Canberra CityNews October 11, 2012

election 2012 / MICHAEL MOORE reveals the real power of your vote

March brings home sexual assault message

“IT’S a fundamental human right to feel safe – people should be able to walk where they want,” says Chrystina Stanford.

While it may seem a simple message, Chrystina believes it can often be one of the most difficult to get across to the community – particularly where sexual assault is concerned.

Chrystina, an executive officer at the Canberra Rape Crisis Centre, says sexual assault is one of the most “hidden” crimes.

“Sexual assault carries a lot of shame, so it can be difficult to talk about it,” she says.

“Sometimes we don’t get people coming to us until 30 years after they have been sexually assaulted for that reason. Often, people are afraid of being blamed themselves.”

This month, women around Canberra will march through Garema Place and the Civic centre to raise awareness of sexual violence and the “right to feel safe in public places” at “Reclaim the Night” – an annual global event in its 34th year in Canberra.

“Reclaim the Night” began around 40 years ago, at the time of the “Yorkshire Ripper” murders in England, where women were told by police to stay indoors at night.

Chrystina, who is helping to organise the march, which is run by the ACT Women’s Centre for Health Matters and The ACT Women’s Services Network, says

The tragic death of Melbourne woman Jill Meagher, who was raped and murdered while walking home from a night out last month, has given Canberra’s annual “Reclaim the Night “ march new significance. LAURA EDWARDS reports

the event provides a public platform for women – and the men who support them – to take a stand against sexual violence.

“I think the reason why it’s so important for us to continue to hold this event each year is... for people to know that sexual assault is a prevalent issue in our community,” she says.

“It affects one in three girls before the age of 18 and one in six women will be assaulted in a lifetime. It’s really important that we find a way to help the community talk about it.”

The evening will include speakers, a musical performance and a barbecue.

“The mood at these events is quite an empowered one,” she says.

“It’s a collective group of people marching for a common cause, so it usually ends up at Garema Place and a light mood attached to it – it’s quite a powerful space to be in.”

The tragic death of Melbourne woman Jill Meagher, who was raped and murdered while walking home from a night out last month, has given the march new significance, Chrystina says.

Sexual assault is the most underreported crime in the community, says Chrystina, with between 10 and 20 per

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cent of assaults reported.

“Thankfully, we’ve seen rates of reporting sexual assaults have gone up because police are much better at responding these days, so people feel more confident to go to them and report what’s happened which is a great thing,” she says.

The ACT has seen a rise of sexual assaults, with 223 cases reported in 2011; up 35 from the year before, with 199, or 89 per cent, of the victims being female.

Changing attitudes and behaviours within the community about sexual assault is an important step, says Chrystina.

“Sexual assault can come with such judgement in terms of its response; it’s not like any other crime,” she says.

“The community has a really important role, if there wasn’t things said like ‘well, you’d been out drinking,’ or ‘look at what you were wearing’, I think the recovery from sexual assault would be better.”

“Reclaim the Night”, Garema Place, Civic, 6.30pm, October 26. The march will take place around Garema Place and the Civic centre. If you need help, or know someone who does, call the Canberra Rape Crisis Centre, on 6247 2525.

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the

is a prevalent issue in our community.”

Uhlmann up close

POLITICAL editor of the ABC’s “7.30” program, Chris Uhlmann, will be the guest speaker at the annual fundraising lunch for the ACT Association for Advancing Disabled Sport and Recreation at The Brassey Hotel, Friday, October 26. Funds raised will be used to help people with a disability participate in sport, work and recreational activities. Bookings to conference@brassey.net.au or call 6273 3766. Tickets are $75.

Centenary candidates

ANYONE interested in becoming a volunteer for the Centenary of Canberra celebrations between January and May next year is invited to attend an information session during October at Woden Library, Corinna Street, Phillip, 10am-noon, on October 17, and at Tuggeranong Library, Cowlishaw Street, Tuggeranong, 2pm4pm; Civic Library, Civic Square, London Circuit, 10am-noon, October 18; Belconnen Library, 12 Chandler Street, 10am-noon, October 19 and Gungahlin Library, corner of Hibberson and Gozzard Streets, 10am-noon, October 24.

More information from julie.sunley@act.gov. au or call 6207 6782.

‘Mind-piquing’ trivia

PARKINSON’S ACT is holding what it promises to be a “mind-piquing” trivia night at the Hellenic Club, Woden, 7pm, on Thursday, October 25. Tickets are $10 each (max 10 per table). All proceeds go to providing services for people living with Parkinson’s, their families and carers. Register a team at parkinsonsact@ gmail.com or call Whil Prendergast on 0402 292491.

news Spry Neville

Libby Hill reports

AT 73 years old, a 50km bike ride is like a walk in the park for Neville Botham.

The Melba resident, who has been riding for more than 50 years, rides about 70 km in a training session. He’s currently training for the Fitz Challenge, where he’ll ride 50km and raise money for children with cancer.

The Fitz Challenge is regarded as one of Canberra’s biggest and long-distance one-day participation cycling events and includes some of the toughest climbs in the Canberra region.

The super fit can take on the 255km Fitz’s Extreme, a long, gruelling hill grinding odyssey with a 13.5 hour time limit.

There was once a time Neville would have been up for the Fitz’s Extreme, but this month he’s sticking to the less-gruelling Tidbinbilla Challenge.

“The first very long ride I did was when living in NZ. In 1990, I rode around Mt Egmont, a distance of 180km,” he says.

“Moving to Australia in 1993, I was challenged by the son of a riding partner. He said I was too old to complete the 150km in the Fitz’s Challenge, within the time of 8 hours 30 minutes, but I am happy to say I completed it in 8 hours 4 minutes.”

Neville is on a mission to raise money for The Kids’ Cancer Project when he rides on Sunday, October 28.

The Kids’ Cancer Project is an national organisation that funds research into pediatric cancer worldwide to find cures for childhood cancer.

CEO of The Kids’ Cancer Project, Peter Neilson, says the organisation has raised more than $15 million for

Field Day gets a flourish of pastels

THE Pastel Painters of Murrumbateman will present original artworks for exhibition and sale at the Murrumbateman Field Days on October 20-21.

The theme for the works is that of the Field Days – local community sharing the rural lifestyle.

The group meets weekly under the tutelage of Amanda McLean, one of Australia’s leading pastel painters. Members come from Canberra, Yass, Murrumbateman and surrounding areas.

The exhibition will be in the Men’s Shed. It is the second year the group has exhibited.

dose of dorin

gets nifty for sick kids

childhood cancer research during the past 18 years.

“Ultimately, finding a cure is about saving children’s lives and ending the heartbreak childhood cancer brings to so many families round the world. It is proven that this research into childhood cancer saves lives”, he says.

“But despite enormous research gains, each week three children still die from childhood cancer

in Australia. In just 50 years, medical research has increased survival rates from 2 per cent to 80 per cent.

The Kids’ Cancer Project aims to increase survival rates to 100 per cent.”

More information at www.thekidscancerproject.org.

au To donate to Neville’s fundraising efforts go to everydayhero.com.au/neville_botham_1

Rookie Alex reaches for the stars

wanted to stay in Canberra, so when I was approached by the Capitals, I couldn’t be happier,” she said.

AT six foot five (196 cms), basketballer Alex Bunton is used to being noticed, whether it’s in a crowd or on the court.

“When I first started playing basketball four years ago, I knew I was the tallest on the court, and I thought that meant people would be more likely to notice if I stuffed up,” she says.

But it’s clear Alex was eventually noticed for all the right reasons.

After graduating from the Australian Institute of Sport in January, she was offered a spot by the Canberra Capitals to play in the Women’s National Basketball League.

The 18-year-old will make her debut this month with the seven-time WNBL champions in the 2012/13 season, and will play alongside one of her idols, Lauren Jackson.

“I heard about Lauren when I first started playing basketball and her name was up in the stars, she’s a good idol for me and what she’s done is quite incredible in itself,” she says.

“This team has a lot of history and to be coached by Carrie Graf, who also coaches the Australian team, is a great honour.”

Although she was approached by other teams, Alex says she was keen to stay in Canberra; the city that has been her home for the past six years since moving here with her family.

“In the back of my mind, I knew I really

Since her foray into basketball four years ago, Alex has quickly become hot property on the court, something she puts down to her “quick hands”.

Her career highlights so far include representing the ACT at the Australian under-16 championships and representing Australia at the under-17 World Championships in 2010.

She was offered a scholarship with the Australian Institute of Sport in 2009.

Alex says one of the best things about basketball is the “atmosphere”.

“The whole team environment gives me a thrill; it’s a game which gives you a special feeling when you start playing,” she says.

Though not a superstitious player, Alex says she’s learnt to “block everything out” when on the court.

“To zone out and just focus on the game can be quite difficult, but it does come with maturity,” she says.

In between her daily training schedule, Alex studies sports coaching and exercise science at the University of Canberra. She graduated from Lake Ginninderra College last year.

“I think it’s important to have education behind you, because basketball doesn’t last forever,” she says.

Her long-term goal is to play for Australia at the next Olympics in Rio.

The Canberra Capitals will host the Bulleen Boomers at the AIS arena on October 20.

Hot African fashion show

THE African Diplomatic Women’s Group is supporting the Cancer Council’s Pink Ribbon national fundraising initiative with a fashion show at the Botswana High Commission Chancery, Denison Street , Deakin, at 4pm, on Wednesday, October 17. It will feature everyday, wedding and special-occasion dress and fashion from the African continent. Tickets, at $35, from mkedisi@hotmail.com or call 0434 552101.

Thinking small

CANBERRA Bonsai Society Show will be held at Daramalan College, Dickson, 10am5pm. on Saturday, October 13 and 9am-4pm, on Sunday, October 14. Demonstrations at 11am and 2pm each day with more than 60 bonsai on display. Admission $5, plus concessions.

Cranleigh art

“CITYNEWS” 2011 Artist of the Year, Michael le Grand, is the featured guest artist for the

fundraising Cranleigh Capital Chemist Art Show, the largest in Canberra, with more than 150 artists exhibiting 700 pieces of art, ranging from designer jewellery and textiles to ceramics, photography, sculpture and the more traditional forms of art. Cranleigh is a registered charity and a school for children with disabilities. The show will be held at the school’s Starke Street, Holt, campus over the weekend of October 19-21. More information at cranleighcapitalchemistartshow.org

Trivia night

EVERYONE (over 18) is welcome to a P&C trivia night at Narrabundah College at 7pm, October 17. Food and drinks for sale, $15 each. Tables of 8-10 can be booked. Contact jhughes@redcross.org.au

Cats on parade

THE annual All Breeds Championship Cat Show will be held at the Belconnen Community Centre, Swanson Court, Belconnen, 10am-4pm, on Saturday, October 27. Entry fee is $5 single,$10 family.

Keeping baby eco-friendly

Libby Hill reports

ORGANIC baby clothing has never been more popular and one of the most successful brands is Gaia by former Canberran Annette Francis.

Sold in more than 100 stores, including David Jones, Gaia clothes are a popular choice among environmentally aware mums including model Miranda Kerr, who chose Gaia onesies for her son Flynn.

“I grew up in Canberra – my fashion experience started with a textiles major at Canberra Girls’ Grammar,” says Annette, who created the business 10 years ago.

“Gaia Organic Cotton is now a leading organic cotton babywear brand – and, in fact, the first organic cotton babywear brand in Australia.”

Annette’s aim is to design garments that delight in form, touch and style. “Choosing organic cotton is important. Globally, you will be helping support a sustainable industry, which in turn helps

ensure baby will grow up in a safer, cleaner, happier environment,” she says.

Annette is returning to Canberra with Gaia for a two-day

only sale at St John’s Anglican Church, Reid on October 19-20.

More information at gaiaorganiccotton.com.au

election 2012

Michael Moore

The real power of your vote

Tough call: two leaders, one prize

Laura Edwards reports

Leadership will be a critical choice when Canberra votes on October 20. Vying for supremacy is a Chief Minister facing her first election as the Labor leader and an Opposition Leader, leading the LEADING your party through an election campaign for the first time is “not small work”, says Chief Minister Katy Gallagher.

the community, that’s who we’re appealing to, particularly the outer suburbs, they feel those cost-of-living pressures perhaps more than other areas.”

Seselja says he has felt comfortable in the role of leader since his appointment in 2007.

“I think there’s some good signs about our chances, but I know the only way we get there is if we work very hard in the same way we have for the last four years,” he says.

“There’s a lot more pressure on the leader of

“I think my leadership style has always been to lead, everything’s not necessarily put to a

“While I certainly think there is a mood there, that’s not enough. You have to show people that you’re ready.”

election

Sorry, but it’s not all about Katy and Zed

The legitimate role of leaders in our elections has been distorted, says MICHAEL MOORE

AS Katy Gallagher and Zed Seselja lead the major parties into the election, the temptation is to create the impression that the election is about them and their leadership.

This is par for the course in Australian elections.

The vote for Chief Minister is conducted on the floor of the ACT Assembly – not in the ballot box. The reality is that one of the major parties could win more seats than the other and still not be able to claim government.

The leadership battles are appropriate in that other small election being contested between Barack Obama and Mitt Romney. The US one is a genuine presidential election. Ours is not! Our elections are parliamentary. They are based on the Westminster system of government that elects members to a parliament and then allows the parliament to choose its leader as the “first amongst equals”. It also allows the parliament to remove the leader by a simple majority vote.

It is appropriate for Gallagher and Seselja to provide leadership. However, two thirds of the people of Canberra are not in a position to provide them with a personal vote. To do so, a voter has to be in their electorate. At the last election, many people believed they were voting for Jon Stanhope as leader of the Labor Party. He decided to stand down and the parliament elected Gallagher as his replacement. The transition was done without much fuss.

Similarly, when Seselja became leader of the Opposition, it was a simple matter of a majority of the party voting in favour of him. The same majority can remove him. Indeed, if the Liberals do not win this election there is a high possibility of a challenge being launched on his leadership.

It is not surprising that Kevin Rudd and elements of the media were outraged when he was toppled as Prime Minister. They all believed their own rhetoric. “Kevin ’07” was the campaign. He believed it was all about him and it was much easier for the national media to focus on a couple of leaders than trying to explain our representative style of government.

Just as Kevin Rudd was the leader when the election victory was achieved, and so deserved considerable credit, Zed and Katy deserve credit for their role in the leadership of their parties. But it does not guarantee leadership of the government for either of them or even if one or other of the major parties wins government.

The minor parties can certainly put a spoke in the wheel following the election.

A plausible outcome for the imminent ACT election is for the Liberals to win seven seats, Chic Henry to win a seat for the Australian Motorist Party while Labor secures six seats and the Greens three. The most likely outcome for the vote of the Chief Minister would be in favour of Labor.

However, it is possible that there could be another spanner in the works. Although this is much more hypothetical, it does explain the system. As the vote is conducted on the floor of the Assembly it is also possible that the Greens could refuse to vote for Gallagher as Chief Minister. For example, if she had crossed them in the campaign, they could insist that they would only support a vote for the current Deputy Chief Minister, Andrew Barr.

The leaders play a role in illustrating to the people the approach that will be taken by their government if they win power.

There is a further role, in that the parties largely commit to begin the government with the current leader as the preferred Chief Minister. This is an important aspect of the campaign. However, as voters go to the ballot box their choices are much broader and there is much more to consider.

Even those voting for the leaders will need to choose carefully where their preferences will go. In past elections, it has been common for the leaders to win more than a quota and have a proportion of their votes passed on to other candidates. It is just an over simplification to treat Australian elections as presidential and we should be able to do better.

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

One last time: why

Here “CityNews” concludes its series of highlighting candidates for the October 20 election and asks two questions: Why politics? Why should we vote for you? They throw up interesting answers.

BRINDABELLA

Why politics?

Ever since my efforts campaigning against the school closures plan of 2004, I have had a passion for local politics. I was convinced through this process that a lot of government decisions were made based on vested interest, not in the interest of the community. I want to be in politics to give a voice to the voiceless and stand up for people.

Why should we vote for you?

People should vote for me not only because I will advocate and fight for my community and the environment, but also because I am part of a team that has a proven track record in advocating for the community. I would be delighted to join the ACT Greens team to make Canberra healthier, more liveable and better connected.

Why politics?

With 25 years of management experience in the public and private sectors, here and overseas, I believe I have something of value to give back to my community. Why should we vote for you?

Education is the foundation upon which so much else is built. Labor is the party of education and Katy Gallagher has rightly made education – equality of opportunity for every child, and the education sector’s importance to our future economy – central to this election campaign. It is also the party of social justice, and if elected I would help take Labor’s great policy record on aged care, disability, disadvantage and housing to the next level.

Why politics?

My brother, a lecturer, was shot during the shootings at Monash University 10 years ago. Luckily, he survived, and John Howard’s strengthening of gun laws at that time prompted me to think about the role of government, and when it is absolutely appropriate to intervene for the good

of the nation. That was the genesis of my more active interest in politics, and my decision to move to the not-for-profit sector, to give back and make Canberra a better place. Why should we vote for you?

I have a strong sense of social justice and much of my professional and voluntary work and committee appointments have focused on disadvantaged groups and social inclusion. I believe that you should reap rewards for hard work and industry. It is also imperative to ensure our most disadvantaged citizens receive the assistance they need, and that we can do this without making the ACT a nanny state.

Why politics?

Politics is about being able to do and influence things that directly impact people’s lives for the better. I know that it is sometimes the small things that can have the greatest impact and provide the greatest opportunities for people. By working in government, I want to get the small things right and make our Canberra community even stronger.

Why should we vote for you?

We are seeing a change in the way Canberrans are thinking about their lifestyle. With my experience as an engineer, project manager and public servant, I have the skills to deliver the outcomes that people want and bring generational change to the ACT Government.

Why politics?

Politics is an opportunity to make a real difference. The cost of living in Canberra is increasing yet we seem to receive less in return. Many of the people I see are tired of seeing government waste their money through poor management and service delivery. Why should we vote for you?

I believe that hard work should be rewarded not punished, first-home buyers deserve choice and local business needs support to do what they do best. Government should approach capital spending with the same care and caution as households do with the family budget. Tuggeranong is my home and the Canberra Liberals have the plan that will deliver local services that have been overlooked for too long such as a new pool for Lanyon, an urgent care clinic and green bins for all homes.

should we vote for you?

MOLONGLO

Tim Bohm, Bullet Train for ACT

Why politics?

We started a Facebook page for a Bullet Train because we had listened to politicians talk about it for years and years with no action. The initial support was overwhelming, so we formed a political party dedicated to getting high-speed rail for Canberra and Australia.

Why should we vote for you?

We are not asking people to vote for us, we are asking them to vote for a Bullet Train and the huge benefits high-speed rail will bring to individuals, families, our community, our environment and the local economy. Not to mention the thousands of jobs it will create. We see this election as an unofficial referendum on whether the community wants a Bullet Train. If Canberrans want a Bullet Train, now they can vote for one.

Why politics?

I believe everyone, no matter what their background, should have the opportunity to reach their potential, prosper and make a meaningful contribution to society. I love Canberra and the opportunities it can provide us all, and I would be honoured to play a part in shaping a future we all have a stake in.

Why should we vote for you?

Our shared future is important. I want to help to make sure it is a future where everyone can access affordable childcare, be healthy, get an excellent education and find a local job that helps to build our city. It is exciting to be part of an ACT Labor team investing more in our schools, our hospitals and our city. And I would be especially proud to represent my local neighbourhood, Gungahlin.

Why politics? Concern for

the welfare of my children and grandchildren has propelled me into politics. Canberra’s future and the welfare of my family are far too important

to be left to the current government. Fortunately, I am privileged to have the skills and experience to make a positive, constructive difference and the ACT Legislative Assembly seems like a great place to start. Why should we vote for you?

What I can bring to the team is proven experience in leadership, project management, policy development, administration and diplomacy. And, of course, I am fortunate to have this work experience tempered by the social realities that come from being a husband, father and grandfather.

Why politics?

I wanted to get involved in what was happening in my community.

Why should we vote for you?

The Greens have shown Canberra they are responsible, positive and constructive in the balance of power. Every issue is dealt with on its merits, rather than its potential for political gain. I’d pursue better infrastructure and design in new suburbs, improved municipal services, reduced light pollution and energy waste, and make sure light rail is built, as promised.

Why politics?

I have always believed in the core ACT Labor values of maintaining a strong economy to support local jobs, quality schools, hospitals and community services. Also, I fear what the Liberals will do to Canberra; just look at their multi-billion dollar cuts to jobs, health and education in Victoria, NSW and Queensland. Cuts like these would gut our city.

Why should we vote for you?

I am a local guy, active in my community and focused on local issues that matter to all of us –like roads, rates and rubbish, our hospitals and our schools. I want to listen and learn, I want to help, and I want to serve the ACT to the best of my ability by being an active, hardworking and energetic voice for the community.

Why politics?

Canberrans deserve to live in a society where we all take responsibility for our health, environment and future; where our leaders provide appropriate support for the most vulnerable members of our society so we all have the same opportunities. I am committed to bringing these values into the Assembly. Why should we vote for you?

I want to raise a family in Canberra and I know that cost of living and accessible and affordable childcare matter. I am committed to working with the Canberra Liberals to ensure Canberra has the best local government in Australia; to ensure that I do my part to make Canberra a great place to live, work and play.

Why politics?

A co-owner and manager of a successful ICT services company, I’m a great advocate of local small business and our private sector. But I know that business is at its best when it gives something back to the community that sustains it. That’s why I’m also deeply involved in attempts to get the “Common Ground” model of combating homelessness up and running in Canberra. Why should we vote for you?

I’m a member of Civil Liberties Australia, the Australian Republican Movement, and the Health Care Consumers Association. In short, I know that the ACT Labor Government and Katy Gallagher and local business are a good fit – but business with a social conscience. ACT Labor has a vision for jobs and industry, and it is the only party contesting this campaign that has that vision.

Mick’s still making moves on Bella

Affairs of the political heart often see us doing crazy things, says MARK PARTON

HERE’S a love story from the Tuggeranong Valley. It’s about Mick, who was in a relationship with Bella for four years, but she kicked him out four years ago.

He was devastated, didn’t see it coming. She’d fallen out of love with him. After moping around, Mick decided to try and win back Bella’s heart, so he’s been seriously courting her over recent months and, in a couple of weeks, he will get down on one knee offering commitment.

It’s a courageous thing for Mick, but these affairs of the heart often see us doing crazy things.

Will Bella say “yes”? We’ll all know on the night, because, you see, the Mick in question is Mick Gentleman and Bella is the electorate of Brindabella.

Mick was a Labor member for Brindabella between 2004 and 2008 and sat on the backbench in the Stanhope majority government. He was a “touchy-feely” local politician, whose opponents argue was not very effective. His supporters speak of an MLA who spent a lot of time dealing with the concerns of constituents. Among his achievements was the passing of the solar feed-in tariff legislation.

In 2008, despite increasing his primary vote from four years earlier, he was out-preferenced by Joy Burch, whose electoral victory was one of the great surprises of the last ACT poll.

He’s having another go on October 20.

Mick has suggested to me that his relationship with Brindabella has gone on much longer than his four-year term, rattling off a long list of community activities that he’s been involved in before and since his stint in the Assembly.

Right now, he’s campaigning like a madman. He wants to “finish what he started”.

Brindabella will be important to all three parties. If the Liberals are to win government, they must win three of the five seats. That’s never been done before. It would require a Liberal primary vote of between 45 and 50 per cent.

Opposition Leader Zed Seselja and his deputy Brendan Smyth are almost certain of re-election, but the question is will they get enough first-preference votes to drag Val Jeffery over the line, probably at the expense of the Greens’ Amanda Bresnan?

ACT Labor is hoping that the inclusion of Gentleman can stem the flow of votes to the right, although retiring Labor MLA John Hargreaves has put his support behind energetic first-time candidate Karl Maftoum, whose impressive list of achievements includes that he is the keyboard player in John’s rock band! And as far as the relationship of Bella and Mick….don’t they say that going back to your ex is like reading the same book over again? You already know how it ends.

Mark Parton is the breakfast announcer on 2CC.

election 2012 / the candidates

The real power of your vote

UNDER the Hare-Clark electoral system it is possible for the electorate to maintain a Labor government and dismiss all of the incumbent ministers.

It is possible to punish one minister. Similarly, the whole of the current Liberals or Greens could be removed and replaced.

Before the election in 2008, I made some suggestions on how people might vote strategically using this electoral system and with an election imminent, it is worth reiterating some of those ideas.

Hare-Clark is a powerful electoral system in the hands of even a goodly proportion of tactical voters.

The more voters understand the possibilities and use the system, the more accountable our elected representatives become. Here are 10 hints to assist strategic voting in the ACT election.

1. NUMBERING: this is the same as for any election! Number your votes against those individuals you most want elected!

2. THOSE YOU DON’T WANT ELECTED: do not put any number against someone that you do not want to be elected. If there is no mark next to someone who you do not want in the Assembly, your vote cannot possibly provide assistance to them.

3. PARTY COLUMNS: do not be contained by party columns. In the ACT, it is important to have a good government, a strong opposition and an effective crossbench. Therefore, do not be lulled into the sense that you must remain within party columns. Work right across the ballot paper

The ACT electoral system puts real power in the hands of voters, says MICHAEL MOORE

to put your numbers in order of preference for the best people.

4. PARTY VOTERS: if you really want to support a particular party, but cannot stand individual incumbents, place a vote against the members of that party who are not already in the Assembly. Leave one or more of the current MLAs out. Every time a number is put against a hopeless candidate, it improves their chances in the election. Use your vote to punish laziness or bleak prospects.

5. PUNISHING MINISTERS: if you want to punish the Labor Government but do not want a Liberal outcome, punish the incumbents by leaving the boxes next to them as blanks. Look for alternatives. A clear message is sent to future governments when a poorly performing minister loses a seat.

6. PUNISHING MLAs: the same can be applied to all incumbent MLAs. Other than the leaders, all MLAs understand that they are vulnerable. You can keep it that way by not even giving poor performers a preference.

7. DECIDING HOW MANY PREFERENCES: the ballot paper will recommend a minimum number of preferences – at least seven in Molonglo and at least five in Brindabella and Ginninderra. Although a voter who puts only three preferences will have those preferences recognised, the fewer the

preferences the higher the risk of the vote being wasted.

8. MAJOR PARTIES: do not believe the advertising and the media that the election is about only the major parties. Therefore, vote across the ballot paper and do not hesitate to leave the major parties last. Minor parties and independents have played a significant role throughout most of the existence of the ACT Assembly.

9. THE LEADERS: the election is not about party leaders. Chances are two to one against the leaders being in your electorate anyway. Under the Westminster system of government they are simply the “first amongst equals”. If the leaders have not delivered in your opinion – do not put a mark next to their name.

10. A PLAGUE ON ALL YOUR HOUSES: if you really cannot find anyone on the ballot paper that you could possibly support, it is not illegal to place a blank ballot paper in the box. Contrary to popular opinion, we do not have compulsory voting – that cannot be enforced in a secret ballot system. We do have compulsory attendance.

The ACT electoral system places real power in the hands of the voters. Use your ability to flex your electoral muscle on October 20.

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

Why politics?

In 2010, I ran in the federal election for the seat of Fraser to end the waste and mismanagement of the Gillard Government. In the ACT I have seen this Labor Government time and again failing to listen and treating Canberrans with contempt. That is why I am running, to stand up for you. Why should we vote for you?

I have raised my family in Canberra and started my business here, and I understand the challenges facing Canberrans, such as buying a house, accessing quality health care, educating our children and building a local business.

Why politics?

I am in politics because of what happened to my wife. In 2011, she fell extremely ill and we attended the emergency department around 7pm and were not seen until around 3am. It was one of the worst days we have endured, waiting as so many Canberrans have, to receive care when there were no other options. I am in politics to deliver better services to the ratepayer.

Why should we vote for you? You should vote for me because I will work to deliver those basic local services you deserve; healthcare, education, transport, roads and urban services. I understand the impact rate increases are having on many Canberrans – especially retirees – and I will argue against this unfair taxation.

election 2012 / the candidates

GINNINDERRA

Why politics?

I’M standing as an independent candidate in Ginninderra partly in despair at the spin and point-scoring that characterise local politics. The positive reason for standing is my conviction that ACT politics can change for the better provided we change how policies are developed and tested before implementation.

Why should we vote for you?

I’VE spent my 30-year working life in policy analysis and

development and I know the value of good policy-making processes in achieving better outcomes for the community. As a true independent, I’ll work in the Assembly to make sure policy options are rigorously assessed, impacts are transparent and community groups are involved at the earliest opportunity. I’ll back my judgment that this is the way to smarter government by donating half my pay packet to ACT charities.

Why politics?

I got into politics because I have a keen sense of justice. I’m not prepared to be a bystander as the world becomes less equal and more polluted. Why should we vote for you?

People should vote for me and the ACT Greens team if they want representatives who stand up for Canberra – for its egalitarian ideals and social justice outlook; for evidence-based policy and those public servants whose job it is to provide it; for keeping the bush capital feel and protecting our natural environment; and for its idiosyncratic cultural activities.

Why politics?

Our democracy is part of our living, breathing culture in Australia. I wanted to get involved and play a part in holding our political leaders to account and delivering the outcomes we want for our communities. Why should we vote for you?

I am passionate about finding ways to transform our way of living on to a path that is more sustainable and more community focused. I believe that everyone in Canberra – community groups, business and government – has a role to play and as an MLA I would dedicate my time to working across the community to facilitate and empower people to undertake their own sustainability journey.

Why politics?

I strongly believe that being involved in politics enables you to do what you would like to see done in the community. Being in public office, you can contribute more and play a bigger role for the wellbeing of the society. This country has offered me a lot and it is time for

me to give something back to the community. Why should we vote for you?

I have a very good understanding of the local issues and the community requirements. As a parent with two young children, I understand the pressures parents face to raise their family. Parts of Canberra have long been neglected and overlooked. We have a long-term vision for our Territory.

Why politics?

Being involved in my community is important to me, and I see politics as an extension of my many community activities. I am against the “nanny state”, because I have observed government intervention causing unintended consequences. Why should we vote for you?

If elected, I would put to good use my broad experience as a Federal public servant to keep the ACT Public Service managers accountable. Furthermore, I want to see improved client service standards from ACT Government agencies because, based on my community involvement, I know how poor the Government culture has been.

74 aim for the Assembly

SEVENTY four candidates have nominated for the 17 positions being contested at the October 20 ACT Legislative Assembly election. This is 12 fewer candidates than in 2008.

The 2012 election is the sixth to be conducted under the Hare Clark proportional representation system which was chosen by ACT electors at a referendum in 1992.

mum in the city briefly

Stories we hate to hear

SONYA FLADUN is already an embarrassment to her children. When they reach their teen years they will probably suffer from severe parental blooper paranoia. She did!

I REMEMBER dreading my mum running into my friends and their parents and telling this or that story that would have me squirming like a worm on a hook.

One favourite anecdote was the time when Sonya, aged six, followed her army officer dad into the gents’ toilets at Puckapunyal and sent a whole platoon of blokes fleeing for their lives.

Then there were the stories about how, from age two to five, I waged a determined anti-underpants wearing campaign; how heartbroken over the death of a goldfish at age five, I exhumed it from its tiny grave and kept it in a matchbox under my bed; how I once buried an overdue library book in the back garden for fear if it were found I’d be arrested for not returning it on time; and the curious fact that I have never been able to pronounce the name of the national flower of Scotland.

Perhaps worst of all, was the story about how my babysitter fried up the dog’s meat from the fridge for my dinner. When my mum innocently related this rather grim tale to the mother of a school friend, the story spread like wildfire with the result that my whole class barked at me for days – my every utterance greeted with “woof, woof!”

To parents, these are war stories to

swap around; grist in the mill of parenthood. However, we can easily forget how – under the gaze of peers – these can take on a humiliating bent for our children. And what I had also forgotten was that parents, even when they aren’t telling tales about their offspring’s exploits, are often just plain embarrassing to kids who want to assert their independent, “cool” identities.

I had hoped I would have a few more years grace as my oldest is only nine and my youngest six. But no, of late, my nineyear-old has been casting me those looks that say, “don’t you dare say or do that”. At a kids’ movie recently he gave me a few warning nudges before furiously whispering: “Mum, you’re not supposed to laugh at that. You’re embarrassing me. Don’t laugh so loud.”

Of course, I have my own compendium of child-rearing incidents that made me wish I could crawl under the floorboards. Perhaps the best one is the time my boy, aged three, hid a poo in a kitchen cupboard where it sat, maturing for a few days before it was discovered during a dinner with my in-laws.

I do sympathise with my kids’ occasional embarrassment and promise to try to keep myself in check. But it may be best if they don’t read this column!

Kids’ clothes swap

THE Canberra and Region Multiple Birth Association is holding a children’s clothing swap at the Fun Factory, Nyrang Street, Fyshwick, 9am-noon on November 4. Clean unwanted children’s clothing can be donated at the Fun Factory until November 2. Donors will be given a credit for their donation to exchange at the swap. Clothing is also available for purchase. Due to sorting and quality checking, clothes to swap cannot be accepted on the day. More information at carmba.org.au/childrens-clothing-swap.html

A memorial night

THE inaugural Cross Your Heart cocktail evening, to raise funds for the Heart Foundation ACT and the White Cloud Foundation, will be held at the Western Courtyard Gallery of the Australian War Memorial, 6pm-11pm, on Saturday, December 1. Supported by Rolfe Renault Canberra, guests will enjoy a summer’s night under the stars with entertainment, inspirational stories and personal tours of the memorial with Australian Victoria Cross recipient Corporal Ben Roberts-Smith VC MG; Keith Payne VC and Michael Pratt GC. For sponsorship or bookings call 6269 2637 or email act@ heartfoundation.org.au

Calling all MAMAs

MusicACT is into phase one of the MAMAs (MusicACT Annual Music Awards) and the nomination process for competitors closes on October 15. Hopefuls should visit musicact.com.au/mamas

Hip, cool and it’s called Civic

CANBERRA is a cool place to live – we know that –and now we’ve got the report to prove it.

The recent “Urbis Hip List” compiled from census data has categorised the hippest suburbs in the country. Canberra has scored two (Braddon and Civic) out of the 21 listed suburbs.

According to Urbis, what makes a suburb “hip” is the type of person who lives there.

The hip are young, educated, single or in defacto relationships, live in higher density housing, and prefer the bus or footpath to a car. They are the trendsetters – eager to try the new, with an expendable income to indulge in the finer and funkier things in life.

Sydney and Melbourne seem shocked to learn that Canberra has any sort of hip underground at all. However, this is not a surprise to anyone who has recently sought a caffeine hit worthy of the most groovy Melbourne laneway, sipped cocktails after work, or indulged in a gastronomic journey.

Civic has long been the cen-

letters

Catherine Carter property

tre of nightclub activity, but it is the exciting redevelopment of the city and Braddon over the last decade, and a range of new eating spots, shops, and bars that has really ramped up the city’s “hipness”.

While Sydney still struggles to achieve an after-hours heartbeat in its CBD, Canberra has long enjoyed a city centre that continues to pulse well after 6pm.

Canberra, as ever, is about opportunity based on good planning. Revitalisation by developers of urban and local centres will continue to regenerate our communities. And while it’s cool to be hip, our enviable suburb-meetscity lifestyle remains special. When the hipsters decide to settle down and grow old, we’re sure they can find a place in Canberra for that, too. The full list of Australia’s hippest suburbs is at www. urbis.com.au.

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

Call for political courage

THE relocation of the Medicare office from the city centre to a site among other utilities in Braddon shows a complete lack of concern for the average resident, especially the aged and the disabled. This retrograde action could be remedied immediately if local politicians took action. Which local politician will have the courage to be the first to take action?

Harold Grant, Campbell

Patricia’s cardinal sin

IT appears that apparently staunch or one-eyed greenie, Patricia Saunders, has made the cardinal sin of making rather personal comments about someone she doesn’t actually know (letters, CN September 27).

As Shane Rattenbury is actually aware from previous contacts with me, my Green credentials are probably as good, if not better, than many Green candidates and may be even better than Saunders. For example, I helped in the drafting of the Commonwealth Environment Protection (Impact of Proposals) Act and the National Heritage Act, I was a Commonwealth delegate to the National Conservation Strategy, and I helped provide briefing and advice to my Ministers (Senator Collins, Gareth Evans, Simon Crean and John Anderson) on environmental issues going back to the Fraser Island sand-mining days.

So, yes, I do think I have “contrib -

uted much” to the Green cause and would be interested in knowing about Saunders’ contribution. Furthermore, I am a buddy of the last Secretary of the Commonwealth Environment Department with whom I have regular discourse on environmental issues. Hardly the background for one with “extreme views”. With this background I was a strong Green supporter and on friendly terms with ex-MLA Kerrie Tucker and a supporter of her Senate campaign. However, both the Federal and State parties have lost their way over recent years. Saunders should understand that I make a point of only writing about issues I actually know something about.

I trust Saunders does not make the same mistake and I leave it to your readers to make their own judgement on the various merits of our position.

Ric Hingee, Duffy

Jamison Anytime Fitness / advertising feature

‘We’re offering seniors’ membership and basic circuit classes specially designed for those 50-plus’

Belconnen gets new, round-the-clock gym

WITH the huge success of its seven clubs across the Canberra region and more than 1700 around the world, a new branch of 24-hour gym Anytime Fitness is coming to Jamison.

“There has been high demand for a club in Belconnen, and we’re looking forward to providing more fitness options to that community,” says club manager Alex Gynes.

“This club will be a little different, as we’re

“We have some different equipment in this gym – we’re using Precor equipment, which gives members a more interactive experience,” says Alex Gynes.

offering seniors’ membership and basic circuit classes specially designed for those in the 50-plus age bracket.

“We’re the first club to trial this concept in Canberra.”

Anytime Fitness Jamison also offers a huge variety of top-quality cardio, strength and free weights equipment, Alex says.

“We have some different equipment in this gym – we’re using Precor equipment, which gives members a more interactive experience,” he says.

“Equipment such as the AMT, offers a more innovative design, and the media and TV are more integrated.”

The gym, which is opening in the old Jacaranda Building opposite the Jamison Centre, will be open 24 hours a day, providing a secure training environment for those who can’t or would rather not attend a gym during usual opening hours.

“Anytime Fitness is perfect for anyone with a busy schedule,” says Alex. “People with young families, shift workers or those who work long hours can go to the gym at whatever time suits them, and the convenience of that has really been one of the keys to our success.

“Once you join, you can go to any of the gyms in the world – there are more than 1700 worldwide.

“And it means there’s always a gym near you, whether you’re at work, at home or on the go. There’s no excuse not to fit your workout in!”

Anytime Fitness Jamison will have staff available from Monday to Thursday from 10.30am-7pm, Fridays from 1pm-7pm and Saturdays from 9am-midday.

“Members’ security is very important to us,” says Alex. “So as well as state-of-the-art, 24-hour video surveillance of the premises, members can also access a “panic button” necklace upon arrival, which they can press if they’re injured or concerned about their safety – even in the car park.

“There are also panic buttons on the walls in the gym in case you feel unsafe,” he says. “Security will arrive in a very short time.”

The gym is accessed via a key fob swipe card programmed with each person’s name, and the system will only allow that one person in. The fob also means the members on-site can be tracked at any time of the day or night.

“As well as being a particularly safe gym, it’s also just a really welcoming environment where members can achieve their fitness goals,” says Alex.

Anytime Fitness, 15 Bowman Street, Macquarie. More information at www. anytimefitness.com.au.

Canberra Confidential

The member for sexy T-shirts

YOU can take Chic Henry out of the Summernats, but it seems you can’t take the Summernats out of the candidate for Ginninderra, even during an election campaign.

The Australian Motorist Party’s star candidate’s daughter took to Facebook to seek some “lovely ladies” to help with Chic’s political campaign, promising to provide “sexy T-shirts, two hours of cocktails and lots of fun!”

While “CC” well understands the demographic appeal of “sexy T-shirts” (ie, the male vote), we’re left wondering what particular points Chic is using them to illustrate.

Huffing and puffing

LEADING defamation lawyer Ric Lucas offers a practical twist on Wikileaks hideaway founder Julian Assange’s highly publicised threat from the Ecuadorian Embassy in London to sue Prime Minister Julia Gillard

“What no-one has mentioned is that since he is abroad indefinitely, he could only sue if he provided security for costs,” he says.

“A plaintiff who is resident in a foreign country will normally be ordered to provide security. Given he has been granted asylum in Ecuador, I think Mr Assange must surely be regarded as resident there, despite appearing regularly at a window in Knightsbridge!”

Now that the people who provided the bail money for him have been ordered to pay up, who will provide security for costs, he wonders?

Jon’s gone, no vote

LABOR will be one big vote down in Ginninderra this election with the seat’s former vote magnet and veteran Chief Minister Jon Stanhope leaving town the very day ACT absentee voting opened. Not that he’s an absent voter. He was off to take up his two-year job as administrator of Christmas Island.

Tony’s a big stayer

THIS must be a world record of some sort. First, “CC” was informed the Australia Indonesia Association’s treasurer Tony Eastaway has been a committee member for all of 41 years, which we thought was a pretty impressive effort on its own.

But after contacting Tony, “CC” discovered it didn’t end there – he retired last year from a 60-year stint as a real estate agent at LJ Hooker, at age 78!

He told “CC” he never really got bored of the job in the 60 years he was there, and every day was different.

“When I first started out in 1951, there were only two real estate agents in Canberra. The city was a lot quieter back then; the only two buildings in the city were the Sydney and Melbourne Buildings.”

“CC” was glad to hear Tony was eventually awarded for his outstanding contribution to the industry – he received a lifetime award at the Real Estate Institute of the ACT Awards for Excellence last year.

The ‘failour’ of spelling

LAST week we had the word “manure” misspelt in a sign as “manuar”. This week’s cracker is from a closed shop door at the Tuggeranong Hyperdome. The unfortunate note attracted the attention of more than a few bemused and confused passers-by – and we’re guessing the poor staff member behind this “failour” to spell failure won’t be entering any “spelling bees” anytime soon.

Salvonista vanista

FASHIONISTA, we know, means someone with a flair for combining current and vintage fashion trends, but “Salvonista” has “CC” stumped. But not the Salvos (who made it up, anyway). It’s someone who prides themselves not only on how they look on the outside but also on the inside – helping the community and others around them.

Salvonistas are urged to get to Gungahlin Place, 10am-5pm, on Saturday, October 20 to grab a bargain at the Salvonista Mobile Boutique (a converted van that transforms into a funky fashion store). The event promises fashion tips from stylists and the chance to hunt for pre-loved fashion treasures. Information at www.salvonista.com.au

Gone, but not forgotten

THE Chief Minister Katy Gallagher, bless her, acted swiftly to the “CityNews” story last week of the demise of the heritagelisted Starlight Drive-In sign, dispatching a night-time crane to lift and transport the fallen icon to a Government depot to ensure it is refurbished.

The cover story reminded local photographer Col Ellis (“I read your article

on the Starlight Drive-In sign and find it unbelievable that it wasn’t preserved for heritage value”) of a splendid photo he took in 1993 when it was closing down.

“I thought I’d best get a photo just in case, and I’m glad I did!” he says. “I had a work acquaintance take his historic ‘50s Ford Customline out there for an added look of authenticity.”

arts & entertainment

Salsa, samba, tango... just dance!

Olesya Sydorenko, from the Ukraine, who will perform at the festival.

The first Canberra Latin Dance Festival is about to hit the dance floor. Arts editor HELEN MUSA feels the heat...

HOW do you account for the extraordinary popularity of Latin dance in Canberra?

It’s a question Ecuadorian-Australian sisters Raquel and Andrea Paez have been asking themselves as they embark on the first Canberra Latin Dance Festival.

They’ve been running a dance school called Salsabor for the past eight years, but this venture is not just about them, it’s for all Canberra’s Latin dance schools.

“There’s so much talent in the ACT,” Raquel tells “CityNews”. “Normally we have to travel, so we thought: ‘Why not bring everyone here to unite under one roof?’”

In the first year of the festival, it’s not easy to find sponsorship, but they have found loyal supporters in dance-shoe specialists and a reflexology company that will give massages to tired feet throughout the event.

It’s not a competition, it’s a festival.

There will be simultaneous dance workshops (41 in all) every hour until 5pm on the weekend, ranging from salsa through zouk, reggeaton, bachata, samba, rueda, cha cha, tango, bachatango and yoga.

Then, from 8pm, local dance schools will come alive on the floor.

As well, the Paez sisters together with their friend, IT whizkid Darian Bridge, are bringing in three international guests, Neeraj Maskara from India; Ismael Otero, from the US, and Olesya Sydorenko, from the Ukraine via Singapore.

On the last night of the Festival, “Noche Latina”, the stars will be Canberra’s own Mi Terra, judged Australia’s Best Latin Band 2011.

That’s not all. Interstate guests include Oliver Pineda and his partner Vali Damaskou, specialists in zouk lambada and salsa, the 2006 place-getter in the Mayan World Salsa Competition in Los Angeles, Jaime Jesus, and Bachata dancer Juan Ruiz.

“We had to invest in the visitors ourselves,” Raquel says, but the expectation is that the festival will take off quickly and with it the sponsorship.

For her, coming to Canberra from Bathurst 13 years ago was the best thing that could have happened. Though raised by her parents to love dance and music, it wasn’t until she got here that she could study dance.

“I guess I’m blessed” she says.

So what is it about Latin dance? Is it art? Is

Tim takes ‘Stick’ to Canberra

By Helen Musa

OH, for the heady days, back in the ‘80s, busking in Garema Place, writing poems for “Muse” magazine, enjoying the ANU when it was still a real campus...

Yes, Tim Ferguson, is in a sentimental mood when photographer Silas Brown and I catch up with him at Tosolini’s.

And though he’s become very famous since then, travelling the world (even playing Timbuktu) as a member of the Doug Anthony Allstars, a shock jock, an author and now as a coach in comedy, those happy days of group-house living and music-making still grab the soul.

He even remembers Stephen Pike playing Claude in “Hair” for Tempo Theatre.

Now he’s coming “home” again with his own show, “Carry a Big Stick”. There’s a double meaning – Ferguson is still a formidable person, but he also needs a stick because of multiple sclerosis symptoms. It’s all in the show.

“I didn’t know I had it first, maybe from about age 19… I had a bizarre collection of symptoms – buzzing in my head and elbows and it was hard to sleep,” he says.

Then, at age 32, he had an MRI and the specialist showed him “all the scleroses”.

MS kept him out of the public eye for years, but Ferguson turned to teaching and, with the aid of voice-recognition software, writing, successfully helping himself to “have a life”.

These days, his bread-and-butter career is taking classes at RMIT on how to write comedy.

it sport? Is it social? To Raquel, most people start with the aim of meeting people and quickly become part of a friendly community. After that, they perfect their skills and that could lead to competition.

“I can teach it,” he says. “And yet,” he roars, “I’m the only teacher of narrative comedy in Australia – it’s a bloody outrage.”

So will his 80-minute show be stand-up or sit-down comedy? I ask as politely as I can. “I’ll be standing up, then sitting down as fast as possible,” he says.

“Carry a Big Stick,” The Playhouse, October 19. Bookings to 6275 2700 or www.canberraticketing. com.au

The Plate finds a new place, Page 29

With madness on their mind

arts & entertainment reviews Dracula rocks with yucky gags

“Mental” (MA)

I ANGUISHED about a third star for PJ Hogan’s feminism-focused comedy, where ambitious Gold Coast mayoral candidate (Anthony LaPaglia) commits Shirley (Rebecca Gibney), the loopy mother of his five daughters, and installs quirky hitchhiker Shaz to nanny them.

Sounds familiar? Toni Collette. Local government. Coastal town. Hogan used those and other familiar ingredients in “Muriel’s Wedding”, top Aussie comedy with social bite that also projected Collette to the front rank of the acting profession.

“Mental” has good, small moments when its women – young and old – must confront mental health issues. Shaz exposes the five daughters to fresh lifestyle possibilities, taking the mickey out of middle-class neighbours, showing herself as a force for women’s rights and concealing a tough personal agenda. At the psychiatric hospital, Shirley and Sandra (Deborah Mailman, always wonderful) join Shaz to form a sisterhood to be reckoned with.

In fact, while stresses of life may have weighed heavily on that trio, Hogan’s screenplay holds back on inflicting them with genuine mental illnesses.

“Mental” is not well crafted. That may not bother people who expect clever comedy, but what I consider the film’s best moment is when Shaz uses the last

Dougal Macdonald cinema

uncleared linguistic obstacle in cinematic edginess to describe one of the middleclass ladies. Not once but several times, with admirable vigour. The word has been spoken before, but this time it drew an audible gasp of audience surprise.

The second-best, which has encountered some adverse comment in tabloid print media elsewhere, is a sequence involving Shaz asking Nancy Next-door (Kerry Fox) to find sanitary protection for the five daughters. The sequence is bold about its subject rather than unpleasant, a truth of life that, while not needing emphasis, fits in with the film’s underlying concerns. These children need a mother for more than cooking and laundry!

At all cinemas

“Taken 2” (M)

FOUR years ago, an actioner written by Luc Besson and Robert Kamen ended with intelligence agent Bryan (Liam Neeson) at the burial of a bunch of middleeastern hoodlums who tried to abduct his daughter Kim (Maggie Grace) to sell her into prostitution.

Four years of real time later, it’s still that day and Bryan, Kim and Kim’s mother

Lenore (Famke Janssen) have not yet left Istanbul. And Krasniqi (Rade Serbedzija), father of one of the dead hoodlums, seeks vengeance.

That’s the whole substance of this sequel, by the same writers and directed by the improbably-named Olivier Megaton. No matter that that substance has substance, violently executed, fast-paced, tense and energetic.

But the film is no more than a destructive chase along crowded, narrow Istanbul streets and through dank corridors of old, deserted buildings, interspersed with disquieting sequences especially

involving Lenore enduring pain and other indignities after being captured.

Bryan is also a captive. Kim is the only member of the family still at large. And she’s diffident about carrying out daddy’s instructions without question.

Don’t you just hate it when a character wants to dissimulate about urgent action to stave off disaster? Yes, we all know that without that time-wasting contrivance, the action has credibility problems.

But credibility is ultimately not the main problem in “Taken 2”. Lack of plot diversification is.

At all cinemas

children’s theatre

“The Dracula Rock Show”

Pied Piper Productions

Tuggeranong Arts Centre, season closed

Reviewed by Bill Stephens

THIS Dracula really sucks… with some of the cutest zombies, ghouls and vampires you’re likely to encounter this side of Transylvania.

The witty script provides plenty to sink your fangs into, with all your favourite horror story characters regurgitating the best lines from the worst horror stories. The songs channel Abba, Queen, The Rolling Stones, even Leonard Bernstein, and are performed to John Yoon’s keyboard accompaniment.

Director Nina Stevenson has assembled an engaging cast of young actors of varying skills and experience, including Brendan Kelly as Quasimodo, Dean Lowe-Carlus doubling as Dracula and Steroid Stan, Teagan Ricketts as Queen of the Night, Lexie Gorman as Shirley Holmes, Caitlin Davis as Vladimir, Tom Maloney, also doubling as Watson and Jagged Mick and Daniel Tedeschi in a scene-stealing turn as Carlotta.

Joining in the fun, Thompson Quan Wing has provided an appropriately ghoulish set complete with skeleton and coffins, and the simple, choreographed routines, devised by Kathryn Jones, cheekily poke fun at contemporary pop groups and talent shows while keeping the show moving along.

A little more confidence and attack, which will come with more performances, will prevent some of the best lines being lost because of inexperienced delivery, but enough yucky gags remain to delight the young target audience who happily groaned and laughed in all the right places.

arts & entertainment

The Plate finds a new place

CHINESE chips. I am openly addicted to them. They are a signature dish at China Plate Kingston, which opened on Kennedy Street a couple of weeks ago.

These chips are made with eggplant, lightly battered and garnished with five spicy salt and fresh chilli ($16). While a friend I regularly dine with screws up her nose at the thought of having to eat this vegetable, she simply had to admit that this dish is fantastic. So much so, we were back two days after we had it the first time for more (dare we admit it?).

China Plate has relocated from its city location and is adding spice to the inner-south dining scene. In charge are Lin Pun and Amy Lo, who have the art of making you feel welcome down pat.

The modern fit-out features long, bench seating and silk pillows in stunning royal purple, shimmering gold, emerald green and ruby reds. The snow white dishware is meticulously sourced from Hong Kong, the hanging lights contemporary and the fresh table flowers very pretty indeed.

China Plate’s chef, Jun Wu, came with the team from the Melbourne Building. His dishes are exceptionally delicious, but very reasonably priced. A dish already high in popularity is the pan-fried, tender fillet steak with the perfect amount of house-made wasabi sauce to add a bit of kick ($22). Another big hit are the Shanghai dumplings ($6 for three) and we agreed that the marinated lamb cutlets, with the chef’s secret ingredients, were mega stars ($28).

The whole lemon sole, another specialty (market price), was perked up with the side dish of cucumber and smashed garlic in XO sauce ($8), a pickled-type dish loved in North China.

On the next visit I’m going for the roasted “duck in the pool”. It takes 45 minutes to create and is marinated in Chinese herbs ($28). And I have no doubt the chef makes a mean laska.

Another China Plate Kingston special touch is the way they offer the “old favourites”. You choose your meat, seafood or veggies and then select how you want them prepared (for example, satay, Mongolian, chilli, black bean – prices from $13).

Next up on the menu is the yum cha banquet, which will likely start in November (with bookings required), and Lin and Amy are mulling over offering Hong Kong-style breakfast (how does an omelette stuffed with bbq pork sound as a kickstart to your day?).

China Plate Kingston has a function room that comfortably seats 10, so if you are looking for privacy do not hesitate to ask Lin and Amy to book it for you.

China Plate, Kennedy Street, Kingston. Not yet fully licensed (soon). Open Monday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. Call 6260 7555.

Albert gets the best of the guild

THE popular Embroiderers’ Guild will hold its annual exhibition and sale in Albert Hall, 10am4pm, on October 19-21 (with the official opening, 7.30pm, October 18. The guild runs a famous cafe with all food prepared by its members.

AUTHOR and “CityNews” columnist, Robert Macklin tells me his new book, “One False Move”, has been, happily, designated “Pick of the Month” in every airport bookshop in Australia.

THE Selby and Friends’ season finale for 2012 brings together leader Kathryn Selby on piano with Natsuko Yoshimoto on violin and Emma-Jane Murphy on cello in a rare reunion of talents.

“Prodigy to Prodigious”, is at Fairfax Theatre, NGA, October 16. Bookings to 8256 2222.

THE ANU National University Theatre Society (NUTS) is staging that old theatrical warhorse, “Harvey”, by Mary Chase. Famous as a vehicle for

Jimmy Stewart, it’s the one about the man whose friend is an imaginary rabbit. ANU Arts Centre Drama Lab, October 17-20. Bookings to anusa.com.au/tickets or at the door.

“TO Kill a Mockingbird” is one of the mostloved courtroom and coming-of-age films of all time. Now local director, Liz Bradley, is directing the stage version for Free Rain Theatre, at the Courtyard Studio from October 19-November 4. Bookings to 6275 2700 or www.canberraticketing.com.au

THE Poetry in Film Festival helps showcase the talents of independent filmmakers, who have until October 19 to interpret the poem “from Freo”, by Kevin Gillam, into a short film. For all details, visit poetryinfilmfestival.com.au/

HE’S called the “Ultimate Entertainer”, but he started out tentatively at the School of Arts Cafe in Queanbeyan. Yes, it’s David Campbell, now co-host of “Mornings on 9” and he’ll be at the Top of the Cross, Woden Southern Cross Club, October 20. Bookings to 6283 7200.

ON the same night, the Glenn Miller Orchestra concert spectacular is at Canberra Theatre at 8pm. Musical director Rick Gerber promises “a sentimental journey” with hits such as “Chattanooga Choo-Choo” and “Pennsylvania 6-5000”. A great antidote to the election on the same day. Bookings to 6275 2700 or www.canberraticketing.com.au

ON the other hand, there’s the ANU Choral Society, with soloists Sarahlouise Owens and David Smith, singing Rachmaninov’s “Vespers” on October 20 at the Church of St Andrew. Bookings to trybooking.com/BVLI or at the door.

Joanne Madeline Moore

your week in the stars / October 15 - 21

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

The New Moon revs up your romance zone. If you are attached, get ready for a relationship renaissance. Open and honest communication is the key to a satisfying union. Looking for a partner? True love could be as close as the boy or girl next door. Avoid being an arrogant Aries – if you practice the gentle art of persuasion, you’ll be surprised how well the week goes.

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)

You love your cozy creature comforts, but you’re about to be shaken out of your complacent comfort zone as the New Moon and Jupiter provide a shot of adrenalin to tired old Taurus routines. Plus health issues are highlighted. So it’s time for hedonistic Bulls to leap off the couch and lift weights (rather than cream buns) as you get your body moving again.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Boredom is a big no-no for restless Twins this week, as the New Moon energises your entertainment zone. So you’ll need to keep your mercurial mind busy, stimulated and amused. The focus is also on friendships, but they won’t all run smoothly. Expect surprises, hiccups and hijinks along the way. Focus on the facts this Sunday – and don’t skip over minor details.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

Too much work and too little play can make Crabs cranky and difficult to live with. The New Moon encourages you to re-adjust your home/work balance. You could also make a fresh start via a spring clean, renovation, change of residence or new house-mate. If you let your intuition point you in the right direction, the world will be your oyster.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

The New Moon links up with Jupiter this week, which boosts your adventurous side (and your bossy, boisterous streak). Two-way communication is a top priority. Don’t always jump in and hog the conversation – it’s time to do less talking and a lot more listening. Plus expand your mental horizons via reading, writing, stimulating conversations, study and travel.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)

You need to review financial matters and get up-to-date with bills and business paperwork, as the New Moon lights up your money zone. Plus focus on serious saving rather than spontaneous spending. And with Venus visiting Virgo (until October 28) don’t overdose on trying to be absolutely perfect. Remember – perfection is a goal, not a destination.

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)

Librans love dressing up and have a passion for fashion. With the annual New Moon in your sign, it’s the perfect time for a hot new hairstyle, a marvellous makeup makeover or a spring wardrobe update. Be inspired by Oscar Wilde (born on October 15): “If I were all alone marooned on a desert island and had my things with me, I should dress for dinner every evening.”

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)

The New Moon stimulates your soul sector, so turn your attention inward via some quiet contemplation. Expect flashes of ESP, an insightful dream or a fateful meeting with someone special. On Sunday you’re inclined to extreme views, black and white thinking and intense communication. But it is the perfect time to research a subject in a deep and vast way.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

With positive New Moon/Jupiter aspects (plus impulsive Mars in your sign), you’ve definitely got the urge to splurge and over-indulge in all departments. So your motto for the week is from birthday great Oscar Wilde: “I can resist everything except temptation.” You’re also keen to help others – but make sure you don’t promise more than you are prepared to deliver.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

It’s time to reassess your career aspirations. Are you pursuing your professional dreams and heading in the right direction? If not, then some adventurous adjustments may be necessary, as Jupiter jolts you into action. Learn to delegate, otherwise you’ll end up being a grumpy Goat. And, if you are too consumed with work concerns, friends and family will feel neglected.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Dream big dreams Aquarius, as the New Moon activates your aspirations zone. But make sure your creative plans aren’t just surface gloss and glamour. Plenty of elbow grease (and the cooperation of others) is required if you want to turn your dreams into reality. You crave excitement and are impatient for change, but don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

The New Moon promises exciting developments to do with lust or loot. Some flirtatious Fish can look forward to a hot new romance (or a revitalised old one), but there will be strings attached. You’ll also feel drawn to intense and powerful people this week – but make sure they influence you in positive, productive ways. And try to keep sex and money separate.

Across

1 Name an institution for the care of the insane

8 What is an act of retaliation?

9 Name the device to be aimed at in shooting contests

10 What do we call the ruler in a form of government in which the power is vested in a few?

11 Lusaka is the capital of which landlocked African republic?

12 What is an alternative term for a sand hill?

13 Name the trophy played for by England and Australia in test cricket

16 That which is pleasing to the palate is called what?

19 To be partly open is to be what?

21 Name another term applicable to not being in a certain place at a given time

22 What is the use of exaggeration in speech?

23 Name Old World wild goats

24 What are colloquially called snags?

25 Name another term for Kingsford Smith airport

Down

2 Which beetles were regarded as sacred in ancient Egypt?

3 That which may be read or deciphered with ease is said to be what?

4 Name the harum-scarum amphibian in The Wind in the Willows (2,4)

5 What is drawn along the bottom of a river to catch something?

6 What do we call those who lend money at exorbitant rates of interest?

7 Name the medieval science said to transmute baser metals into gold

13 What is a female performer known as?

14 Which single long arm bone extends from the shoulder to the elbow?

15 Name a metal urn used for heating the water for making tea, etc

17 What is a localised collection of pus in any part of the body?

18 Which fruit is a cross between the tangerine and the grapefruit?

20 What is discriminatory behaviour to people of other nationalities?

An elegant garden in a new light

Words: Kathryn Vukovljak

Photos: Silas Brown

PERHAPS best known as the “Christmas lights house”, the lovely, elegant garden at 3 Tennyson Crescent, Forrest, will be seen in a new light when it’s opened to the public for the first time as part of Open Gardens Australia on the weekend of October 20-21.

Last year, homeowner David Richards set a new Guinness World Record for the most lights on a residential home, with more than 331,000 Christmas lights attracting thousands of visitors.

“We’re giving the lights a rest this year,” he says. “I need a break!”

The family moved in six years ago to a “run down, but well-established” garden, says Richard.

“We gutted the garden with a bobcat but kept the original plantings, many of which dated back to the 1930s,” he says.

The mature plantings include stunning pink, white and purple azaleas, which were relocated to the rear of the home.

“We had the garden professionally landscaped at the outset, which makes the garden easier to maintain now,” says Richard. “If you get it right at the start it makes all the difference.”

At the front of the home is a large circular driveway bordered by weeping Japanese maples, crap apple and weeping birch, above flowering carpet roses and escallonia. It’s also protected by several enormous pine trees, which originally formed a hedge around the garden.

“We love the shady canopy we get at the front – it makes a wonderful place for the kids to play and ride their bikes,” he says.

A verandah wraps around the home and

provides the family’s favourite place from which to enjoy the garden. It overlooks the lawn and beautiful contoured beds edged in English and Japanese box, with a mix of hellebores, azaleas, ground cover camellias, rhododendrons, tulips and colourful annuals.

“There’s always something flowering, even if it doesn’t last very long,” says David’s wife Janean.

All the new plantings, including golden ash, hydrangeas, camellias, manchurian pears and port-wine magnolia, were chosen to fit with the old style of the garden, says Richard.

The garden at 3 Tennyson Crescent, will be open on Saturday, October 20 and Sunday, October 21, 10am-4.30pm. Adults $7, children under 18 are free. There will be morning and afternoon tea for sale, with tea and coffee. Funds raised will go to the Open Garden Scheme and SIDS & Kids ACT. More information at www.opengarden.org.au.

Get the cool, beautiful blues

BLUE flowers give the feeling of coolness, especially on hot, summer days.

Blue is one of nature’s most beautiful colours. Blue flowers blend with almost any other colour.

Pale blues to rich blues match perfectly all the pastel colours, white, pink, violet, mauve and purple.

Exotic plants with these colours also blend beautifully with our Aussie plants. For example, rosemary planted in conjunction with Prostanthera ovalifolia, or native mint bush illustrated here.

The range of blue amongst perennial plants is endless, with the long-flowering Campanula “Telham Beauty” shown here as an example.

AS tulips and daffodils fade at Floriade, their place is taken

Cedric Bryant gardening

with the bulbs of blue and white Dutch iris. At the same time, tall, bearded iris, which have rhizomes, are starting to bloom, perhaps popping up amongst Triteleia or “Star of Bethlehem”, with its mass of pale-blue flowers. Originating in Spain and Portugal, bearded iris are really tough and will survive any drought. Maybe we should refer to the pale-blue Triteleia flowers as “Cambridge Blue” as opposed to the deep-blue ground cover Parahebe “Oxford Blue”.

IN the past I have had several clients specify only blue and white flowers in their garden. How totally boring, one might say? And yet, it can be amazingly beautiful. Naturally, when I say blue and

Sunny garden reminders

• If you have not already planted summer and autumn flowering bulbs do so now

• It is still not too late to core and/or dethatch lawns. Need a name? Try Paul Howard on 6231 2920.

• Plant clematis roots in the shade with the stems and flowers in the sun. Place an old tile over the roots to keep them moist and cool.

• Plant yellow and orange flowers of calendulas round the veggie bed to discourage insect pests. These colours combine well with blue flowers.

white, these colours are offset with all the garden’s shades of green.

At Sissinghurst Castle in England, one of the most famous gardens in the world, visited by hundreds of thousands of people annually, most visitors want to see the White Garden with its feature of white roses mixed with a succession of other white flowers throughout the spring and summer into the autumn. One could equally have a blue garden.

I RECENTLY suggested growing thornless climbing roses through deciduous trees. Equally, one could grow clematis through shrubs and trees in the garden. They are both evergreen and deciduous clematis to suit every season of the year. In our garden, I am training Clematis “Romantika” with its rich-blue flowers through the maple Acer “Bloodgood”. This maple has purple leaves from spring to autumn and the blue of the clematis against the purple provides the “wow” factor. If blue and white only is not your scene, then blue will blend with every other colour. For instance, combinations of blue and yellow can look stunning.

CONGRATULATIONS to Don and Lisa Franklin on recently acquiring The Garden, often referred to as

the Parkwood Garden Centre, in Belconnen.

Don and Lisa are well-known in the local nursery industry. I visited there last week and was taken not only by the range of plants, but the neatness of the centre. If you have not visited this nursery in recent times, I encourage you to do so.