it was given the prestigious Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society in 1923. This deciduous variety grows to 2m-3m.

A recent introduction is Magnolia “Black Tulip” with huge globular black-red flowers 15cm across. It was bred in NZ and introduced into Australia by Anthony Tesselaar International.

Despite its name, to date no Dutch grower has ever succeeded in breeding a true black tulip, despite coming close. By the same breeders, look out for Magnolia “Felix” and M. “Vulcan” with its fiery red flowers. Magnolia “Leonard Messel” is a magnificent tall shrub or small tree with lilac-pink flowers. This was a chance hybrid found in the famous “Nymans” gardens of

In the garden

LOOK out for Multicrop

EcoAnt, a new organic product that kills ants, earwigs and slaters on impact. EcoAnt is made from eucalyptus oil and pyrethrum and is not a scheduled poison. Available in a ready-to-use trigger pack.

the late Col. Messel, in Sussex, England, given the Award of Merit in 1973.

MAGNOLIA liliiflora was raised at the US National Arboretum at Washington with purple, flushed flowers on the outside and creamy white on the inside of the tulipshaped flowers.

One of the best species for small to medium gardens, it was given the Award of Garden Merit, also in 1973. Taller varieties include M. x soulangeana “San Jose” bred in California in 1938 and M. “Atlas” with lilacpink flowers. Both these can easily grow to 5m-6m and not for the small garden but more for folk with rural holdings that have space for some of these magnificent specimens.

Now is the time to check out your local garden centre as they come into flower. But do check their eventual size!

• • and MagnetMart. Complete rose pruning without delay, except for banksia roses that are pruned after flowering Do not prune foliage off frostdamaged plants until at least mid September/October. Prune hydrangeas to threeleaf nodes (leaf joints) from ground level.

NO gardener can do without Velcro Plant Ties in a 9m roll, a quick and easy, adjustable, reusable tie that does not cut into bark or stems. Suitable for tomatoes and dahlias. Available from garden centres

Sow seeds of biennial plants such as Alcea (hollyhocks) and Digitalis (foxgloves). Watch out for aphids on new rose shoots and emerging Japanese maple leaves.

ACT Property Council 2011 Awards

Magical winners in council’s gala night

IN a bedazzling night of “Moroccan Magic”, 700 guests experienced the Property Council’s ACT awards night and gala ball at the National Convention Centre.

The property industry’s best and brightest were acknowledged at the annual event, presented by St Hilliers.

“It is the most significant on the ACT property industry calendar, and heralds the achievements of the sector’s leading companies and individuals,” says Property Council ACT executive director Catherine Carter.

“The high calibre of entries to this year’s awards reflected enormously on the valuable contribution that commercial property makes to the ACT and its economy.”

The National Gallery of Australia and PTW Architects headed the five major awards bagging the ACT Property Development of the Year title.

The award was one of five

categories that included the ACT Property Business of the Year, won by AMC Design; Management and Property Professional of the Year, Ben Rayner, project director, Canberra Airport and Future Leader of the Year, Dr Rory Eames, ACT/NSW state manager for Viridis E3.

The executive director’s award for Outstanding Contribution to the Property Council was jointly awarded to Hindmarsh development manager Brett Smith and Village Building Company general manager John Kenworthy.

The Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations Office fit-out, was awarded a high commendation for the ACT Property Development of the Year.

Gallery leads the field

THE National Gallery of Australia has been awarded the ACT’s highest honour for development and construction.

The Gallery’s South Entrance & Indigenous Australian Galleries extensions won the prestigious Property Council of Australia Rider Levett Bucknall ACT Property Development of the Year 2011.

The design was by PTW Architects.

Because of the high quality of the projects competing in the awards, a high commendation was also awarded to the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) for the office fit-out in its headquarters building at 50 Marcus Clarke Street, Civic, designed by Woodhead.

At ground level the extensions incorporate a large foyer, arrival facilities, a function room and increased back-ofhouse facilities.

Escalators and a lift connect to the original building entry level and a new suite of

daylit galleries designed for the display of indigenous art. “Skyspace”, a major work by American artist James Turrell is located within the surrounding gardens.

“The new gallery is more accessible, now providing entry at ground level, and the work represents the first increase in display space since the original building was conceived in 1969,” says ACT Property Council executive director Catherine Carter.

“While the extensions use the materials, palette and iconic forms of the original building, they have clearly been constructed as a new work, with added new ideas.”

Mr Mark Chappe, director of award sponsor Rider Levett Bucknall ACT, says: “The National Gallery of Australia was the stand-out choice from a strong field of outstanding properties, because of the excellence of the work and the quality of the build, which has set a new benchmark in public building refurbishment.

“The integration of the new

extension with the older building involved a high degree of complexity, but was achieved seamlessly. As visitors walk through the new space, it is impossible to tell where the new building begins and the

old one ends. They each have their own distinct characters yet seamlessly integrate, and breathe new life into the building, which is a true work of art to both display and protect our important art works.”

Property Business of the Year award winners AMC, from left, Alastair MacCallum, David Cook, award sponsor Robert Knott, of GHD and Dean McPherson.

Dr Rory Eames, of Viridis E3,

receives the Future Leader Award from James Service, chairman, ACT Building & Construction Industry Training Fund Authority.

Sponsor leads industry

PRINCIPAL Sponsor, St Hilliers is one of Australia’s leading private property and construction groups, providing expertise and services in property development, construction and funds management.

ACT Property Council’s Catherine Carter with joint winners of the Executive Director’s Award, left, John Kenworthy, The Village Building Company and Brett

The winners

ACT Property Development of the Year

(Sponsored by Rider Levett Bucknall)

Winner: The National Gallery of Australia and PTW Architects. High Commendation: Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations Office fit-out, nominated by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations and Woodhead.

ACT Property Business of the Year Award

(Sponsored by GHD)

Winner: AMC Design and Management.

Major sponsors are Canberra CBD Limited, Jones Lang LaSalle, Northrop Engineers, SupaBarn, UGL Services, Viisum Chartered

With operations in all capital cities on the eastern seaboard of Australia, St Hillers is well placed to provide clients with a total solution for their property needs.

Accountants, Village Building Company, Westfield Belconnen/ Woden and WSP Lincolne Scott.

The design partner is The Mark Agency, the media partner “CityNews” and Hindmarsh sponsored the night’s entertainment.

Allan Wylucki Property Professional of the Year Award

(Sponsored by Hays Property)

Winner: Ben Rayner, project director, Canberra Airport.

ACT Future Leader of the Year Award

(Sponsored by the ACT Building & Construction Industry Training Fund Authority)

Winner: Dr Rory Eames, ACT/ NSW state manager, Viridis E3. Executive Director’s Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Property Council

Jointly awarded to: Brett Smith, development manager, Hindmarsh and John Kenworthy, general manager, The Village Building Company.

your week in the stars

With Joanne Madeline Moore August 22–28

ARIES

(Mar 21 – Apr 20)

Rushing Rams – Saturn is urging you to slow your motor and cool your heels. Hasty actions and half-baked plans will only lead to long-term frustrations (especially on Thursday). The more you cultivate patience, the better the week will be. When it comes to lasting love, it’s not all flowers and chocolates – romance and responsibility are linked.

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)

It will be difficult to convey your views, as Mercury, Mars and Saturn all cramp (and confuse) your communication style. Don’t give up though! It’s time for Taureans to show your tenacity. Venus and Pluto make beautiful music together on Friday, which bodes well for romantic rendezvous, passionate embraces and erotic encounters.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Mercury is stationary on Friday, so many things in your life will feel at a standstill. Be patient and prepare for the burst of energy that will be released from Saturday onwards, when your ruling planet starts moving forwards again. With the Sun and Venus both visiting your domestic zone, it’s the perfect weekend to play gracious Gemini host or hostess.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

You’re keen to forge ahead but seem to be moving sideways. Don’t be an impatient Crab! Saturn is asking you to slow down and reassess your position. Perhaps you’ve been moving in the wrong direction? The more stubborn you are, the more problems will persist – especially with loved ones. Money matters are on your mind on Sunday.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

You’re dazzled by someone special but make sure they are the real deal. Perhaps you are placing them on a pedestal and seeing what you want to see? Be careful how you communicate your ideas to others, as they may find your ambitious plans threatening. Things improve from Saturday onwards, when Mercury stops reversing through your sign.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)

Mercury is in retrograde motion (until Saturday) so others will behave in ways that are a mystery to you, and your motives may be misunderstood. But with vivacious Venus moving into your sign (until September 15) you’ll be able to charm your way through communication chaos, plus find creative ways to make the most of your versatile Virgo talents.

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)

Don’t worry about mistakes you have made in the past – or fret about the future. Concentrate on the here and now. Mercury and Saturn stall projects during the week but, from Saturday onwards, it’s full steam ahead. Be inspired by birthday great Mother Teresa: “Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.”

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)

If you push your personal agenda in a forceful way, then you’ll meet with resistance from all directions (especially on Thursday). Try fixing problems, rather than causing them. And don’t expect instant results. Saturn is testing your Scorpio stamina! Love is on the menu on Friday, as Venus and Pluto pump up the passion. Singles – don’t settle for second-best.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

With Venus bestowing harmonious vibes in your career zone, concentrate on improving rickety relationships with capricious co-workers. You’ll find charm and compromise will get you a lot further than being blunt and bossy. Friday favours fiery feelings and intense interactions and, for some amorous Archers, a platonic friendship could gradually turn to love.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Mars/Saturn aspects will increase your impatience and lower your tolerance levels. Expect others to oppose your ideas, especially at work. The changes you are keen to make will take time (plus plenty of patience). If a financial deal sounds too good to be true then it probably is. Don’t hesitate to turn your back and walk away – very quickly!

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Be careful you’re not led up the garden path this week. Be an astute Aquarian and check the facts thoroughly before you accept information as gospel truth. Expect baffling backdowns and back-flips from loved ones, as Mercury reverses through your relationship zone (until Saturday). Sunday favours partnerships, so spend quality time with someone special.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Put your fertile imagination to work via a creative collaboration or artistic project. Make sure you’re communicating clearly with others though, and not just living in a fantasy world. Your financial situation continues to be unpredictable. No money one moment and unexpected cash the next! Squirrel extra dollars away to tide you over when times are tight.

Across

3 Name the US painter and etcher (1845-1903), James Abbott ...

7 What describes a person who is younger than another?

8 In heraldry, what is a decoration in the form of a particular shell?

9 What are academy awards known as?

10 Name another term for a pattern, mould, or the like.

11 What is a non-reigning male member of a royal family?

14 Which minerals include emeralds and aquamarines?

17 Name the gas which forms about four-fifths of the volume of the atmosphere.

18 In the military, what do they call an artilleryman?

19 What is that which comes to one by reason of birth?

20 To go back on one's word is to do what?

21 Name another word for love affairs.

Down

1 What do we call one given to playing on words?

2 Name an organic substance essential for the control of metabolic processes.

3 What does a "grappler" do?

4 Name a type of small racing yacht.

5 What is another word for a cradlesong?

6 Which swords are used only for thrusting?

11 What is an alternative name for a black leopard?

12 Which term describes a temporary or provisional arrangement?

13 Name a small fried bread cube used in soups, etc.

14 Which fireworks produce loud bangs?

15 What is an odd piece of cloth, etc, unsold or unused?

16 What is a small medicated confection?

0402 017 912 3BR I

3100 3BR J

Canberra Region Property Summary

BONYTHON

BRUCE

CHAPMAN

CHARNWOOD

Canberra Region Property Summary

CHIFLEY

CHISHOLM

FARRER

FISHER

FLOREY

FLYNN

3BR H Sat 1:30-2:30 102 Zakharov Av First National Gungahlin 0422

441 3BR H Sat 1:40-2:20 1 Neil Harris Cr McGrath Belconnen/Gungahlin 0414 701 465 5BR F Sat 1:45-2:30 8 Horneville St McGrath Belconnen/Gungahlin 0414 701 465 5BR G Sat 2:15-3:15 2/16 Neil Harris Cr McGrath Belconnen/Gungahlin 0418 463 872 3BR Sat 3:00-4:00 11 David Walsh Av First National Gungahlin 0422 774 441 4BR G Sat 3:00-4:00 2 Max Purnell St First National Gungahlin 0422 774 441 4BR G Sun 10:45-11:30 2 Jessie St PRD Nationwide Inner

4BR H Sun 12:00-12:45 2/16 Neil Harris Cr McGrath Belconnen/Gungahlin 0418 463 872 3BR Sun 12:00-1:00 44 Turbayne Cr First National Gungahlin 0408 413

4BR G Sun 12:00-1:00 48 Turbayne Cr First National Gungahlin

Canberra Region Property Summary

HARCOURT HILL

GOWRIE

GREENWAY

HARRISON

GRIFFITH

GUNGAHLIN

HACKETT

THE ONLY MARKETING YOUR PROPERT Y NEEDS

KAMBAH

Ellerston Av Independent Tuggeranong 0407 245 177 3BR J Call Agent 8 Jasper Cl L.J. Hooker Tuggeranong 0412 281 735 3BR I Call Agent 3/91 Keverstone Cct L.J. Hooker Tuggeranong 0409 446 289 3BR A

Call Agent 1/10 Leibnitz Pl L.J. Hooker Tuggeranong 0402 225 405 4BR A Call Agent 12 Marengo Pl Hodgkinson Tuggeranong 0413 453 489 3BR J Call Agent 16 Tumbleton Pl EthicsRealEstate.com.au 0403 246 800 4BR H JERRABOMBERRA

Sat 10:00-10:30 10 English Gr Go Gecko Queanbeyan 02 6299 4400 3BR H Sat 10:00-10:30 1/51 Forest Dr PRDnationwide Canberra 0400 281 395 3BR H Sat 11:00-11:30 1/15 Darmody Pl Go Gecko Queanbeyan 02 6299 4400 3BR I

Sat 11:00-11:30 2/15 Darmody Pl Luton

LYNEHAM

KINGSTON

MCKELLAR

Canberra Region Property Summary

NARRABUNDAH

MELBA

PHILLIP

PIALLIGO

QUEANBEYAN

WARAMANGA

STIRLING

STROMLO/URIARRA

SWINGER HILL

SYMONSTON

THEODORE

Canberra Region Property Summary 100%

WATSON

TORRENS

TURNER

WEETANGERA

WESTON