Canberra CityNews May 17, 2012

Accentuate

2012 Human Rights Arts & Film Festival

Win tickets to a documentary with a passion

“CITYNEWS” has five, $30 double passes to the opening night of the 2012 Human Rights Arts & Film Festival to be won.

The three-night film festival in Canberra opens at the Arc Cinema, 7pm, on Monday, May 28, with Jon Shenk’s feature-length, 2011 documentary “The Island President”, which follows the Maldivian President, Mohamed Nasheed, on his journey to take on the UN in Copenhagen and combat climate change to stop his nation from sinking under rising sea levels.

The UN’s 2009 climate summit in Copenhagen is about to take place and Nasheed is campaigning for the world to recognise that his nation, consisting of almost 2000 islands, is facing extinction. Nasheed sets off to persuade the world to commit to the only target for carbon emission that will guarantee the salvation of the islands.

A small fish in a big pond, Nasheed must convince the developing world that his plight is their own. Paced by a stirring Radiohead score, it’s David meets Goliath in this incredible documentary about a small nation’s strug-

gle against climate change.

The other films in the festival are:

“Our School”, Tuesday, May 29, 7pm, explores progress amidst tradition, presenting a poignant tale of three Roma “gypsy” children trying to find acceptance in a Romanian city school. The documentary follows the children over five years, depicting their struggle to overcome stigma, racism and poverty with courage and a child’s spirit.

“Splinters”, Wednesday, May 30, 7pm, a story about the evolution of indigenous surfing in Papua New Guinea and the first national competition in the seaside village of Vanimo. For the surfers of the village, this is a unique opportunity to compete, but deep-set tribal rivalries hinder community progress days before the competition.

Enter to win tickets at citynews.com.au/competitions

“CityNews” is a media partner of the 2012 Human Rights Arts & Film Festival, Arc Cinema, National Film & Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton, Canberra, May 28-30. More information at www.hraff.org. au

News and reviews every day from the Canberra International

Music Festival

Women top this city’s cold, homeless people

Freyla Ferguson reports

“I REALLY hate the thought of winter coming for the homeless,” said St John’s Care director Sue Jordan. “It’s pretty miserable being homeless in Canberra, very miserable.

“The most surprising thing is that the highest proportion of homelessness is women.

“They are very hidden, because they are so vulnerable, it can be a result of domestic violence and that sort of thing.

“When you say homelessness and a rough sleeper you immediately think of a 60-year-old, drunk male; I can assure you that I only know one of them. Out of all that I know, most of them are younger.”

Ms Jordan said last year St John’s Care fed 6000 people.

“We give away about $300,000 worth of food a year,” she said.

“And we’ve got no safe shelter here at all in Canberra for homeless people, so their choice is to live in the drain, or under a bridge or in a car park.

“Which is pretty shocking in Canberra. Homelessness, at any time, you have probably got 1300 people in Canberra.

“That includes your couch surfers, but your rough sleepers, on any one night you’d probably have about 50 to 60 rough sleepers, and they’re the ones that, really, my heart goes out to them, they’ve got nothing.”

index / contacts

Arts&Entertainment 21-24

Canberra Confidential 17

Cinema 23

Dining 24

Garden 26-27

Home 28

News 2-11

Politics 4

Property 30-32

Puzzles 29

Social Scene 13-16

FRONT COVER: Salvos’

champion Janine Yokum.

Story Page 5.

Photo by Silas Brown

But with the help of the Canberra City branch of Rotary, the non-government funded organisation, St John’s Care will be able to provide small comfort by distributing new swags to the homeless this winter.

“We especially go and get sleeping bags to cope with under 19C, but it’s pretty cold when it gets down to 5C and 6C and you’ve got the frost on you,” Sue said.

“That’s why the swags are good, they’ve got their cover over them and a mat that keeps them

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off the ground a little.”

Canberra City Rotary raised about $3000 to buy the swags for St John’s Care through their twice-yearly Antique Fairs at Albert Hall.

The swags, from Street Swags, are made by inmates of the Woodford and Grafton Correctional Centres and are available only for charities.

Rotary Canberra City branch member Paul Rafferty said he learnt of the Street Swags operation from an article.

“I read about it and thought it would be a good

thing for us to do,” he said.

“We buy them and give them out. We wish we could buy more.”

In total, St John’s Care gives away about 30 swags, between 20 and 30 sleeping bags and between 10 and 15 one-person tents a year.

“One of the things with homelessness is that you lose your things all the time,” Ms Jordan said.

“[The swag] gets stolen, or you put it down and it’s gone. During the winter, they go through about three or four sleeping bags and swags and so they come and ask for a new one.”

The Canberra City Rotary branch also raises money for socks for the organisation by holding “Silly Socks” days at local private schools –where kids can wear their silly socks to school for a gold-coin donation.

“Paul is a really great scavenger for me with socks,” she said.

“[Homeless people’s] feet are awful. They are on their feet all the time and they go through their socks. Paul has been getting some really great explorer socks.”

Ms Jordan said without the help of groups, such as Rotary, the organisation would not survive.

“We are a Canberra organisation, wholly Canberra and we are here to support Canberrans,” she said.

More information on St John’s Care, visit 43 Constitution Avenue, Reid or phone 6248 7771. Anglicare Pantry Appeal for non-perishable food starts next month, for more information visit anglicarecg.org.au/Get-Involved/Appeals/GetInvolved-Appeals.asp

news / politics

Libs’ long-service lurch

SIX months out from an election and Vicki Dunne has the Liberals threatening longservice leave. It might not be official Liberal Party policy, but voters will have to remain suspicious.

Indications are that the Liberal front-bencher will be trying to persuade colleagues to get rid of long-service leave benefits, probably arguing about improved productivity in the ACT and a snowball effect for the rest of Australia.

The Greens’ Amanda Bresnan challenged these ideas and provided an important insight.

“A few weeks ago… Dunne said that the Liberals were fundamentally opposed to portable long-service leave schemes and Dunne has again said that today,” she said.

But the Liberal Opposition spokesperson on industrial relations went much further by challenging long-service leave provisions for all workers. She “condemned” the government’s legislation to extend long-service leave to security workers, raising a fair question about whether long-service leave should be portable to workers within an industry – such as people working in the security area – rather than being rewarded for loyalty to a specific business.

In this area she challenged previous portability provisions for the community sector and was arguing extension of the scheme to other low-paid workers is not something the Liberals support.

However, she made a paradigm shift for the Liberals in challenging the whole right to longservice leave across all workers.

Even if cutting long-service leave entitlements is not in the Opposition’s platform at the next election, Dunne’s pronouncements should

Michael Moore politics

be unnerving, at the very least, for workers in the ACT public service. And they come at a time when even the Labor Budget at the Federal level has attacked superannuation benefits.

“The concept for long-service leave is a reward for loyalty of service to an employer”, is the argument that she was originally making. However, Dunne went on to suggest that long-service leave entitlements are “unique to Australia and NZ and was established in early colonial days. In those days it was considered reasonable for citizens to be able to sail home to England or Ireland or from wherever they came… in the knowledge their job would still be there when they returned. It is a real and intended purpose now redundant for many obvious reasons”.

Thanks for the history lesson.

Bresnan fired back: “Every time we have seen legislation come before the Assembly that is about making Canberrans working lives better, the Liberals oppose it.

“There is no stronger example of individuals and families who are doing it tough, working on low wages at irregular hours, which has an impact on people and their family lives. What this is about is giving them time with their family.”

Long-service leave might not be on the agenda for a party platform at the next election, but such public positioning, particularly by the person with this responsibility, has to make us wary.

Accentuate the positive, says upbeat Janine

It’s because of the Salvos that Janine Yokum’s mother was able to cope and Janine has been giving back to them for so long as she can remember, reports LIBBY HILL

BANK manager Janine Yokum lives her life looking for positive things.

When someone cuts in front of her in traffic, she stays positive about it. And she is positive when she looks back at the hardships she endured as a child.

“You can be a victim all your life if you want to be – and a lot of people do play on that – but it’s a waste of energy,” Janine says.

Janine’s father walked out on his wife and their four children when the youngest was 10-months-old.

“My dad left when I was four, so my mum didn’t have a good experience around what it’s like to be a wife,” Janine says.

“She raised us on her own and did the best she could with what she had.”

At age 15, Janine left her home in NZ and moved to Australia.

“New Zealand, at the time, didn’t have a lot of employment opportunities. My mum was supposed to come with me and she chickened out,” she says.

However, Janine’s life has been shaped by the hardships her mother has endured.

Janine’s grandmother didn’t like girls so her mother, one of three children, ended up in an orphanage run by

the Salvation Army.

It’s because of the Salvos that Janine’s mother was able to cope and Janine has been giving back to them for so long as she can remember.

“Treat people as you’d like to be treated, is something that was drummed into me from a very young age,” she says.

For the past two years she has been the chairperson of the Belconnen Zone for the Salvos Red Shield Appeal Doorknock and this year she is the Residential Appeal chairperson for the Salvos Red Shield Appeal Doorknock right across Canberra.

“The Salvos will help anybody,” she says. “They’re not judgemental about who they support or help. It doesn’t matter what religion you are and they don’t throw their religion down your throat.

“They believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God, but when you go in to talk to them, it’s not mentioned.

“If you sat down with them because you had an issue, it’s not about ‘God’s going to save you’ it’s just about ‘how can we help you?’

“They just help because that’s what they should do and that, to me, is a really good thing.

“The doorknock is something that actually helps the community.

“So if you donate in the Belconnen area, that money will stay in the Belconnen area.”

Janine is the Westpac bank man-

ager of the Belconnen branch. Last year, she was also an ACT winner of the Telstra Business Women’s Awards.

A hairdresser by trade, Janine is a mother of two and stepmother to two. She first started working for the

Westpac bank as a teller in Sydney and three years later got her first branch manager role.

As a banker she would see people who wanted access to funds that they couldn’t afford to pay back.

“If I could see that they were genuine and really needed help I’d send them to the Salvos,” she says.

“I think you’ve got to give back to the community. I try to get out to schools to show children that’s what you should do.

“It gives me pleasure to help other people.

“I feel like I’ve got good karma but I don’t think I’m perfect. It makes me feel like a better person to know that I’ve helped someone else. I think it’s good for your soul.”

Local Salvation Army Captain Dale Murray says Janine is a real success story for the Salvos in Canberra.

“She is an example of how a lady in a high position of employment can not only herself make a valuable contribution to the Salvos Red Shield Appeal, but how she encourages her staff, as well as customers, to get involved as well,” he says.

“It shows that we all have a part to play, whatever position we may hold.”

The Red Shield Appeal Doorknock is on the weekend of May 19-20. Go to salvos.org.au or call 137258 to donate.

opinion

letters

Spin and bribes

THE Federal Budget is full of astonishing spin, but it has no surplus as the National Broadband Network is not included.

Journos have picked up the obvious shuffling from one year to another, to “manufacture” a surplus.

Few have picked up the obvious vote buying for an election, with the obvious education bribes arriving early in the year (March elections) and later in the year (August elections).

The economic commentators have failed to hit upon the incidence of taxes having being distracted by the nonsense “Robin Hood” rhetoric. Company revenue just like the carbon tax will come from the pockets of all consumers ultimately. The divide-and-rule spin is cynical politics at its worst and complete rubbish as well.

Martin Gordon, Flynn

Just ask him!

PATRICIA Saunders wonders whether Mark Parton is preparing to run in the ACT elections (“Silly spray from Parton”, CN, May 3). Why don’t you just ask him? I did, and he is most approachable.

Ric Hingee, Duffy

‘Dicshinry’ to the rescue

AFTER reading Hilary Warren’s letter about the mispronunciation of certain words (CN, May 3), I looked them all up in the online version of the “Macquarie Dictionary”. It says that:

1. “Canberra” is pronounced /ˈkænbrə/ or / ˈkænbərə/, which means that it can have two or three syllables. (I explained why the N often becomes M in CN, April 26.)

2. “Dictionary” is pronounced /ˈdɪkʃənri/ or / ˈdɪkʃənəri/, which means that it can have three or four syllables.

3. “Secretary” is pronounced /ˈsekrətri/, which means that the “Macquarie Dictionary” says that it has three syllables. Other dictionaries indicate that the American pronunciation of this word is the foursyllable version: /ˈsekrəteri/. (No dictionaries accept “secetree”.)

Hence, the three words above have a long version and a short version. They all accept “dicshinry”. P. Lizares, via email

Alexander would turn

RECENTLY, in the media there was a suggestion by the Chief Minister that a tattoo parlour might be an acceptable addition to the Alexander Maconochie Centre. Some people are obviously extremely determined

to get tattoo guns or needles of some kind into the jail. I believe the first dilemma for our Government would be in selecting the particular bikie gang to issue the franchise!

It is well known that tattooing can be a major distributor of Hep C. Subsequent to its own inquiries, the ACT Government announced last year its rejection of a medically supervised injecting centre in Canberra – even under very close medical supervision. Surely Alexander Maconochie, who ran a drug-free prison, would turn in his grave at the thought of having tattoo gun clubs and a higher risk of Hep C in the AMC. Colliss Parrett, Barton

Missing motorsports

WHY is it any media about motorsport in the national capital brings out the worst in whingers, tiny minds and, God bless them, the nimbys and governments? Prior to and in the early days of self government Canberra boasted some of the finest professional motorsport and competitors in Australia.

Drag racing, speedway, international long-track, international rallying and V8 supercars all commanded high praise to an international level while several smaller sprint and rally events and top level racing car shows graced the ACT.

There were the annual international moto-X, international long-track, stadium buggy, hot rod drags and monster truck events as well as professional driver education and fuel economy trials that relied on these venues to bring their own brand of entertainment to thousands of local and interstate participants, supporters and visitors.

Sadly, minority opponents of such things and acrossborder influences gained a stranglehold over whichever self government of the day and, behold, the national capital was well on its way to being totally sanitised of major forms of motorsport events.

Year in year out the Summernats, an internationally recognised Australian concept, is attacked by ACT residents who have no perception of the visitors and revenue that comes with it.

I would hate to think of the millions of dollars Canberra has lost, plus the millions consecutive governments have spent, to block major motorsport events and facilities from succeeding in the capital while spending, in many cases overspending or straight losses, on AFL, rugby, pushbike paths, street art and an arboretum.

Me, I don’t care anymore, but I am concerned for the kids, the 20-somethings who have missed it but would really love to be part of the excitement.

Michael Attwell, Dunlop

Dreaming of Julia, Tony, anybody!

2CC drive show announcer MIKE WELSH has an itch he can’t get scratched, so to speak

I HAVE a confession: I’ve never done it. Apparently, everyone around me has and continues to, but I just can’t seem to crack it.

I’m something of a virgin. Despite decades in the news business, I’m yet to pop my “interview a serving PM” cherry.

A short, sharp “g’day” from Julia Gillard recently when our walking paths crossed beside Lake Burley Griffin is as close as I’ve come, but not close enough.

I’ve interviewed many Prime Ministers over the past 30 years, but as “has beens” – Whitlam, Fraser and Keating, and as “wannabes”–Hawke, Howard and Rudd. Plus a bunch of “would-be-ifthey-could-bes” in Peacock, Hewson, Beasley and Latham. But I’m still to break my duck interviewing someone who is actually in The Lodge.

At Melbourne’s Southern Cross Hotel, early evening, on that “one day in September”, 1977, after a long and emotional day at the MCG watching North Melbourne and Collingwood draw the VFL Grand Final, I loitered into a lift heading for an “enforced” early night.

The lift contained a tall and broad-shouldered man who, in my “emotional” state, looked vaguely familiar. I told him as much, too.

He held out a huge hand and, with a booming but cultured voice, subtly suggested

I’d obviously “had a good day at the football, comrade”. He alighted at the next floor, no doubt smirking at the drunken bogan who failed to fully recognise the great E.G. Whitlam.

A trench-coated, cigarpuffing, Silver Bodgie came on my show for a chat during the 1980s campaign in support of a local candidate. But R.J.Hawke had to wait a little longer for the keys to The Lodge. The encounter didn’t count.

During the campaign of ‘84, I interviewed John Howard and Andrew Peacock.

On Melbourne Cup day 1984, an agitated Peacock came in for an on-air chat with a dozen or so members of the press gallery in tow. I asked callers to be brief with the questions as Peacock had to fly back to Melbourne to the Flemington racecourse. The media pack had fun with that the next day.

A quote in “The Australian” said: “Mr Welsh didn’t need to issue the brevity warning to callers... there were none.”

Malcolm Fraser has also been on my program many times since leaving The Lodge. Despite all this, I remain a “maiden performer” when it comes to interviewing “serving” PMs. With time running out for Gillard to “do the deed” for me, it looks as though I’ll have to settle for Tony Abbott – and just lie back and think of Malcolm Turnbull!

Tax gives and takes

THE ACT Government’s agreement in principle to the abolition of duty on conveyances (stamp duty) is a significant step in the right direction.

This follows the release of the ACT Taxation Review, headed by former Treasurer Ted Quinlan, as a starting point for consultation on how to reform the taxation system.

The review found that stamp duty is the most unstable and unpredictable tax, and unfair in that it raises about a quarter of the total taxation revenue of the Territory from about 9 per cent of the people whose circumstances may impose the necessity to move to different accommodation.

It is also good to see the Government agreeing to, in principle, adopt a broad-based land tax as a base for revenue replacement to ensure there are no disincentives to house -

holds and businesses to locate and invest within the Territory’s borders.

The review recommends supporting urban densification to improve the efficiency of the city, provide greater choice and opportunity to leverage and enhance existing social infrastructure.

While there would be little disagreement with this, the objective is undermined by the recommendation to use the Lease Variation Charge (LVC) to capture the increase in valuation of a parcel of land from its higher-valued use.

The panel’s failure to analyse the impact of the LVC on existing home owners, buyers of redeveloped properties and renters leaves a big gap in the review.

Members of the Tuggeranong Ukulele Gang... “There’s an instant sense of gratification that ukulele playing offers because it only has four strings,” says leader Andrew Hackwill.

Ukes in hand, the gang’s all here

WHAT is it about ukuleles? The small guitar is making a comeback and will be celebrated at a festival in the capital later this year.

Andrew Hackwill runs the Tuggeranong Ukulele Gang (TUGs) and says people get a sense of achievement from playing the ukulele.

“There’s an instant sense of gratification that ukulele playing offers because it only has four strings. People are left going: ‘This is easier than I thought’,” he says.

Many of the members of TUGs are retirees who feel like they’ve missed the musical boat.

“You see these kids aged four and they’re playing the violin for a half an hour every day and for older people there is this sense that if you don’t do that, it’s too late,” Andrew says.

“But we have people come along who are absolute beginners and within a half an hour we have them playing 10 songs.”

Ukuleles also bring a sense of connectedness for the members of TUGs.

“People are really enjoying the sense of community,” he says.

“It’s about networking. Isn’t the ukulele

Libby Hill reports

a great excuse to get out and talk?

“As much as it’s the musical aspect and the singing aspect, it’s that thing that’s innate, that’s essential to human beings, which is music. The other thing that is essential for human beings is to be around other people. It’s about connecting and reconnecting people.”

Playing a ukulele is easy, fun and accessible, says Andrew because it’s not expensive.

TUGs members meet fortnightly at Tuggeranong Arts Centre and mostly play late ‘50s early ‘60s rock ‘n’ roll.

“Our favourites are songs like ‘Run Around Sue’, ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You’, ‘Chantilly Lace’ and ‘Eight Days a Week’,” Andrew says.

“These aren’t tunes people really have to learn because the songs are already in their head.”

The Canberra Ukulele Festival of Fun was held for the first time last year and has received funding from the ACT Government for the 2012 event in October.

“This year our focus is on community ukulele groups. We intend to have some quality players and headlining artists, but at the end of the day, it’s about that group of 30 people from the south coast jumping on a bus and playing their way down to Canberra on ukuleles,” he says.

Andrew plans to bring about 2500 people to Canberra during the Ukulele Festival next year to contest the Guinness World Record in Canberra for its centenary.

TUGs has 100 members, but gets about five new members every fortnight, testament to the growing popularity of the ukulele.

Andrew, a former woodwind teacher says many schools are now teaching ukulele instead of the recorder because it’s more fun and simpler.

“The ukulele was invented in 1879 and became huge in the ‘20s and then in the ‘60s. Tiny Tim did a great disservice to it and it’s coming back now,” he says.

The Canberra Ukulele Festival of Fun, October 19 to 21, Tuggeranong Arts Centre. TUGs meets every second Sunday at the centre, 1pm-3pm. Beginner session from 12.30pm. For information go to tugsss.ning. com

opinion

Who’s listening to Wayne?

Had the Budget been delivered by almost anyone other than Wayne Swan it would have been roundly applauded, says ROBERT MACKLIN

WAYNE SWAN has the same problem as his Prime Minister – he talks like he’s been pre-recorded and all the interesting, human stuff has been edited out.

In Question Time, at least Julia Gillard is able to think on her feet and keep your interest. Not Wayne. Every time he opens his mouth at the Despatch Box it’s like air escaping from a punctured tyre. There’s a big puff of wind to begin with and then it just hisses out and sinks down to the rim.

He has trouble sounding his “rrs” – “pretending” comes out “pertending” and as he raises his voice and speeds up his delivery the words themselves lose all meaning; they’re just a hurdy-gurdy of sound; he becomes Shakespeare’s “poor player who struts and frets his hour upon the stage and is heard no more... full of sound and fury, and signifying nothing”.

This is sad because the Government has a good story to tell. But so long as Wayne is telling it, no one is much interested in listening. So why, we may ask, does the Prime Minister not put him out to grass in the gentlest possible way, offering him a grand diplomatic post like the Court of St James… anything, really, that would make way for a replacement?

The truth is, she’d love to.

But she’s stuck with him.

First, he has that most desirable quality for a deputy – he’s no threat to her leadership. In all the speculation of the last 12 months no one has seriously put Wayne forward as a candidate. And while this really gets his goat, it’s practically a guarantee that his job is safe.

Second, he’s a Queenslander and the party that sacked the first Queensland PM since Artie Fadden in the 1940s just

can’t afford to offend bananabenders’ sensibilities. And there’s absolutely no one else from that great State who could be promoted to fill his Treasurer’s boots.

Third, if Wayne did fall under a bus tomorrow, the most qualified replacement is generally regarded as the current Immigration Minister and former Assistant Treasurer, Chris Bowen. However, he is identified with the Kevin Rudd forces who got suckered into a challenge for the leadership by Simon Crean several months ahead of schedule. And my personal favourite, the Finance Minister Senator Penny Wong

is in the wrong house.

So Wayne is about as safe in his job as any politician has the right to expect. He even has a declared opponent for his seat of Lilley in Clive Palmer who virtually guarantees him reelection.

But to what? That’s the rub: if he stays in his present post Labor will lose the treasury benches. He’ll be consigned to the wilderness of Opposition to a government that will dismantle all his good work. He’ll just have to sit there and watch it all go down the drain.

And it’s no good “pertending” otherwise. robert@robertmacklin.com

Big winners

THE $24 million Kings Avenue Overpass, built by Woden Contractors from Queanbeyan, has been recognised for its Construction Excellence in the annual Civil Contractors Federation (CCF) ACT Earth Awards. Other winners were Huon Management Services for the plexiglass bridge safety screens over Adelaide Avenue; Acclaim Contractors, for the second stage of refurbishment of the paving and landscaping around London Circuit; and Chincivil in constructing the Springbank Rise at Casey Stage 2 subdivision.

Gift for victims

THE Victims of Crime Assistance League ACT is the beneficiary of the opening-night performance of “An Inspector Calls” by Tempo Theatre, at Belconnen Community Theatre, Swanston Street, Thursday, May 24. Tickets are $30 (concession, $25) from 6295 9600.

Rocks and more

THE Canberra Lapidary Club is holding its Winter Gemcraft and Mineral Show, offering rough and cut gemstones, jewellery, fossils, opals, crystals, beads, beading supplies and lapidary equipment for sale, at Exhibition Park, 10am-5pm, over the weekend of June 2-3. Entrance to the event is $5, $8 family, $2 children/concession. More information at canberralapidary.org.au

Birthday lunch

WESTON Creek VIEW (Voice, Interests and Education of Women) Club will celebrate its birthday at the Southern Cross Club, 11am, Tuesday, June 5. There will be entertainment by poets Laurie McDonald and Denise Burton, and a two-course lunch for $20. VIEW clubs raise funds for the Smith Family’s “Learning for Life” program. RSVP to 6299 5338 by June 1.

Naomh’s plight inspires grandmother’s mission

Freyla Ferguson reports

IT came as a big shock to Naomh Barrie’s family when she was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes four years ago.

“With all the things in hindsight, even a lay person could go: ‘I think that’s diabetes’; we didn’t piece it together until she was very, very sick,” says mum Ele Saclier.

Naomh, now 15, suffered the telltale signs of type 1 diabetes including weight loss, extreme thirst and tiredness, that eventually led to her hospitalisation.

But with the shock of her illness, came overwhelming community support thanks to Naomh’s grandmother Wendy Saclier.

“It was a great shock to everybody,” Wendy says. “Towards the end of that year I thought: ‘What can we do as a community to support research into type 1 diabetes?’”

Wendy, along with family and neighbours in her street in Curtin, rallied together and using their own skills, cooked, sewed and crafted items to sell in a special event for the neighbourhood held at her home, to raise money for juvenile diabetes awareness and research.

“I live in a community that is fan-

tastic and that’s always supportive to anybody in the area,” she says.

“I talked to my friends in the street about doing a fundraiser to support diabetes, so we did that here in this room, which became a shop.”

Wendy, a quilter and part of Canberra Quilters, also called on the support of local businesses including The

Hairdressing Salon in Civic, WarbiSarbi Designs, Bead Street, Addicted to Fabric and the Thursday Friendship Group. Well-known quilter Kerry Gavin also donated quilts to the cause. And so far they have raised about $14,000 in three years, going towards the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Diabetes ACT and the Can-

berra Hospital Foundation for caring for children with diabetes.

“She made an amazing recovery thanks to the support of the unit in the Canberra Hospital,” Wendy says.

“We are very fortunate for this here, and to have the kinds of help these young people receive.”

So far so good for Naomh and with

the special care from The Canberra Hospital’s pediatrics unit, under the leadership of pediatric endocrinologist Dr Tony Lafferty, she has successfully managed the condition with an insulin pump that’s connected to her stomach.

“Diabetes is a big challenge day-today and long term,” Ele says.

“Naomh has shown extraordinary strength and courage from the very beginning.

“That’s not to say she doesn’t have ‘down’ moments – emotionally and socially it can be tough, but to be honest, I don’t think she – or we – would have known the depths of resources that she possesses if she hadn’t had this hand dealt to her.”

It is still unknown what causes type 1 diabetes but, unlike type 2, it’s not linked to lifestyle.

Symptoms of type 1 diabetes include: being excessively thirsty; passing more urine; feeling tired and lethargic; always feeling hungry; having cuts that heal slowly; itching, skin infections; blurred vision; unexplained weight loss; mood swings; headaches; feeling dizzy; and leg cramps.

It’s currently Jelly Belly month with funds raised by the sale of merchandise and lollies going towards medical research for people with type 1 diabetes. More information at www. jdrf.org.au

The college where Shakespeare can wait

Have you even wondered how young, elite sportspeople have time to go to school, asks TIM GAVEL?

Sport offers great opportunities, but if young people are balancing the demands of elite sport representation with the academic requirements of the education system, life can be very demanding.

They are either training or competing, they are here one day and overseas the next. Are there special rules allowing them to study when they are in the middle of trying to qualify for the Olympic or Commonwealth Games?

This is where Canberra can stand up and be proud of one of its unique opportunities for young athletes who wish to gain an education while still advancing their career in sport.

The University of Canberra Senior Secondary College Lake Ginninderra (formerly Lake Ginninderra College), will this week unveil its Top 25 athletes to be inducted into the college’s 25-year Hall of Fame.

The naming of these athletes demonstrates the role that Canberra is playing in educating a number of the biggest names not only in Australian sport, but on the world stage.

Canberra-based Australian Institute of Sport scholarship holders were

initially schooled at Dickson College before Lake Ginninderra College was opened in 1987.

Since then, almost 1000 AIS athletes have attended and graduated from the college. They all complete the ACT Certification within a specialised program. Athletes work with mentors to ensure that they don’t fall behind in their academic work.

In some cases, athletes missed entire terms but were given flexibility to catch up. Understandably, the focus is not on academic attainment at that time, with their future already

mapped out on the world sporting stage. The need to understand the complexities of Shakespeare or apply logarithmic equations can come later.

These days, most sports wrap their athletes in “cotton wool”, preventing them from competing in school sport –but it wasn’t always the case. Take, for example, Mark Viduka who lined up alongside his Lake Ginninderra soccer team mates, or Petria Thomas and Daniel Marsden, at the school swimming carnival. There’s also basketball players Shane Heal, Patrick Mills, and

volleyballer Ben Hardy, who also competed at the college level.

It is difficult to imagine an Australian school with a greater representation in Olympic and world sport.

The Lake Ginninderra Top 25 inducted into the College’s Hall of Fame reads like a “who’s who” of Australian sport: soccer stars, Viduka, Lucas Neill and Craig Moore; swimmers, Thomas, Adam Pine and Linley Frame; tennis player, Todd Woodbridge; archery’s Tim Cuddihy; gymnast, Philippe Rizzo; basketballers Andrew Bogut, Lauren Jackson, Mills, Penny Taylor

and Liz Cambage. All but five players from the Opal’s part three Olympic Games’ teams attended the college. Other greats include volleyballer, Ben Hardy – the list goes on and on. Some athletes yet to be inducted include Kevin Muscat, Sarah Ryan and Brennon Dowrick.

Many of these athletes had been parachuted into Canberra because of their sporting prowess, but the athletes have developed a close affinity with the college for which the institution can be proud, along with all of Canberra.

At Jazz at the Gallery, CGS Gallery, Red Hill

Canberra Confidential

Gals making big moves

CANBERRA will be well represented by two winning ladies at the 2012 Chess Olympiad in Istanbul this August.

Arianne Caoili, Australia’s top-ranked female player, will be joined by 17-year-old Lake Ginninderra College student Emma Guo

Teams from more than 140 countries will compete in the Olympiad.

Caoili has been selected to play on the first board and Guo was selected on board three of the five-player team. Guo started her chess career as a sevenyear-old, and quickly attracted attention with her performances at ACT Junior Chess League events.

Caoili started playing chess at age six and has appeared on the fifth season of TV’s “Dancing with the Stars”, where she made it to the final.

Music lovers angry

CANBERRA music lovers are very angry, writes arts editor Helen Musa. At last count there were nearly 16,000 signatures to a petition circulated in response to change at the ANU School of Music: www.communityrun. org/petitions/savetheanuschoolofmusic-1

Back to the Parlour

FANS of Parlour Wine Room rejoice: the popular New Acton institution will be back, not soon – but eventually. “CC” hears the bar looks set to re-open in March/April next year.

Designs on what?

“STYLE and Design” is the theme for Floriade’s big silver anniversary, but Tourism Minister Andrew Barr, who will be sweating that nothing goes amiss during the annual spring flower fandango, which ends on October 14 – just a week before the next ACT election, was uncharacteristically vague on what “style and design” actually means. He said the theme would “inspire the

unique design of the garden beds and the accompanying entertainment and horticulture program”. And so?

Anyway, election campaigns or not, Floriade will be in full swing from September 15 and Night Fest is back, too – September 26-30. We’ve just got to get through winter first!

Calling old players

WHAT do Communications Minister Stephen Conroy, ACT Speaker Shane Rattenbury and the late, distinguished federal public servant Charles Perkins have in common?

It’s the ANU Footy Club, that’s what, and the reigning Capital Football Club Championship winner is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a gala dinner on Saturday, June 9. ANU FC is hoping to reach as many former players as possible and president Ed Huddy will take the calls on 0402 299849 or to president@anufc.org.au

Andrea’s out there

ACTOR and presenter Andrea Close is trying to “get the word out there” that she’s looking for new challenges, workwise.

The former ABC 666 presenter has almost 20 years in radio and TV production and presentation, journalism and media liaison, media training, publicity and PR.

“Versatility, a desire to expand on that skills base and a willingness to travel if needed makes me a pretty good bet,” she says.

“CC” looks forward to seeing where Andrea pops up next!

recognise these “CityNews” cover-girls-turned-Jammies

Big fans for baby fashions

LOOKS like Thoroughbred Park’s marketing manager and girl-about-town Briony Young is emerging as something of an entrepreneur.

The owner of modelling company Verve Promotions – and self-described “savvy marketing type” – has partnered with fashion designer and stylist Janette Lenk to launch Jammies – a business that sells onesies for adults.

Traditionally popular attire for newborn

babies, the all-in-one pyjamas come in pink, purple and blue, and cost $60.

According to the Jammies website: “Our quirky idea to sell these fabulous pyjamas was born out of pure demand – who doesn’t want a pair of these fun Jammies to blast the winter blues away?

“We live in them on the weekends and have even ventured out into public a few times!”

Get yours at jammies.com.au

conferences & training

Be tempted, come

Some of the best conference venues and training opportunities within Canberra and the region are here in this special feature, where we highlight the venues, resources and businesses that will tempt you to come to a conference...

Managing more with less

MANAGING your workload, where you are required to do more with less is challenging, according to Deanne Ranyard, from CIT Solutions.

“When performance outputs are demanding, work deadlines are tight and expectations are high, it’s important to choose the right type of training to enhance your ability to do your work that is timely and relevant,” she says.

CIT Solution’s Professional Development Days were designed to support the recommendation made in the Moran Report 2010 to the Australian Government, to expand learning and development opportunities for all APS employees.

“If you want current, high-quality information delivered in an engaging and enjoyable manner; if you want to gain new skills, knowledge and tools that you can apply immediately in the workplace, then our Professional Development Days are for you,” Deanne says.

More information at pdd.citsolutions.edu.au

Comfort with peace and quiet

COUNTRY Comfort Greenway is located 20 minutes south of the Canberra CBD and the airport. Set against the backdrop of the Brindabella Ranges with nature and wildlife at its doorstep, the hotel offers peace and quiet and is still within walking distance of the Hyperdome shopping centre, DHS national office, FaHCSIA, Defence and major sporting facilities. The conference facilities cater for groups of 10 to 150 and the team will co-ordinate conferences, meetings, planning days or workshops.

All conference rooms have natural light with glass doors opening to a private deck for breaks, lunch or some fresh air. Breakout rooms are available. Country Comfort Greenway is a 100-room hotel featuring a variety of guest rooms, fully licensed restaurant and bar, indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, spa and gym. 46 Rowland Rees Crescent, Greenway. Contact 6293 3666 or functions.greenway@ countrycomforthotels.com

to a conference

Big value from coaching

ACCORDING to the 2009 “ICF Global Coaching Client Study”, companies that use or have used professional coaching for business reasons have seen a median return on investment seven times their initial investment. Individual clients reported a median return on investment of 3.44 times their investment.

Key to Success Coaching offers a complementary and obligation-free 30-minute session for potential clients to experience how it feels to be coached.

A coaching session runs for 50 minutes, and is delivered as often as required.

Coaching can help with reaching goals, achieving work/life balance, getting more joy in your life, making decisions and changes, relationships and identifying values and making choices consistent with them. Unlike therapy or counselling, coaching does not focus on “fixing” issues or behaviours from the past.

Coaching focuses on the “what” and “how to” of the present and future. And in contrast to consulting or advising, a coach does not tell you what to do – a coach’s job is to help you discover the right direction for yourself.

Contact 0420 796659 or keytosuccesscoaching.net

Ultra-modern hotel near the beach

CHIFLEY Wollongong is an ultra-modern hotel situated on Wollongong’s foreshore, adjacent to WIN Sports and Entertainment Centre and Wollongong Golf Course.

The hotel is only a stone’s throw from Wollongong’s beaches, and a two-minute stroll to cafes, restaurants and the shopping precinct.

Sales and marketing manager Leanne Santos says the conference and meeting rooms of Chifley Wollongong have the flexibility to host five guests, to 500 guests.

Boutique approach

THE boutique conference rooms at Forrest Hotel and Apartments are an ideal location for a small business meeting, seminar or function, according to owner Dorothy Barclay.

“Ideal for day, half-day or residential meetings, at the Forrest Hotel, you’re always assured of our team’s courteous attention,” she says.

“It’s a calm environment, not bound by four walls or the fuss of bigger establishments. Our clients enjoy state-of-the-art facilities and are impressed by the choice of residential and catering packages we offer.”

The Nottingham Room caters for up to 80 delegates and the new Yorkshire room caters for up to eight.

30 National Circuit, Forrest. Contact 6295 3433 or forresthotel.com

“Rooms offer varying styles of a grand ballroom, small boardrooms, and the popular Watersedge room, overlooking the hotel pool, with a private terrace and abundance of floor to ceiling natural lighting,” she says.

As an additional meeting area, she says, the restaurant offers a private dining room with natural light and access to an outdoor terrace, which caters for up to 48 guests.

More information at chifleywollongong.com

arts & entertainment

Kate versus a busy, busy world

KATE Hosking is such a busy artist that you’d wonder how she has time to play the title role in Jigsaw Theatre’s long-awaited production, “Pearl Verses the World”.

An instrumentalist, singer, dancer and choreographer who has just completed a bachelor of professional music practice degree at the ANU, she’s better known as a double-bass player from the world music trio, Vardos.

Right now, she’s studying hip-hop dance at Dance Central, Woden, and for a diploma of secondary education at the University of Canberra. As well, The Street Theatre’s Caroline Stacey has signed her up for a staging of the cabaret piece “A Cycle in Song”, which Hosking wrote during her mentorship as part of the theatre’s dramaturgical program The Hive, but based on an idea she’d had for five years.

Hosking certainly is busy, but says it’s “all in the timing”, and university and dance class breaks slotted in conveniently to allow her time to play

reports

the role of Pearl, a little girl grappling with a changing world and the illness of her beloved grandmother.

The play, based on Sally Murphy’s prizewinning, free-verse novel, “Pearl Verses the World”, is not an adaptation, but rather a stage realisation of the book by director Justine Campbell.

Hosking got the idea of auditioning from Canberra director Dianna Nixon, whom she’s been assisting on children’s musical productions over the last couple of years. She’d performed in the 2011 Melbourne production of “Squizzy Taylor – The Musical” and the Australian Shakespeare Company’s “Alice in Wonderland” and suspects Jigsaw looked at her CV and said “uh-oh, she’s multi-skilled”.

In this case, it’s her dance skills that come to the fore.

“I get to jump around a lot,” she says, on designer Imogen Keen’s extraordinary set that’s

been inspired by school play equipment and allows an intimate relationship between actor and audience.

Chrissie Shaw, who plays Gran, is also a musician.

“She’s fantastic and very supportive,” Hosking says. And from time to time during rehearsal breaks, “we’ve had the occasional jam”.

As for Pearl, she’s a little girl who is always being told how things must be (for instance, that poetry must rhyme) and the play makes comment on the controlling aspects of the outside world.

“It’s a confusing time for her… Gran’s illness is the hinge-point… how that affects her... how the effect ripples into the world,” says Hosking.

She is reluctant to spoil the surprise, but will say that it’s a positive ending.

“I love the feel that it’s for children, but there’s so much for an adult, too,” she says.

At the Courtyard Studio, Canberra Theatre Centre, May 19-June 2, bookings to 6275 2700 or canberratheatrecentre.com.au

Sally Murphy will read from her work at the National Library at 4pm, Saturday, May 26.

Wendy Johnson

Inner south gets its mojo back

Festival mood touches major and minor keys

Arts editor HELEN MUSA reflects on the mood of the opening days of the Canberra International Music Festival

THE first days of the 2012 Canberra International Music Festival proved a mix of major and minor keys.

In a “major” key was the gentle music of the opening concert at The National Portrait Gallery with flute, harp, voice, mandolin and percussions, rising to a crescendo with Elena Kats Chernin’s latest edition of “Beaver Blaze” (after Canberra arts patron Betty Beaver), augmented by the Wallfish Band.

In a notably “minor” key was the controversy engendered by recently-announced sackings and curriculum changes at the ANU School Of Music.

Festival director Christopher Latham may have devised a peaceful program full of titles such as “Tenderness and Grace” and “Peace on Earth”, but the tone was anything but serene.

As already reported at citynews. com.au, pianist Geoffrey Lancaster broke a concert at the Turkish Embassy on Saturday afternoon to deliver a stinging attack on the ANU for its brutal treatment of the music school, afterwards delivering a piano lament for the beleaguered institution.

At an unusual performance of western works, inspired by the Indonesian gamelan, percussionist (one of the staff about to be sacked) Gary France delivered an emotional speech describing his ideal conservatorium as a place of “magic”.

Latham himself preferred to steer clear of overt controversy, while mentioning the support of School of Music performers many times in his commentary at the gamelan concert – the implication was that if not for the school’s gifted staff, concerts like this would be impossible.

On Saturday night in the larger arena of Llewellyn Hall, MC of the Bach “Mass in B Minor” and

former School of Music staffer, Adrian Keenan, recollected a 1998 performance of the same work in the same venue, immediately before the then Chief Minister Kate Carnell announced funding cuts to the schools of art and music.

Turning to bassist player Max McBride, who had conducted the 1998 Mass, Keenan said: “But we won then, didn’t we, Max?”

As many mild-mannered music lovers were revising their picture of themselves as apolitical bystanders, the weekend also saw non-political performances such as the New Zealand String Quartet’s Beethoven performance at the Albert Hall on Sunday.

Also not directly political was the announcement by Prof Don Aitkin, chairman of the festival, that Canberra’s Pro-Musica, which administers the event, was getting behind a plan to see free music performances every day of the week during the Centenary next year, confirming the capital’s place as a “city of music”.

In keeping with Latham’s aim of branding Canberra as a music festival destination through the unique locations chosen for performances, the weekend wound up with the “Music from the Silk Road” in the hall of the National Museum, where director Andrew Sayers introduced a program covering the long journey from west to east through Italian, Turkish, Sephardi, Uyghur and Chinese music.

The 2012 Canberra International Music Festival runs until May 20. Casual bookings to 6275 2700. Visit www.cimf.org.au for program details.

There are daily news reports and critiques from the festival at citynews. com.au and look for the Canberra International Music Festival hub.

arts & entertainment

‘Warriors’ turn subtle

By Helen Musa

IT seems only yesterday that the NGA’s inaugural National Indigenous Art Triennial, “Culture Warriors”, was running. Now it’s time for the second Triennial, “unDisclosed”.

Twenty artists have been selected, and when I catch Franchesca Cubillo, senior curator of indigenous art at the NGA, fresh from hanging the exhibition, the excitement is palpable.

Cubillo has been working closely with the curator, Carly Lane, and agrees that the enigmatic title for this year’s triennial is very different from the confrontational “Culture Warriors”.

Take Fiona Foley’s painting installation, “Let 100 Flowers Bloom”. It’s beautiful, but it refers to the Aboriginal Protection and Restriction of the Sale of Opium Act (1897) in Queensland, a little-known piece of legislation that humiliated indigenous Australians by introducing a system of tight controls.

There is no doubt, Cubillo says, that with other artworks, too, you’ll say “these are beautiful and very powerful”, but soon discover that there is more to that beauty.

“The commentary is very subtle, provoking thought and engagement with the visual elements,” she says.

Apart from subtlety, there’s Tony Albert’s in-your-face work “Pay Attention Motherf…er!” It has the same title as a famous work by American artist Bruce Neumann, deliberately used by Albert to show us that you can’t presume anger is the preserve of indigenous artists alone.

Among the senior figures represented is Nyapanyapa Yunupingu from north-east Arnhem

Lindsay Harris, Noongar people, “Boya Ngorpung” (rocks with blood) 2010. Synthetic polymer paint and resin on hemp. On loan from private lender.

Land, striking for her radical departure from the dreaming narrative, with bark paintings showing contemporary scenes, such as the Sydney hotel where she stayed during an exhibition.

Canberra, too, has a representative in Danie Mellor, former winner of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Award, whose “wonderful drawings in blue-and-white” used on the invitation to the exhibition are full of references to both indigenous and Masonic culture. Mellor’s point is that indigenous and non-indigenous people have recourse to ancient rituals, so who’s the primitive Australian and who’s the sophisticated one?

Such are the questions that the Second National Indigenous Art Triennial will help unravel. “unDisclosed”, at the National Gallery of Australia, until July 22.

‘Carmen’

Celebrating joy of youth dance

“Me Right Now”

Quantum Leap At The Playhouse, season closed. Reviewed by Samara Purnell

THE Quantum Leapers in “Me Right Now” look at identity and today’s expectations in becoming a man or woman, while finding and embracing their own identity and celebrating the joy and innocence of youth.

This impressive production blends four choreographers’ work into a seamless performance.

The dancers manipulated a rope representing a timeline, a tightrope and a one-way street, in Lina Limosani’s piece. The idea was fresh, well-executed and precisely danced, but the “well-worn” choreography was disappointing and unchallenging.

The role of men in society was examined in Matt Cornell’s piece. His choreography was right on the mark, with the boys partnering each other in this polished performance, endearingly and strongly danced. Cornell’s work was a highlight of the evening, along with the girls’ featured act, by Jade Dewi Tyas-Tunggal.

The cardio-taxing finale, from Ruth Osborne, featured good group co-operation, which counterbalanced the simple choreography. It was given life by the expressiveness and emotional conviction of the dancers.

at a cracking pace

IT was great to see many kids in the capacity audience for one of the most popular operas, “Carmen” by George Bizet.

It’s a good one because it’s neither light nor grand. It’s full of familiar songs, too; I could almost hear the audience singing along.

Set in Seville, “Carmen” is a story of love won and lost, jealousy and death, smugglers and soldiers, and, of course, bullfighting.

The conductor, Greg Hocking, took much of it at quite a cracking pace, but everyone kept up. The opening scene, though, seemed a little subdued until the urchins came in, much to the delight of the mums and dads in the audience. They were locals, as were the chorus members.

But things really went upbeat after Carmen’s (Angela Hogan) entry. She was energetic and just a bit raunchy with more than a touch of mystery. Carmen’s many

music

“Carmen”

Melbourne Opera Canberra Theatre.

Reviewed by Clinton White

moods seemed almost natural to Hogan, in movement and vocal treatment.

All those in lead roles played them beautifully, but Micaela (soprano, Lee Abrahmsen) deserves special mention. Her voice was superb, with passion and clarity, especially in her long aria in Act 3.

Costumes were great, especially in the final scene, but I was disappointed in the set – it didn’t evoke a sense of, well, Spain.

After several curtain calls, Greg Hocking entreated the community to get behind the ANU School of Music campaign. That drew the most rapturous applause of all.

Taking care of ‘Business’

TECHNICAL problems involving erratic lighting, which constantly left cast members in the dark, and noisy set changes marred a triumphant opening night for Phoenix Players’ highly entertaining production of “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying”.

First-time director Richard Block has devised an imaginative, fast-moving production, enhanced with attractive costumes, clever settings, and a fine, robust orchestra augmented by pit singers and conducted by Alex O’Sullivan, to do justice to Frank Loesser’s terrific score and capture the fun and witty satire of this delightfully tuneful musical.

As the opportunistic window-cleaner, J. Pierpoint Finch, Adrian Flor gives a star performance, singing and dancing confidently, nailing every nuance and capturing every laugh on his way to becoming the president of World Wide Wickets. As his loyal fiancee/secretary, Rosemary, Vanessa De Jager, with her pretty voice and deft touch for comedy, is a delight.

Wayne Shepherd charms in a beautifully judged

musical theatre

“How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying”

Phoenix Players ANU Arts Centre until May 26. Reviewed by Bill Stephens

comedic performance as Mr Biggley, while Zack Drury is hilarious as the odious mummy’s-boy, Bud Frump. Michelle Norris, drop-dead-gorgeous as Hedy La Rue, David Cannell, appealing as Mr Twimble, and Hannah Wood as Smitty, all contribute memorable performances.

Miriam Rizvi’s imaginative, eye-catching routines, especially for the male ensemble, add greatly to the spectacle.

However, despite the technical problems, this is a production worthy of a “not-to-be-missed” recommendation.

Meet the master chef of sushi

“Jiro Dreams of Sushi” (PG)

DAVID Gelb’s study of master sushi chef Jiro Ono offers a panoply of a man with a single motivation – a personal quest for perfect sushi.

Jiro’s 10-seat restaurant in the basement of a Tokyo office block serves sushi only. His son has a mirror restaurant. But the Michelin three stars belong to Jiro’s original place alone.

Like sex, cinema can talk about food, show it on the screen, wax lyrical about its values and delights, but cannot convey it as a complete experience. Gelb understands that limitation. His film is an examination of Jiro’s profession and family, and offers wisdom, surprises, gentle humour, a peek behind the scenes at the sushi process from fish market to plate, everything the same today as yesterday and will be tomorrow until Jiro, 85 at the time of filming and still working every day, is no longer breathing. Some may wonder whether his obsession is worth its while. Jiro alone understands it and the film makes no judgement of it. Somebody wanting in February to reserve a seat for a meal that can last as little as 15 minutes can have it in March. That’s a reputation to make any restaurant critic nervous.

At Greater Union

“Dark Shadows” (M)

THE conception for this fantasy packed with fictional horribles happened when star Johnny

Dougal Macdonald cinema

Depp told director Tim Burton of his enthusiasm for the 1960s TV series.

Depp plays Barnabas, son of a wealthy New England fishing family in the late 18th century. The erotically-enthusiastic, economically-motivated Angelique (Eva Green) sets her cap at him. Barnabas prefers the less-blatant Josette (Bella Heathcote), on whom Angelique casts a spell that makes her jump off a cliff, followed by Barnabas who wakes up to discover that he’s been made into a vampire, whom Angelique persuades the townsfolk to wrap in heavy chains and bury alive.

Still with me?

Jump to 1972, when a road-building crew exhumes the coffin, releasing Barnabas who is very thirsty. His descendants (their existence an unexplained mystery since he was an unmarried only child) still occupy the decaying mansion built by his parents, but the fishing company is falling apart in competition with Angelique’s (now Angela) company across the street. Matriarch Elizabeth (Michelle Pfeiffer) has hired a governess closely resembling Josette for her orphaned grandson whom a resident psychiatrist (Helena Bonham Carter) is treating for autism. And Elizabeth’s daughter turns out to be a werewolf! This is wonderfully imaginative stuff woven

into a fabric of entertainment for its own sake, played to the nines by a fine cast and visually enhanced by great CG.

At all cinemas

“Iron Sky” (M)

FROM Finland comes this blistering satire on just about everything worth mocking, for which the most apposite collective description is human stupidity.

In 2018, on the dark side of the moon, a community of fugitive Nazis is preparing to conquer Earth and establish the Fourth Reich. Two astronauts land on the moon. Nazi guards shoot one. The other, Washington (Christopher Kirby) is African American.

Col. Adler (Gotz Otto) and Reichsfuhrer Kortzfliesch (Udo Keir) are feuding over which will rule on Earth. Adler fancies schoolteacher Renate (Julia Deitz), but after the mad scientist Richter (Tilo Pruckner) shoots Washington full of albinising serum and Renate finds merit in his new light colour, the pair set out to sabotage the proposed invasion.

Pre-Sputnik, outer-space movies and the “Star Wars” and “Treks” that followed provide a rich compost of derivative sources for “Iron Sky”.

In dissecting and exposing human stupidity at its collective zenith, it never loses sight of its satirical intentions.

At Dendy and Hoyts

Smashing plans for Glassworks!

IT’LL be a happy 5th birthday for the Canberra Glassworks on May 26-27 with a weekend exploring all things glassy. For adults there will be artist-run tours and, for children, a “Kids Only Tour”. You can help engrave the Giant Glass Birthday Card, and the public is also promised goodie bags, craft activities, “Passports to the Past” and “Lightbulb Moments”. The Glassworks are next to the Kingston Markets on Wentworth Avenue.

QUEENSLAND’S usually radical La Boite Theatre Company is touring Adam J A Cass’s play “I Love You, Bro”, which tells the true story of a boy who conspired to murder himself. Johnny, played by Leon Cain, wants to be someone and online he can be anyone he wants. At The Street Theatre until May 26, bookings to 6247 1223.

AUSTRALIAN blues guitarist Lloyd Spiegel is celebrating 21 years on the road. He’ll be at The Front Café and Gallery from 7pm on May 20. Ten per cent of all CD sales will go towards sending 100 children to school by the end of 2012.

DESIGNER/sculptor Peter Travis has, for years, been creating kites and aerial sculptures. He’ll be showing everything from folk kites

Trio Dali... at Llewellyn Hall, May 24. Photo by Keith Saunders

to contemporary works of art at the Belconnen Arts Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen, until June 10. On May 19, 20 and 27 families are invited to create large kaleidoscope kites to fly at “Wind, Air, Water –Kites at Ginninderra” on June 2. At 3pm on Sunday, May 27, you can meet the artist.

VINETA Sareika, Amandine Savary and Christian-Pierre La Marca make up the French Trio Dali, coming to Canberra for Musica Viva with Ravel, Schubert and Kerry. The trio is named not after the painter,

but for a type of Chinese marble. At Llewellyn Hall, 7pm, May 24, bookings to www.musicaviva.com. au/buy-tickets/single-tickets-mva/ canberra

A REMINDER that “Access all areas”, the 2012 PhotoAccess members’ show, ends May 20. The show includes digital images by Ed Whalan, a long-time manager of the facility, now based in Berlin. It’s at the Huw Davies Gallery, Manuka Arts Centre, next to the pool, and is open Tuesday-Friday, 10am-4pm and weekends, noon-4pm.

The new world of news

arts & entertainment / dining

Inner south gets its mojo back

I’VE peeked at the plans and there is definitely a “thing going on” with the cafe Me and Mrs Jones, under construction at the corner of Giles and Kennedy Streets, Kingston.

This dynamite fitout from the owners of Urban Pantry promises to be special, serving food and drink from breakfast till late, seven days.

A few doors down we wait with anticipation for an Asian restaurant to open on Kennedy, with yummy yum cha on the menu. At the other end of the street you’re greeted by Marven and Max Azize, who just opened Saffron Kingston (the Manuka original is still going strong).

Check out the 10-metre, red wall feature, the likes of which have never been seen in a Canberra commercial establishment. New dishes celebrating East Mediterranean tastes are being launched.

Close by, Chris Hansen, formerly of Cape Cod, is getting his hands dirty on his restaurant being built in the 4.5-star East Hotel, across from the famous Kingo. No firm opening date yet.

For a long time, the inner south, once a happening place, started to drag on the food front. But now it has its mojo back – big time, says “CityNews” dining reviewer WENDY JOHNSON

In Manuka, Public is pumping. Next door is The Vinyl Room, which has just thrown its doors open for business. This tapas and cocktail lounge serves 45 cocktails – classics and “new frontier” drinks, such as the Japanese Funk Stew. I will be going for The Naked Italian on my next visit!

Mid-range tapas is $15 (the seared rare beef with Asian marinade is a dream dish) and pizzas are $20.

On Palmerston Lane, construction is about to start on Banque, a cool new wine bar. Down the lane, where Manuka Fine Foods used to be, a new Italian-style bakery, Ricetta, is being built. Due to open in June, Ricetta will serve pastries and make pizza on a fancy-dancy oven from overseas. Across the way and upstairs in Style Arcade is the new Punjabi Hut , serving Indian cuisine for lunch and dinner.

Back on Franklin Street and hot off the grill is news that a specialist burger bar is opening where Charmers was. The shopfitters of Grill’d confirmed work is expected to be completed in six to eight weeks.

A few months ago Wild Duck , with its sexy fitout and fine Asian cuisine, opened in Kingston Foreshore. The legendary Brodburger has settled into its new home at the Glassworks, with much fanfare. It’s fun to see the original red caravan out front.

Griffith has recently seen the opening of The Gryphon pub across from the elegant, multiple award-winning Aubergine. Now open for breakfast and lunch at the shops is the too terribly sweet Café Societea, which also serves a scrumptious high tea. Service with a smile is guaranteed.

Slightly further afield, in Barton, is Malamay, an absolute must. Operated by the Chairman Group (including Chairman and Yip) this new place is sensational.

So there you have it. Inner south mojo – big time.

garden

Screen room

PVC café-style blinds can transform a pergola into a cosy outdoor room that you can use all year round. Indoor Outdoor Blinds and Awnings can provide clear PVC café blinds from $3000 based on three blinds – two at at 2m x 2.25m deep, and one at 3m x 2.25m deep. Call 6278 4137 for more information.

Toasty food

Snuggle up

THE Shirland throw in grape, one of the season’s hottest colours, will keep you snug outside. It costs $159 from Laura Ashley.

Olde English

BRING a touch of class and practicality to outdoor entertaining with the Spode-style blue melamine tray $24.95, from www. belindajanes.com.

Warm ways to enjoy the winter garden

KEEP food hot or cold for longer. This Tupperware server comprises a 2.5-litre inner bowl with a 4.3-litre outer bowl, insulating cover, seal and serving spoon. The Tupperware insulated server high costs $64.95, www.tupperware.com.au.

Flower power

During the cooler days, you can still get mileage from your outdoor entertaining area writes KATHRYN VUKOVLJAK. String the pergola with fairy lights, protect it from the elements with bistro blinds, fire up the barbie and invite everyone round!

Cosy candles

CREATE ambient light with flameless candles that will never blow out! Enjoy Lighting have battery-operated wax candles with LED globes that cast dancing shadows just like a real flame. Available from Wheel & Barrow, from $29.95 to $74.95 or visit www.enjoylighting.com.au.

THE doilie wisteria oilcloth tablecloth from Dandi is easy to clean and will bring colour to the table. From $69.95 for 230cm x 140cm size. Visit www.dandi.com.au.

Cook and warm

THIS multifunctional rustic chimenea comes with a barbeque conversion grill so it can be used for cooking as well as keeping you warm. The Chapala Flamma cast-iron chimenea costs $297 from Bunnings.

Sunday roast

TAKE Sunday lunch outside and roast on the

in two different sizes, with

and 900mm cooking surfaces, to suit different outdoor spaces. The

New Anzac Hebe goes on parade

“GARDEN”, from the French “jardin”, by definition in the dictionary is “a piece of ground for the cultivation of plants, herbs, fruit, flowers or vegetables or a rich well-cultivated tract of country”.

“Landscape” is defined as a “portion of land which the eye can comprehend in a single view, especially in its pictorial aspect”.

Gardens and landscape go hand in hand. The landscape designer could be considered the architect. The gardener is the one who implements and looks after it.

In today’s world of high-rise buildings and courtyards, gardens can be extremely small and

Cedric Bryant gardening

still fit in with the concept of being a “garden”.

In Canberra, still considered by some as the garden city concept and others as the bush capital, the answer possibly lies somewhere in between.

Due to the foresight of Walter Burley Griffin, our landscape presents us with some wonderful vistas.

One of great importance and considered the longest formal vista in the world is Anzac Parade.

From the War Memorial across the lake to Old Parliament House, this vista is indeed impressive and a favourite photo shot with tourists.

But what is the significance of Anzac Parade and the associated plantings? Few folk from Canberra, let alone visitors, would be able to answer this question. The answer is the formal raised central garden beds are planted with Hebe, representing the NZ part of Anzac. Eucalyptus bicosata or Blue Gums each side of the parade represent the Australian part of Anzac.

While the War Memorial opened in 1941, the vista and garden beds were not opened until April 25, 1965 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Anzac Gallipoli landing.

Various varieties of Hebe have been planted over the years, some with limited success. This was mainly due to factors such as poor soil, poor

Winter is on the way....

• A SUGGESTION: shred fallen leaves with the mower, placing half directly onto garden beds and half onto the compost heap.

• WHEN planting hedges dig a trench rather than individual holes. The roots will spread and develop much quicker. Water in with Maxicrop Plant Nutrient to encourage strong root growth.

drainage and inefficient irrigation systems. The last was Hebe “Autumn Glory”, which did not perform well here. Plus, it was supposed to flower at the same time as Anzac Day, however with our different climate to NZ it flowered much earlier.

The National Capital Authority decided action was needed to renovate the 28 beds in advance of the Centenary of Canberra on March 12, 2013 and more importantly for the Centenary of the Gallipoli landing in April, 2015.

A number of local horticultural professionals from Canberra and NZ chose six varieties of Hebe for trials.

As a result Hebe “Otari Delight” was selected. Aspects considered were durability for our local climate, maintenance requirements, and pest and disease resistance. It was decided to source the plants from Yarralumla Nursery, a logical decision to have them propagated in the climate in which they will grow.

Improvements to the irrigation, soil and drainage systems have now been completed and planting has commenced.

Once fully planted there will be 11,340 plants. Stage one is now complete with 10 beds north of Blamey Crescent. Stage two, of the 18 beds south of Blamey Crescent, will begin in September.

The NCA should be congratulated in doing an excellent job in this heritage-listed project. The end result will be a magnificent display of Hebe “Orati Delight” with its pink buds opening up to white, set against deep green, shiny leaves.

• CHECK out hardy, winter-flowering Camellia Sasanquas at your local garden centre. Great for hedges and honeyeaters just love the nectar.

• DID you put your potted citrus plants under cover now the frosts are coming thick and fast? Cover citrus in the ground with hessian.

• FOR an indoor winter flower display, pot up Cyclamen – now at garden centres. Plant out in the garden after flowering.

home

Jenny takes a shine to lampshades

Libby Hill reports

FORMER Canberran Jenny Coleman and her business partner Kelly Edington are making their mark with their label Seven Dandelions – creating funky lampshades, cushions and wall art.

The modern homewares label started in Noosa almost four years ago when Kelly was shopping for a new lampshade.

“We became friends through our first children, and although we had casually discussed the idea of having our own business, we didn’t have any concrete ideas,” says Jenny.

“It wasn’t until some time later when Kelly was looking for a cool lamp shade for her lounge room, and we couldn’t find any in the shops, that the concept for Seven Dandelions was born.

“We spent several months researching and teaching ourselves how to make lampshades, sourcing materials and fabrics before we actually started selling at local markets.”

The pair spent some time selling at the Sunshine Coast’s famous Eumundi markets, and are now selling primarily through their website.

They aim to provide a diverse range of fabrics, including contemporary, retro, children’s and typographic prints, with an emphasis on designs that are different.

The focus is on lampshades with co-ordinating cushions and wall art with several fabric designs which are exclusive to Seven Dandelions including Air Mail and the popular Word Bird.

“We are proud of the fact that all of our products are locally made, and we support other Australian businesses by using a number of Australian-designed and hand screen-printed fabrics from designers like Ink and Spindle and Cloth Fabric, whose fabrics are also eco-friendly,” says Jenny.

“Our cushion inserts are also Australian-made and

and teaching ourselves how to make

eco-friendly, made from recycled PET bottles. We design our timber lamp bases and have them locally crafted here on the Sunshine Coast.”

Jenny grew up in Canberra, in Weston Creek, and moved away to study writing in Wollongong, before moving to Noosa about nine years ago.

“My dad and grandmother still live in Canberra, so I try and get down to see them when I can,” she says. www.sevendandelions.com.au

Joanne Madeline Moore

your week in the stars / May 21 - 27

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

You relish your independence but don’t be a lone Ram this week! The New Moon encourages you to find fresh ways to connect with others – whether at home, at work, at play or in your local community. Short trips are also highlighted, plus expect plenty of phone calls, snail mail, texts and emails. But resist the urge to be flash with cash and careless with credit.

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)

You’ve been talking about saving for something big (like a car, holiday or home deposit) for a while and, with the New Moon firing up your finance zone, you need to put your money where your mouth is and start saving. Things speed up as the week progresses – and you don’t work well when others try to hurry you. Have the confidence to find your own steady pace.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

The New Moon is in your sign, so expect a busy and bamboozling week. It’s the perfect time to initiate a pet project, refresh your physical appearance, review your personal beliefs or reboot a rickety relationship. Lightning flashes of inspiration strike but make sure you communicate clearly, or there’ll be some crazy mix-ups and misunderstandings along the way!

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

It’s time to temporarily retreat into your Crab cave, as the New Moon cruises through your contemplation zone. Enjoy solo activities like meditation, yoga or long walks in nature. You’ll also be surrounded by innuendo and intrigue. What others say won’t necessarily be what they mean, so make sure you read between the lines to uncover what’s really going on.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

Loud-mouth Lions love talking about grandiose goals and spectacular schemes. Now’s the time to walk your talk, as you put passionate plans into productive action. Don’t just dream about it – get out there and do it! Thursday’s stars teach you plenty of patience as routine tasks proceed with complications, confusion and chaos. Polish your networking skills on Sunday.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)

Versatile Virgos are clever and capable, but are you confident enough for big time success? Don’t sell yourself short! It’s time to shine, as the New Moon lights up your career zone. But make sure you check and re-check all information that comes your way this week. Tricky Neptune aspects could scramble your antennae and lead to major mix-ups and misinformation.

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)

We all know serious Saturn is still moving slowly through your sign, and you’re sick and tired of challenges, obstacles and delays. Stop sulking and complaining Libra! Your motto for the next seven days is from birthday great John Wayne: “Quit your bellyaching and saddle up!” Plus take a long hard look at your aspirations for the future – are they ambitious enough?

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)

The New Moon stimulates your intrigue zone so no secret is safe from Scorpios, as you uncover clues and pick up on cues that others miss. Be careful what you unearth though – you may stir up issues from your own less-than-perfect past. Lust and loot loom large, as you work through issues involving intimacy or joint finances. Singles – are you confusing friendship with love?

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

It’s all about love this week, as the New Moon illuminates your partnership zone. Companionship, cooperation and compromise are the buzz words, so snuggle up close with someone special. You’re in the mood to talk so don’t hold back – reach out to loved ones and tell them how you really feel. Single Sagittarians – you’re in the mood to flirt up a storm!

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

This New Moon week is the ideal time to ditch bad habits and start afresh. It’s a juggle to get everything done but keep calm and don’t lose your Capricorn cool! You’re focused – but are you focusing on the right things? Work, health and fitness are the main areas where you need to make some long overdue changes and adjustments – the sooner the better.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Your life is set to expand in exciting ways, as the New Moon energises your entertainment sector. So clear your throat, polish your maracas, and find yourself a captive audience as you perform and party like a pro! It’s also time to nurture your close friendships. Be inspired by Ralph Waldo Emerson (born on May 25): “The only way to have a friend is to be one.”

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Family matters will be confusing, as nebulous Neptune loosens your logic and confuses communication. Just remember not to take things at face value. Avoid telling half-truths that could land you in trouble later, 100 per cent honesty is definitely the best policy. Your imagination is firing on the weekend, but don’t get carried away with ideas that have no basis in reality.

Across

4 Name large glossy black predacious birds

7 What is another term for a creed?

8 To be on the train, is to be what?

9 Name a particular type of bowling

11 What do we call one who tests ores, etc, by chemical methods?

13 Which type of soda is sodium hydroxide?

15 Which colour is bright red, inclining towards orange?

17 What is another name for a snake?

20 That which is meant for a select few is said to be what?

23 Which dome-shaped snow huts are used by Eskimos?

24 Name a less familiar term for violent storms

25 What are the transparent pieces used in spectacles? Down

1 Which satellite orbits the Earth?

2 Name the host city of the 2004 Olympic Games

3 What is another term for a prima donna?

4 What do we call large quantities of paper?

5 What are particular four-stringed musical instruments?

6 Name a person who has the care of the sick or infirm

9 What are the brothers of our parents called?

10 Name a more readily known term for xenophobes

12 Which word is applicable to living in the country?

14 Name another term for pinafores

16 What do we call a marijuana cigarette?

18 In golf, what is two under par?

19 Which structures are built by birds?

21 Name the units of electrical resistance

22 What is the ninth letter of the Greek alphabet?