140206 citynews

War trauma, live on stage

LAURA EDWARDS

Creepy dates with sugar daddies

CANBERRA CONFIDENTIAL

The hardy plant that lurves hot weather

CEDRIC BRYANT

You’re so saved!

Four pages of Valentine inspiration

The need for greed Leonardo DiCaprio

on

excess

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Soldiers bring trauma into the spotlight

WHEN Cpl David Cantley returned home after serving for the Australian Defence Force in Afghanistan, he found himself fighting his own battle.

“It was becoming hard just to drive to work and walk out of the car,” he says.

“I had so many panic attacks, depression and anxiety… it was a horrible time.”

In March Cpl Cantley will be one of 13 soldiers to appear on stage alongside professional actors to talk about the physical and psychological traumas they endured while on operations in Iraq, Afghanistan and East Timor in a new play at The Playhouse, “The Long Way Home”.

The play, to be co-produced by the Sydney Theatre Company and the Australian Defence Force, is written by Melbourne playwright Daniel Keene but draws heavily on the testimonies of the servicemen and women, their families and professionals tasked with mending broken bodies and minds.

Its aim is to use theatre as a way to rehabilitate soldiers wounded or suffering from psychological trauma, and help lift the lid on military life.

Brig. Alison Creagh, who is based in Canberra and volunteered to help coproduce the play, says “The Long Way Home” was inspired by the success of a similar play, “The Two Worlds of Charlie F”, which premiered in London in 2012 starring British soldiers.

“The idea was put to our soldiers and these guys have bravely put their hands up and really taken on a significant project to aid their recovery,” she says.

“Within weeks I’ve seen soldiers who were in a very black place smiling and laughing again, and their confidence just growing.

“They’ve found sharing their experiences with one another very powerful. They realise from the experience, they’re not the only people that have struggled and that has helped them in their recovery journey.”

Brig. Creagh says many of the soldiers in the play have harrowing injuries; one sergeant was badly injured when a rocket exploded in her Baghdad sleeping quarters while others have seen their mates “blown up” and are unable to admit to their loved ones the extent of their psychological distress.

“It will be a confronting experience

for both the audience and the soldiers, but the reason why it’s achievable for these soldiers to do this, is because it has been written in a way that is artful in designing the characters so no one character is a complete reflection of one individual story,” Brig. Creagh says.

“We’re not asking them to play themselves. They’re playing a character that has elements of themselves, so it’s a piece of fiction that has their experiences woven throughout.”

Although the play is still in rehearsals, Cpl Cantley says he’s “starting to feel proud” of himself again.

“I’ve been able to stand up, learn lines, and I’m actually enjoying it… you just switch off, the panic fades –and that’s a huge huge step for me,” he says.

“What I want the audience to try and get out of it is if there’s anyone out there with any injuries or mental illnesses, just put your hand up and speak to someone. Things aren’t that bad. Don’t do it on your own, you’ve got so many people out there to talk to.”

“The Long Way Home”, The Playhouse, March 19-22.

Arts & Entertainment 29-31

Canberra Confidential 15

Cinema 31

Chinese horoscope 32-33

Garden 34

Horoscope 28

News 3-10

Puzzles 28

Socials 17-19

Suduko 28

Cover: Leonardo DiCaprio in “The Wolf of Wall Street”. Story

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Jardine Street, Kingston

in

Geoff draws a salary from graffiti

Street artist Geoff Filmer thinks “it’s fantastic” that the ACT Government is to implement more legal graffiti walls. He tells LAURA EDWARDS it’s akin to creating “a giant gallery” for the city.

AS a boy growing up with dyslexia, art became an escape for Geoff Filmer.

“I really struggled at school and gradually I developed the idea that art could be a way of channelling the paranoia that people might judge you as not good enough, and turning that into something good,” Geoff says.

“I’d see a paintbox or a spray can and it started to conjure up images of a deeper story or meaning.”

In his twenties Geoff, 38, began spray painting colourful murals in Canberra’s south

– “any murals I did were by a legal wall system, I felt I was too old to run around town spraying tags,” he laughs.

Geoff now runs his own full-time street art business, Graffik, which launched in 2011 and employs around six freelance painters.

Graffik, which also runs regular street-art classes for locals, has been used by more

than 50 businesses around Canberra to paint huge murals as a way to advertise and act as a deterrent for unwanted graffiti or vandalism.

A recent push by the ACT Government to implement more legal graffiti walls “is fantastic” says Geoff, who believes it is akin to creating “a giant gallery” for the city.

Businesses can pay anywhere from $1500 to $3000 for the murals, working with the artists to create a lasting message that is woven into the cityscape.

Geoff’s most recent job was for Canberra CBD Limited, where he and several other artists created a mural to mark this year’s Multicultural Festival in Garema Place. The mural, which took around six hours to paint and features skulls, fast cars and carnival dancers, explores themes of Canberra’s growth as a city.

“To be honest I never thought I’d get to be doing this

for a living,” says Geoff, a former mechanic.

“I’m so thankful businesses like Canberra CBD are really embracing street art as a way to add vibrancy here, and that’s part of why I started my business, because I really saw scope for it to grow in Canberra.”

Over time, Geoff says the community has accepted street art as a way to bring aesthetic value to the city.

“Attitudes have changed over the years… there used to be people who couldn’t decipher the difference between street art and illegal graffiti,

but now I get so much feedback from people saying they love it, and see it as a way to engage with the space we’re all living in,” he says.

“In my street art classes, for example, we all thought it would be just young people but the majority of my students are over 30, just people who really wanted to learn for fun and didn’t know how to go about it. It’s really breaking down the stereotypes of street art being a younger person’s thing.”

Geoff mixes his street art duties with a role as a stayat-home dad to twins – “it’s a dream job, really,” he says.

Recently he started teaching street art to disadvantaged and troubled youths as part of a holiday program at the Tuggeranong Arts Centre.

He believes the classes could have the ability to combat antisocial behaviour.

“It’s funny, because the boys first came in with their tatts, shoulders slumped,

and an attitude,” he says.

“After a while they realised I wasn’t there to judge them. They grabbed an aerosol can and started painting and their confidence just lifted. Street art, I think, works above other methods in this style of program because, compared to other art, these kids see it as something cool, it’s something maybe they can relate to.”

Graffik’s next job will be creating a mural of a children’s book in a Tuggeranong parking lot, which will then be photographed and sold as a real children’s book, to raise money for children with brain injuries.

“I think it shows street art has slowly gone from being something that just catches people’s attention or acts as a deterrent for vandalism, to becoming something that inspires people, changes a city’s landscape, or raises money for a good cause… and that’s what I love most about it.”

More information at graffikpaint.com.au/

At 70, Jan takes to the power of pedals

STEPHEN EASTON meets determined Jan McKenzie who, despite falling off her bike again and again, never gave up on learning to cycle at 70.

INSPIRED by an extremely enthusiastic woman she heard on the radio raving about the wonders of a bicycle skills course for adults, Mawson resident Jan McKenzie decided to give it a go herself.

She hadn’t ridden a bike for 62 years, but it’s the quintessential thing that you never forget, right?

“I couldn’t ride at all,” she laughs. “When I first started riding there were times when I fell off every time I got on! It was horrible!”

When Jan enrolled in the “New Horizons” course run by social cycling club Pedal Power last February, she was still unsure about the whole idea of becoming a bike rider at 70, but put her doubts aside and pondered what kind of bike she would ride and where it would come from.

Reluctant to buy one in case she hated it straight away, Jan decided to start off with a practice on a friend’s bike and saw the gradient of the learning curve she faced was rather steep.

“I tried to get on her bike but I just couldn’t do it,” she recalls.

Despite this less than successful debut, Jan was still determined to join Pedal Power and enrol in the course.

She turned to Google, researched the “best bike for an older person” and chose a touring bike with a wide seat, step-through frame, short wheelbase, tall headset, shock absorbers and grip-shift gear selectors.

“I went off to the course and it was just great!” Jan enthuses. “It went for 10 weeks and I loved it. I met people and everybody was so helpful. I would fall off the bike, get back on – you know, I really was the worst in the class, out of about 14 women, but I’d go every week and I’d try.”

She is effusive in her praise for the patient and helpful instructors and volunteers from Pedal Power.

“In the end they sort of assigned people to me to yell out instructions,” she says. “They were fabulous! They rode with me when all the other people went off, touring around and I was sort of struggling along. It was wonderful.”

Pedal Power runs separate New Horizons programs for women and people over 55 who want to learn and improve their bike skills to ride safely and with more confidence. Jan chose the course for women and found she made a lot of new friends.

“I became friends – good friends – with about four of them,” she says. “I meet them occasionally and we go for a ride together”.

The course is not only for absolute beginners like Jan, but any adults in the target groups – women over 18 and anyone over 55 –and covers a whole range of bicycle skills for adults, including traffic awareness, nutrition, basic maintenance and even includes a lesson in using the bike racks on Action buses.

“By the end I’d achieved pretty much what I’d wanted to,” says Jan. “I can ride without falling off, which wasn’t the case for about the first four weeks, but I still can’t say that I’m very good at it!”

More information at pedalpower.org.au

The big car show

“WHEELS”, Canberra’s biggest car show, will be held in Kings Park, just down from the Carillon, 9am-3pm, on Sunday, March 16 and will feature more than 900 cars from around the world. Run by the Council of ACT Motor Clubs, the representative body of 65 ACT motor clubs, the show’s featured marque this year is Rolls Royce and 20-25 vehicles are expected to be on display including Silver Ghosts from the UK, the US, NZ and Australia – the oldest being a 1911 car. This year Wheels is supporting Technical Aid for the Disabled and food and coffee will be available from the Vietnam Veterans Association.

Help Vinnies

VINNIES is looking for volunteers in the Canberra and Queanbeyan areas to boost its annual February doorknock appeal. Frank Brassil, president of the St Vincent de Paul Society, says the success of the appeal is directly linked to the number of volunteers. The doorknock campaign aims to raise $340,000 and anyone wishing to volunteer should visit vinniesdoorknock.org.au

Boundless trivia

THE Rotary Club of Canberra Sunrise is hosting a trivia night at the National Press Club, 7.30pm, Friday, February 28 in aid of the new Boundless playground in Canberra (an all-abilities playground). MC for the night is ABC 666’s Andrea Ho. Bookings to pnhill@dodo.com.au or call 0412 297257.

Boomerang treat

ABORIGINAL rangers at Tidbinbilla nature reserve will demonstrate boomerang throwing, 1pm-2pm, on Sunday, February 9 as part of a month of guided walks and activities, including koala tours, bush tales and pelican feeding sessions. Tickets are $5 and bookings are essential. Enquiries to 6205 1233 or tams.act.gov.au

Sweet solution to plumber’s setback

By Laura Edwards

BAKING colourful macarons

is a far cry from fixing leaky taps, but for Simon Hulm it’s been a “life-saving” career change after he was made redundant from his job as a plumber.

The Macgregor resident was left devastated when he lost his job at a small plumbing company in 2012 after an economic downturn.

“I didn’t know what to do at first, it was a real shock as it happened just weeks before my wedding, but I decided to use it as a chance to reinvent myself,” Simon says.

With his interest in dessertbaking in mind, Simon’s wife Lucy suggested he turn his hobby into a business.

“I’m used to cooking, at my house I’ve always been the chef, and usually desserts are my favourite thing to make,” Simon says.

“I started baking macarons because I knew they were popular and offered them for sale online… it was really hard to make them at first, they’re pretty fiddly, but I quickly got the hang of it.

“During Christmas 2012, I sold 1000 macarons online and later sold 1500 macarons in just 48 hours at the Handmade Markets – it was amazing.”

Simon now runs his own full-time macaron business, Lu’Mon (a combination of his and wife Lucy’s names) from home, creating about 200 maca-

Plumber turned macaron maker Simon Hulm… “I think with what is going on in Canberra currently, people can relate to my story of being made redundant and having to reinvent myself.”

rons a week for wedding orders, online sales and to stock in several cafes around Canberra.

He says he’s “shocked” at how popular the business is.

“I think with what is going on in Canberra currently, people can relate to my story of being made redundant and having to reinvent myself,” he says.

“I’ve found that a number of local cafes want to be connected to local suppliers and source their products locally – it is win-win, the money stays in Canberra, local businesses thrive and the customer gets something locally produced”.

Simon updates his macaron flavours every three months;

Photo by Gary Schafer

with favourites ranging from fairy floss to apple pie, salted caramel and lemon.

He says it’s not unusual for a tradie to have a passion for cooking.

“I used to bring my dessert creations to work when I was a plumber and my boss would take them from my lunchbox, so there’s certainly an appreciation for sweet foods there,” he says.

“I’m really thankful I had other interests as a back-up plan; it’s been a really amazing journey.”

More information at lumonmacarons.com.au

news Saving stories the city’s trees can tell

By Stephen Easton

THE great English poet William Blake once observed: “The tree which moves some to tears of joy is in the eyes of others only a green thing that stands in their way”.

Roughly 200 years later, the same divide still exists between those who feel an emotional response to trees and those who see little beyond their usefulness for shade, timber or produce.

Since 2006, arboreally inclined Canberrans have been able to make a case for the protection of any tree or group of trees on Territory land by nominating them for the ACT Tree Register.

Nominations are assessed according to their scientific, aesthetic and cultural value by the ACT Government’s Urban Treescapes team, who also look after the ones that make the cut and liaise with the landholders.

In the past seven years 118 individuals have been registered along with 28 groups - some of which, like Haig Park, contain thousands - but that’s not enough, according to tree protection officer Samantha Ning, who began working on the Tree Register last June.

“We’d love to get more nominations,” says Samantha, hanging out with “CityNews” under the shady canopy of a gigantic English oak that was registered last October.

“There hasn’t been much commu-

nity engagement as part of it, so I don’t think it’s that well known within the Canberra community. We’d really encourage people, if they know of a tree that they think is really special, why not nominate it?”

She says that along with their beauty and value as part of Canberra’s urban forest canopy, a lot of the registered trees have fascinating stories behind them just like the impressive oak in Deakin, which was planted by former Canberran Andrew Haydon over 50 years ago when he was seven years old.

“I used to pick up acorns and put them in my pockets on the way home from school, and some of them actually grew,” recalls Andrew, who lives on a farm near Cobargo, NSW.

“I moved one into that spot, but then another one from the same batch of acorns was growing considerably quicker. I thought I’d like to see one fully grown in my lifetime so I replaced the first one with what was, I think, a genetically superior tree, in terms of growth rates and overall beauty.”

Haydon loves cultivating plants and has been propagating trees his whole life, but says that the oak is a particularly special example that “exceeded all expectations” for its normally slowgrowing species.

“People have actually stopped and taken photographs of it, and a couple of people have even knocked on the door to say what a beautiful specimen of an

Tree protection officer Samantha Ning… “We’d really encourage people, if they know of a tree that they think is really special, why not nominate it?”

English oak it is,” he adds.

“The other thing is it tends to lose its leaves late in the season. There have actually been autumns where it hasn’t lost all its leaves; it’s partially lost them, then started to grow new ones so its almost evergreen, which is very unusual for an oak.”

Plenty of other trees all over town in frontyards and backyards, on median strips and at the local shops would meet

the criteria for the ACT Tree Register, and anyone can nominate them.

“It doesn’t necessarily have to be your own tree,” confirms Samantha, who says the Urban Treescapes team is consistently available to advise and consult tree owners, and assures us that living with a registered tree is not a burden.

“There are certain activities that are prohibited against registered trees,

and there are fines along with those prohibited activities,” she explains.

“There’s also a tree protection zone, which is the canopy plus two metres, so people will have to gain approval to do anything near the tree.

“If, say, a development was going on nearby, it gives the tree that protection to make sure it is retained; Canberra is known for its urban forest and this is just another way of protecting it.”

It starts with listening.

Catherine Coles - Solicitor

Family Law is complex and you need an experienced law firm to guide you.

But what you need most is someone to listen to you. To hear your story.

At Watts McCray, we understand that.

Victor’s very different way to start the day

SINCE Canberra’s first and only authentic soul food restaurant opened last March, lots of locals have latched on to the distinctive “flavours of New Orleans” dished up by chef Victor Kimble.

Kimble says his dinners have been a roaring success, with the vast majority of people who’ve been to Soul Food Kitchen at Erindale deciding to come back for another taste.

“I’m going through 85 to 90 kilos of ribs a week,” he says. “That’s a lot of ribs!”

What many of his satisfied customers don’t realise is that Soul Food Kitchen also opens for breakfast on weekends from 8am till midday, and for lunch, ThursdaySaturday, noon-3pm.

The friendly American-born chef has lived in Australia for 20 years and ran restaurants in Sydney and Noosa before coming to Canberra, which he likes for its peace and quiet.

“Being the only soul food restaurant in Canberra has been good for the most part,”

he says. “I’ve had my teething pains, as you would imagine, mainly with staff, and I’ve even had some people come in and try to tell me how to be me. How do you do that?”

How indeed? He probably doesn’t need any tips, considering his food was good enough for the likes of Stevie Wonder, James Brown, the Temptations and the Harlem Globetrotters, and he was thanked for making “the best New Orleans-style barbeque ribs I have tasted anywhere at any time in my life” by former US ambassador Jeffrey Bleich, after a Super Bowl event last year.

“It started out as my mum and my grandma’s recipe, but I’ve actually improved on that recipe myself,” says Victor. “I smoke my ribs; I smoke them the old fashioned way on a barbecue.”

Born in Birmingham, Alabama, about an eight-hour drive from New Orleans, Victor was raised on what later came to be known as “soul food” in the mid-1960s, when the word “soul” branded various elements of African-American culture.

Soul food, he explains, is the AfricanAmerican take on the famous blend of Native American, European and African food cultures that developed in the southeastern US over several hundred years.

“When I was growing up we were very poor so my mother would come up with these dishes, like her pancakes,” Victor recalls.

“She had four boys at that time and her pancakes were not just made from flour. She would put polenta in the mix, and polenta is a cornmeal, so it expands in the body and you stay full all day until dinnertime.”

Now that dish is on the breakfast menu at Soul Food Kitchen, as “Miss Selena’s Homemade Pancakes”, served with maple syrup and a choice between bacon and Victor’s incredible southern fried chicken.

Some of Victor’s happiest childhood memories include waking up on Saturday and Sunday mornings to the delicious aromas of his mother Selena’s fried chicken or pork chops wafting through the house.

“If she didn’t make pancakes to go with the fried chicken, she would make steamed rice with freshly churned butter,” says Victor. “That was always one of my favourites. It’s simple, but it was so good, and really filling.”

You can try that, too; just ask for Miss Selena’s Southern Fried Chicken and Rice. The chef admits fried chicken is not your usual breakfast food in Australia but that’s the whole point; he wants to give Canberrans a different way to start the day on a lazy weekend.

There’s also Fried Green Tomatoes served with homemade remoulade sauce, a seasonal dish because understandably, Victor’s had trouble finding suppliers for nearly ripe tomatoes.

There’s also the safe option of the standard big breakfast, three kinds of omelettes – chicken, vegetable and shrimp – as well as a couple of dishes straight out of New Orleans: Grilled Ham Steak Royale, which comes with poached eggs, and Eggs Theodore, which means scrambled with sauteed banana, butter, cinnamon and brown sugar.

“For lunch, I’m doing ribs, burgers, Bayou Prawn Salad, Cajun Chicken Salad, Blackened Barramundi, Cajun Cod, and I’ll have Jambalaya and Gumbo as specials, with cornbread muffins,” says Victor, whose unique charm – and his trombone skills – you get for free.

Take-away is available, he adds, and he’s also ready to cater for all kinds of events.

Soul Food Kitchen, Shop 8, 38 Gartside Street, Wanniassa. Call 6231 2568 or go to soulfoodkitchen.com.au

Canberra’s grooviest new restaurant joint offering the taste of authentic New Orleans USA southern style cuisine

Hearty and sizable meals, so please bring your appetite

Enjoy our Good ole’ southern hospitality! Owner Victor says: “it’s like

The chef admits fried chicken is not your usual breakfast food in Australia but that’s the whole point TAKEAWAY AND DINE IN Takeaway: Tuesday to Saturday 5pm to 9pm

Lunch: Thursday to Saturday 12pm to 3pm Dinner: Tuesday to Saturday 6pm to 9pm Breakfast: Saturday and Sunday 8am to 12pm

Ron Friesen | Partner

Family Law is complex and you need an experienced law firm to guide you.

But what you need most is someone to listen to you. To hear your story.

At Watts McCray, we understand that.

wattsmccray.com.au

Canberra Confidential

Creepy dates with sugar daddies

HOW creepy is this? The ANU has the fourth highest number of Australian students (165) signing up last year to a nauseating US website designed to relieve “college debt” by dating cashed-up sugar daddies. We were beaten to the title of “Fastest Growing Sugar Baby School” by the University of Sydney with 207 students joining in 2013. The organisers say one million students worldwide have logged on to SeekingArrangement.com in search of wealthy benefactors, with the average college “sugar baby” receiving $3000 a month. And how sugar babies separate sugar daddies from their dosh, we’ll leave to your imagination.

The forgotten wall

ROBYN? Robyn? Rob-yn! Ah, looks like we missed her. The Centenary’s artistic director Robyn Archer got all the flags and paraphernalia in before she left, but seems to have missed the bloody great painted wall at the side of the Canberra Museum and Gallery, unless it is destined to be a museum piece.

Goodbye rats, hello ‘roos

IF the Chinese horoscope is taking a toll on your ego and the prospect of being classified publicly as a pig, goat, rat or snake is holding you back, fear not.

The inscrutable Chinese Precinct General Chamber of Commerce has dreamed up the first Australian Chinese Zodiac (a bridge builder between Chinese and Australian communities).

“This new zodiac identifies the Australian native wildlife that matches very well with characteristics of the Chinese Zodiac animals, says its president

Wayne Tseng

“These were done by cultural and feng shui experts, and the results are quite interesting.”

Indeed, rats have become kangaroos, goats to koalas, snakes to goannas and pigs to echidnas.

The forgotten passport

CC received a passport from the “honorary consul-general for Tasmania” that, when entering the Apple Isle, allows the bearer access to the “world’s cleanest air” and to “enjoy the world’s most civilised licensing hours”. Turns out it’s an old promotional idea and the late Federal MP Michael Hodgman (“The Mouth from the South”) handed them out to officials he met when travelling overseas.

Lapsed Taswegian and former public servant John Milne says: “I suggested a Canberra passport along similar lines be produced during the ACT Centenary year to help promote the occasion. They said: ‘Great idea’.” He’s still awaiting a reply.

Rodanthe sent packing

EX-MIDWIFE Rodanthe Lipsett, 92, of Reid, holds an honorary doctorate from UC, is honoured with an Order of Australia Medal and has written a book, “Baby Care”, which offers advice for the early months of a new baby that is in its third edition. She dedicates most of the royalties to a national trust fund set up in her honour to provide support for Aboriginal midwives and works tirelessly to get the book into libraries, maternity homes and, especially, into the hands of teenage mums. Despite her age, she walks to town (“if you don’t use it, you lose it”) and gently persuades businesses to buy a book and inscribe it personally for young mums. The suits recognise her devotion and cheerfully find the $35.

At the end of last year she went to Queanbeyan and popped into shops to warm support, until she got to a real estate agency, where the besuited female manager sent the nonagenarian packing with the flourish that they had a firm policy of having nothing to do with “hawkers”. She told CC she chuckled at never having been called a “hawker” before. Unfortunately, she has forgotten the name of the firm, which saved them from our exposing the miserable tightwads.

Hmmms...

AN email over the weekend from the Emergency Services Agency carried the subject line: “iSmoke in Apple store”.

THE “ActewAGL Royal Canberra Show” is upon us, but CC’s Weston snout reports there is a view that, according to “Royal protocol”, a commercial name cannot precede the name “Royal” and that it should be the “Royal ActewAGL Canberra Show”. Can anyone confirm this?

WHILE CC usually loathes graffiti, we made an exception for this prophetic Pink Floyd daubing at the abandoned Higgins Primary School from our upper-north shore snout.

POLITICIANS of all persuasions are never slow coming forward to promote themselves, but Opposition Leader Jeremy Hanson’s January “eNewsletter” to the party faithful has broken new ground for local pollies – astonishingly, it contains no photographs of himself, apart from one in the masthead.

“EXCITED and blessed”, Canberra’s singing plumber Vince Gelonese gushes that his single “Every Dream” has climbed to the top of the US “Billboard” Hot Single Sales chart. We love that Vince is “overwhelmed”, but CC just can’t get a handle on how big a deal this chart really is.

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O’Neill’s special discounted cook-your-own steak night, which once drew diners from all over the inner north, is coming back

New publicans promise the same,

ON Christmas Eve, a new team took ownership of O’Neill’s Pub in Dickson but regulars can breathe a sigh of relief –they’re not planning to make any drastic changes to the popular formula, just improve on it.

New owners Richard Lee and Brook Paulka both have many years’ experience in the hospitality game, and learnt the ropes working in some of the busiest bars in Melbourne.

This pair of publicans have spent the last decade working together, most recently at Olim’s Hotel, where Brook was general manager.

“It was great working there and I’m really proud of what we achieved,” he says.

“The owner was really great to work for and we’re still good friends, but it is really exciting – for both of us – to have our own place.”

Between them, the pair know everything there is to know about running a pub, and Brook says it’s a good feeling to finally be in a position to apply his own ideas without the need to seek approval.

“Well, I have to talk things over with Richard of course, and we don’t always see eye-to-eye, but that’s why we’re such a good team,” he says. “We can say exactly what we think to each other.”

Richard brings his old-school bartending skills, including a well-honed ability to mix up cocktails, from classic recipes to his own inventions, and perhaps more importantly, a good sense of humour.

“I know what keeps the punters happy,” he says.

It keeps Brook happy to know his partner is a wizard with tap beer systems and does all the cleaning and maintenance himself, making sure every single beer comes through clean lines from the keg and is poured fresh and cold into a spotless, chilled glass.

One change that’s on the cards for later this year is the addition of TAB facilities to the southern end of the bar room.

“It’s just going to be a little basic TAB along the wall, just so you can enjoy a casual flutter at the same time as having a few drinks with friends,” Brook explains.

They’ve also taken over the bistro, which was previously contracted out, and put classic pub food on the menu.

The pair say their schnitzels and parmigianas might even be bigger than those served by a certain nearby competitor, which takes particular pride in such claims.

The special discounted cook-yourown steak night, which once drew diners from all over the inner north, is coming back in 2014 as well.

“Another change that we’re planning is we’d like to build a wooden deck out the front, but of course that depends on getting the approval,” says Brook.

The main focus for the new owners is to make sure O’Neill’s is a welcoming place where everyone who comes through the doors feels comfortable.

“Tradies can come in at any time, they can be wearing their work boots and their fluoros, and they can stay

Publican partners Brook Paulka and Richard Lee behind the bar at O’Neill’s Pub… The pair say their schnitzels and parmigianas might even be bigger than those served by a certain nearby competitor, which takes particular pride in such claims.

as late as they like,” says Brook. There will be a few deals for uni students and a normal happy hour in the late afternoon aimed at all workers coming in after knocking off.

O’Neill’s, 30-36 Woolley Street, Dickson.

Valentine’s Day

THERE’S not much time left... Friday, February 14 is Valentine’s Day! “CityNews” has a selection of dining options and beauty therapies to get you ready for romance, and a look back at where the day of romance, hearts and flowers began.

EVERY year on February 14, people send cards, flowers, chocolates or gifts to the one they love. But where did this tradition come from?

The history of this centuries-old holiday is a mysterious one, believed to have evolved somewhere between ancient Roman rituals and the customs of Victorian England.

St Valentine himself is quite the elusive figure: the name is shared by several Christian martyrs, but among the popular theories is that he was a third-century priest in Rome, who married young couples in secret after a decree by the Emperor Claudius that young men serve in the army instead of marrying.

Predictably, he was jailed and sentenced to death, but the story goes that he became friendly with his jailer’s daughter, writing the original “Valentines” to her. The letters spoke of his undying love and signed off with “from your Valentine”.

Another theory suggests it may not have been very romantic at all, and that the chosen date may have been an attempt by the Catholic church to “Christianise” a Roman feast: February 14 was, in ancient Rome, a celebration of the goddess Juno, queen of the

Roman pantheon.

The next day, the ides (15th) of February, began the Feast of Lupercalia, which involved blood sacrifices.

The day was first associated with romantic love in the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in the Middle Ages, when the tradition of courtly love flourished.

It was around the 17th century that Valentine’s Day was celebrated on a mass level, and by the middle of the 18th century it was taking on a commercial feel, with small tokens and handwritten gifts being exchanged between lovers and friends.

Over time, the celebration became popular, particularly in 19th-century Britain where cards, often with lace and ribbons, were mass-produced.

Since 1969, when the Roman Catholic Calendar of Saints was revised, the feast day was assigned to local or national calendars, instead of as part of the General Roman Calendar.

Today, Valentine’s Day is the second most important day for sending cards each year, second only to Christmas.

Passionate seven-course dinner

BOFFINS Restaurant and Bar is part of historical University House, and offers elegant, classic dining, says manager Tony Karrys.

“We offer modern Australian a la carte dining in an atmosphere of classic sophistication,” he says. “We have old-style booths for intimate dining and a courtyard outside with a fish pond and wonderful ambience.”

The restaurant is offering a seven-course degustation menu which includes a glass of bubbles on arrival, as well as tea and coffee.

Head chef Anshul Chandna says the meal will feature seasonal choices creating a journey through food.

“The meal will start with a lobster amuse bouche and champagne, pre-entree scallops,

barramundi entree and a main course of beef tenderloin, followed by dessert of chocolate mousse with a creme brulee centre and a gourmet cheese platter,” he says. The seven-course degustation menu costs $89.50 per person, and there are 5.45pm or 7.30pm sittings available. There is also a full seven-course vegetarian option available.

Bookings to 6125 5285. Boffins Restaurant. University House, 1 Balmain Crescent, Acton. The menu is available at anu.edu.au/unihouse

THE comfortable, rustic interior of Cherryripe Brasserie at Watson Shops makes a romantic location to sit down for a special meal with a special someone.

“There is an intimate private function room upstairs which houses up to 12 people sitting around a huge timber table and comfy leather chairs for conferences, dinners and special occasions,” says owner Sue Stone.

“For Valentine’s Day we are running a gorgeous three-course menu with a complimentary glass of champagne for $55 per person.”

Cherryripe opened in September, after the space previously occupied by Carlo’s Cafe was completely transformed through a major refurbishment project. It is licensed and BYO, and open for breakfast and lunch seven days a week, with casual dinner service on four nights.

“The atmosphere is very warm and friendly and our staff provide great, relaxed service,” says Sue.

“The food is of Mediterranean influence, including pastas, beautiful pizzas, steaks and chicken mignons. The seafood and chicken paella is very authentic and the recipe has been handed down through the generations.”

Sue’s philosophy is that food should make you feel happy, and that delicious food need not be intimidating or expensive.

“At Cherryripe Brasserie we only serve the freshest meals in a family friendly environment that feels as comfortable as your own dining table,” she says.

Cherryripe Brasserie. Call 6255 6965 or go to cherryripebrasserie.com.au

For lovers and lovers of seafood

WITH a new internationally renowned chef on board, Cape Cod seafood restaurant in Deakin is the place for seafood fans to spend a romantic Valentine’s Day, says owner Chris Cochrane.

“Our Nepalese chef Ram Pathak is incredibly talented and has put together a delicious six-course menu for this romantic night,” says Chris.

“It’s the first time he’s done a Valentine’s dinner and it’s really an amazing menu.”

There will be Sydney rock oysters, done four different ways, on arrival,

followed by cumin and sesame marinated yellow fin tuna, soft shell tempura crab, herb-crusted salmon and crispy skinned barramundi.

Desserts are for sharing, with caramel slice and passionfruit cream, and a chocolate plate with mixed berry coulis on offer.

“The restaurant creates a beautiful intimate setting, with floating candles, linen tableware and leather seating,” says Chris.

Cape Cod, Shop 5, Deakin shops, Duff Place. Bookings to 6282 8697.

Loving hair extensions

HAIR extensions can create a new look and boost confidence, and the Lovextensions method has an apt name for this romantic time of year, says Catherine Malak, owner of Ravenwaves salon in Crace.

“Lovextensions use the tiniest micro bead, so they are really discreet and natural looking, and they can last for up to two years,” she says. “It’s a more costly method, but perfect for a long-term look.”

Beauty therapist and make-up artist Catherine is also trained in other hair extension methods, and

has been doing them for more than three years.

“I love what I do, and I’m an absolute perfectionist when it comes to extensions,” she says. Catherine is also a distributor for Smiink lash extensions, and does make-up for weddings and formals, using Youngblood Mineral Makeup, which she says is light and allows the skin to breathe.

info@ravenwaves.net

Valentine’s Day / advertising feature

Treatment for everyone

CANBERRA Laser Biotherapy Clinic specialises in laser removal of moles, skin tags, keratosis and many other lesions, says co-founder Sarah Glavinic.

“Our clinic provides treatment of a range of skin and musculoskeletal conditions for all ages,” she says.

Founded by practising GP Dr Nathem Al-Naser and laser biotherapist Sarah Glavinic, they have combined their skills and experience to offer a range of holistic and safe treatments, with no down time, for sufferers of a variety of conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, arthritis, vitiligo, RSI, burns, acne, TMJ, keloid scars, rosacea, sports injuries and alopecia.

Sarah says the clinic provides antiageing treatments, permanent laser hair removal which is fast and effective, and a specialised treatment called Microskin, which can correct the appearance of conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea.

“We also do skin cancer checks, cosmetic injections and PRP, and we have the latest Erbium laser, which resurfaces and rejuvenates the skin leaving it clear, glowing and looking years younger,” she says.

“All of our doctors and laser technicians are highly qualified in their field.”

Canberra Laser Biotherapy Clinic, Shop 103b, ground floor, Belconnen Mall. Call 6251 6884 or email canberralaserbiotherapy@hotmail.com

FOR Valentine’s Day inspiration, visit “the corner that’s got you covered”, on the corner of City Walk and Ainslie Place in Civic, near the fountain.

Owned by local families, the “corner” businesses offer everything from French food (from Ardeche Restaurant), flowers (Embassy Florist), cupcakes (Jazz Apple Café) and teddy bears and other plush gifts (The Teddy Bear Shop).

ESTABLISHED in 1979, Embassy Florist specialises in flower arrangements for all occasions.

Owner Esther Byrne says: “I just love playing with flowers so it’s a joy to come to work everyday!

“Where possible we use locally grown flowers. We have deliveries coming in all the time so our blooms are always really fresh.”

FRENCH/North African restaurant Ardeche is offering a four-course dinner for lovers on Valentine’s Day, with a decadent croquembouche

available for dessert.

Owned by Tahar Lenouar, it is open for lunch and dinner from Monday to Saturday.

JAZZ Apple Café’s cupcakes are baked and decorated locally by an experienced baker. Owned and run by Tracy Buggy, Jazz Apple was established in 2009 and offers an array of cupcakes and made-to-order cakes for any occasion.

“PLAYING with teddy bears all day is a tough job, but somebody has to do it!” says Meg Cutler who, with husband Ian, has owned The Teddy Bear Shop since 2007.

“We also have a great little ‘love-friendly’ corner here with the other businesses.”

Ardeche Restaurant, 6230 4800; Embassy Florist, 6257 3633; The Teddy Bear Shop, 6257 6966 and Jazz Apple Cafe, 6247 0342.

Gail Freeman & Co Pty Ltd

Chartered Accountant

“We have decided to expand our book-selling business, but we’re not sure what to do next.”

That was the challenge Tanya and Rocco set for me during a visit last week.

“Now is the perfect time to examine your strategic plans and focus on your key opportunities for the coming year,” I told them.

“And we have a great tool to use as the starting point –the Mindshop Growth and Profit Solutions Diagnostic. It identifies your top three issues and the strategies you need to put in place to address them.”

“We feel that we are in a vacuum not knowing which way to turn,” Rocco said, agreeing that the couple had been lacking direction.

I told them we would look at things such as selling skills, their market, their team, technology, cash flow and how waste could be reduced.

“From that, we distill the 10 key success factors for your business,” I said. “We then pick out the top three and do intensive work to enhance them. “We have found that the key success factors that frequently come up are profit, your team and sales/marketing. It is particularly important that we identify these issues now so that you do not perpetuate inefficiencies into the future.

“I then follow that up with personal development work. If your business is going well but your personal life is in tatters, it is very hard to run the business effectively.”

Tanya and Rocco nodded in agreement, asking what was included in the personal development sessions?

“We look at such things as quality family time, dealing with negative people in your life, your health, how you handle stress, time management, goal setting, motivation, job satisfaction, exercise, personal relationships, your ability to delegate, intuition and the amount of fun that you have,” I told them.

“Again we distill the 10 key success factors and pick out the top three for some more in-depth work. The key success factors that frequently come up are work/life balance, time management and health.

“Once we have a clear picture and commitment from your team we can then move on to the next stage.

“There are some fairly clear areas such as increasing sales and decreasing expenses and this process enables us to work out how to improve these things. We may then look at strategic plans and other relevant processes, but that depends on the results we get.”

Tanya was excited, keen to start and said she was ready to move on with their expansion. Rocco agreed, saying he couldn’t wait to start the process, too.

If you need help with your business, contact the friendly team at Gail Freeman & Co Pty Ltd.

puzzles page

Joanne Madeline Moore

your week in the stars / February 10-16, 2014

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

Your Valentine’s Day stars encourage impulsiveness in relationships. Some singles will fall in love at first sight – while attached Aries are in the mood for spontaneous displays of affection. Saturday’s fiery Full Moon and Sun/Mars trine are a combustible combination so avoid the temptation to overreact, and blurt out things that you later regret. This week certainly won’t be boring!

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)

With Saturn in your relationship zone, don’t take your partner (or potential partner) for granted. “Love doesn’t just sit there like a stone. It has to be made like bread, remade all the time, made new.” (Ursula Le Guin). You’ve got so much on your professional plate that the last thing you need is domestic drama but that’s what you’ll get on Saturday, when the Full Moon heats up your home zone.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Gregarious Geminis love to chat but you need to stop talking long enough to hear what your partner has to say. So, on Valentine’s Day, heed the wise advice of Paul Tillich: “The first duty of love is to listen.” Singles, you may feel a surprisingly intense attraction to an amorous Aries or a sexy Sagittarian. The weekend is a wonderful time to take an impromptu trip or learn something new.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

Cash-strapped Crabs - avoid going on a spending spree or lending money to others, as you’re liable to make decisions based purely on your emotions (which are fluctuating wildly under this week’s full moonbeams). With Saturn in your romance zone, your quote for Valentine’s Day is from William Barclay: “Love always involves responsibility, and love always involves sacrifice.”

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

This week’s fiery Leo Full Moon boosts your energy levels and gets your creative Cat juices flowing. So strive to be gregarious and generous (rather than pompous and pushy) as you do something special that brings joy to others, and makes your heart sing. Your motto for Valentine’s Day is from French writer George Sand: “There is only one happiness in life; to love and be loved.”

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)

Your days are organised with military precision, as you squeeze every last drop out of the time available. But this week, the Full Moon tosses your timetable out the window and shakes up your usual routine. Romance is in the air on Friday but the energy is behind the scenes, suggesting a private and passionate Valentine’s Day. Singles – amazing signs and synchronicities will lead you to love.

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)

It’s a fabulous week to set goals for the future as the Full Moon highlights your hopes, dreams and wishes zone. But expect the unexpected on Valentine’s Day, when Uranus shakes up relationships. Attached Librans – take your partner for granted at your peril. Singles – your love life continues to be unpredictable, and the person you have your eye on won’t be the one you end up with.

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)

Singles… love and work are linked on Valentine’s Day, so make sure you dress to impress. Attached Scorpios – it’s time to surprise your partner with a night on the town. Saturday’s Full Moon sees you swing between being dramatic and demanding; sexy and secretive; passionate and possessive. You could also be thrust into the public spotlight, hopefully for all the right reasons!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You’re keen to catch up on current news… but resist the urge to be the neighbourhood nosey-parker. If you pass on gratuitous gossip, you could end up in hot water! Plus be extra careful when emailing, texting and tweeting, as it will be very easy to unintentionally send the wrong message to the wrong person! Saturday’s Full Moon sets the stage for a holiday before October.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

With Venus visiting your sign, prepare for a romantic, stylish and sexy Valentine’s Day. But expect dramatic developments involving the big two – sex and money – on the weekend, when the Full Moon stimulates your lust and loot zones. If you’re a clever Capricorn, you’ll resist the urge to control everything and everyone around you. Cool compromise is the smart way to go.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

This Valentine’s Day holds deep significance, as Venus visits your spiritual zone. “Two people who love each other are in a place more holy than a church” (William Lyon Phelps). Saturday’s Full Moon amplifies your unpredictable Aquarian nature, so you’re in the mood to shake up a close relationship. But are you ready for the long-term consequences of your actions?

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Attached Pisceans… this Valentine’s Day, find a dream you can share together. Single Fish… a firm friendship could suddenly turn into a romantic relationship. Saturday’s Full Moon lights up your reflection zone so you’re keen to reminisce about the past, ponder the present and peer into the future. But, if you overdo helping others, you’ll end up overworked and underappreciated.

3 Name a city in Pakistan, near the Khyber Pass

7 Which limestone is much used in sculpture?

8 What is an oblique-angled parallelogram with only the opposite sides equal?

9 What are trotters also known as?

10 Name a particular TV role performed by Raymond Burr

11 What, in heraldry, is a two-legged, winged dragon?

14 What are mental pictures of objects?

17 To be naturally cheerful and hopeful is to be what?

18 Which term designates a servile follower?

19 Name a thin, round, unleavened, baked Mexican cake

20 What is a colloquial term for a sergeant or corporal?

21 That which is accepted as true is what?

1 Name the units of an army which in the past were mounted on horseback

2 Which side of a coin bears the head?

3 What was the nationality of Omar Khayyam?

4 Which word is like another in sound, but different in meaning?

5 Name a US state – and a Gosford suburb

6 Which hinged plates at the sterns of ships are used as a means of steering?

11 What is an essential receptacle of a laundry?

12 Name a less familiar term for “abdominal”

13 What, in poker, is a straight flush?

14 Reykjavik is the capital of which island republic?

15 To depart in a sudden and secret manner is to do what?

16 Name an alternative term for a level of command

arts & entertainment

Dougal Macdonald

Vintage biffo with a few laughs

DiCaprio discovers the need for greed

Leonardo DiCaprio has just won the lead actor award for his title role in Baz Luhrmann’s ‘The Great Gatsby’ from the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts. In an exclusive interview with RICHARD ALDHOUS, the American star talks about his latest role in ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ saying avarice has always been with us.

FIRST we had Gordon Gekko – now it’s time for the real thing. If the generational, iconic flick “Wall Street” was a fictional take on the culture of 1980s American capitalism, its 2014 cousin, “The Wolf of Wall Street”, is set to tell that story like it really is.

Whereas Gekko’s character, though based on a collection of real Wall Street traders, was a caricature of the archetypical 1980s banker, “The Wolf of Wall Street” has an altogether different agenda. For a start, it’s a true story, based on the memoirs of Jordan Belfort, the infamous New York stockbroker sentenced to 22 months in prison in 1998 for stock market manipulation and penny stock boiler room scams. The film is directed by Martin Scorsese and stars Leonardo DiCaprio in the lead role (the fifth such collaboration between the two).

Although Belfort now makes a living by rather more licit means – he is an author and motivational speaker in Los Angeles – the story of how an avaricious man was allowed to thrive in a system that afforded him the chance to commit securities fraud and money laundering for so long is one that is likely to engage even those who perhaps have only a passing interest in the world of trading.

Belfort is now 51 and the picture of serenity – but in his pomp he was the epitome of City power. His rock’n’roll lifestyle of drink and drugs went hand -in- hand with the success of his firm Stratton Oakmont –which issued stocks of more than $1bn and employed more than 1000 brokers – before excess, not to mention the law, caught up with him. That led to his imprisonment and to the repayment of more than $110m to swindled shareholders.

For DiCaprio, playing a man of such greed was never less than a fascinating proposition. The 39- year-old, who was propelled to stardom by his role in 1998 blockbuster

“Titanic”, is no stranger to demanding and controversial real- life roles – his stellar portfolio of work includes portraying FBI director J Edgar Hoover (in “J Edgar”), infamous conman Frank Abagnale (in “Catch Me If You Can”) and eccentric magnate Howard Hughes (in “The Aviator”). But, as a known philanthropist, his view of the world jars with those of many people in the City.

Right as “Titanic” was bringing audiences flocking to cinemas around the world, Belfort was being imprisoned – and DiCaprio believes the excesses that ended up putting the broker behind bars are nothing new.

“Well, let’s be clear, it’s a movie that explores greed and indulgence and the insatiable ability to consume without regard for anything else but your own lust,” he says. “It’s interesting subject matter for me, and very pertinent to something I am fascinated by – human nature. I keep talking about greed all the time, but the more I talk about it the more I realise that there’s an inherent survival characteristic for everything on earth to consume and survive.

“What is so fascinating about this is that we’re supposed to be an evolved species that is at least attempting to live harmoniously together and make the world a better place. But greed is incredibly prevalent, and just as rampant as it always was.”

Sohe wouldn’t say greed was a modern issue? “No. It happened before civilisation,” he laughs, “I’m not judging it – and please don’t think I am – but it’s an inherent characteristic of society.

“I did an environmental documentary called ‘The Eleventh Hour’, in which we interviewed a prominent scientist. He turned the whole thing round, and I was like, ‘Wow, I never thought that greed and opportunism are some of the key characteristics to life and survival’. Ultimately, there’s no organism that wouldn’t wipe out another

just to be able to survive.”

As ever, DiCaprio prepared for the role with meticulous detail. That portrayal of real life and, with it, an intricate intensity of characterisation, has become something of a trademark for the California- born star.

“It wasn’t really until I looked back at the last three movies I’d done that I saw a really prevalent theme there,” he says. “I don’t ever question why I gravitate towards things, but obviously it was something that was percolating around me. Through those three characters, I realised: ‘Wow, I am playing incredibly powerful men that have a lust for wealth at different eras in American history.’

“It didn’t really occur to me, because I just sort of say, ‘I want to play this character, I have to do this,’ and I never questioned it. So when it came to ‘Gatsby’ [DiCaprio starred in the title role in the gaudy Baz Luhrmann adaptation of iconic F Scott Fitzgerald’s novel ‘The Great Gatsby’ in 2013], this was a guy who did it for love and created a fortune in the underworld. Now compare that to Belfort – this is a guy who, in the modern era, is doing the same thing and it’s all thematically linked with greed, so it’s prevalent in my mind.”

To build a greater understanding of both his subject and the financial district itself, DiCaprio went straight to Wall Street to get a handle on its culture and practices.

“I spent a long time on Wall Street and met a lot of these guys. What was funny, and

so ironic, was that we were making a movie about the debauchery of Wall Street but 80 per cent of the guys I talked to said the reason they got into the world of finance was to try to be like Gordon Gekko in ‘Wall Street’. And I was like: ‘Well, wasn’t that a cautionary tale of what not to do? I don’t understand that’,” he laughs. “And they said: ‘No man, we wanted to be like him; we wanted that life.’ And so did Jordan Belfort. For some of these people, it seems to be like an addiction, like a drug. For a lot of these guys, it was like their cocaine – and they would never stop.”

Butwhat of the film itself? There are many ways in which its subject matter could be broached, so how does DiCaprio assess it?

“I’d describe it as a dark comedy. It definitely has comedic elements but, when Martin Scorsese directs a movie, it’s not just one thing. I asked him about ‘Goodfellas’, which I think is one of everyone’s favourite movies, and he said: ‘I meant that to be a comedy.’ I said: ‘Really?’ And he said: ‘Yeah, I was surrounded by that my whole life, and it’s hilarious to me.’ As far as this movie goes, I keep describing it as a modern day ‘Caligula’ but full of unregulated debauchery and American history, although it could be global banking history.

“It’s a movie about the systematic shutdown of our economy as a result of Jordan Belfort.”

One problem DiCaprio couldn’t escape was the City gent preconception – the swirl of negative public opinion that surrounds bankers, brokers and any members of the financial sector. It is a problem the actor acknowledges, although he doesn’t believe the subject matter will have a negative effect on the film’s success. In fact, he sees the jaded perception of the financial world as a positive.

“Like I said, Wall Street is very tough subject matter to put in the title; people have a distaste for those in the world of finance and it’s not like you hear the words ‘Wall Street’ and will want to go rushing to the theatres. But ultimately, to me, it’s not necessarily about Wall Street – it’s about this corrupted version of the American dream, the global dream. It’s about the corruption of people who have these influences and who ultimately, at any cost, want to live that dream.”

Does DiCaprio sympathise with the man in the street, who sees the banking system as corrupt and out of control?

“I think I do, ultimately,” he admits. “Look at what has happened to our economy –everyone has the right and should speak about it openly, and this is what happens when, like I said before – this is a microcosm of a much bigger story. There are people out there, even now, who are pulling off much bigger heists and manipulations of our economy, and are getting away with a lot more. Belfort, ultimately, is a minnow. There are whales out there who have decimated our economy for billions and billions of dollars.

“It’s an unregulated society and structure where people aren’t watched over, and don’t need to pay the price for their actions. And this is a cycle that I feel keeps repeating in this country and in others – you have to reinvent, so to speak, our entire financial institutions because there is one loophole and then everything gets funnelled into that, and people go overboard. It happened in the 1930s… it happened back then and it just happened recently. There needs to be a reset button.”

It seems DiCaprio’s mind is made up, but then he offers a closing gambit that reveals his now more nuanced perspective.

He says he enjoyed the company of Jordan Belfort when he met him while conducting his research, and that he thus became rather engaged with an industry that he wanted to dislike.

“I actually liked spending time in his world and with him, because he’s so candid,” DiCaprio explains. “Is he apologetic about his crimes? He’s apologetic in the sense that I think he regrets what he did, for sure. He took advantage of a lot of people, and he’s sorry for the way he treated those he loved in his life, but I commend him for trying to do something positive with it now.

“And it’s easy to see how he ended up embracing the madness of the industry. I could smell the passion, the excitement and the thrill in my research. And it was addictive. I did respect that.”

“The Wolf of Wall Street” is in cinemas now. A version of this article first appeared in “Square Mile” magazine, the leading luxury lifestyle publication for the City of London. See

‘Blue Jasmine’ winners

WINNERS of the 10 DVDs of Woody Allen’s movies “Blue Jasmine” are: Alison Kendal, of Kingston; Michael McKenna, Wanniassa; Patrick Carr, Uriarra Village; Michael Doherty, Fraser; Sharon Witosz, Kambah; Marnie Pascoe, Pearce; Ljubica Siljanovska, Kingston; Bernadette Rayner, Dunlop; Teri Papadopoulos, Gordon and Jimmy Hafesjee, Florey.

arts & entertainment

Artist’s peaceful, easy feeling

Helen Musa arts editor

ARNOLD Williams is that rare kind of artist who seems totally comfortable within his own skin.

He’s lucky. His father, Jimmy or “Boze” Williams is one of Queanbeyan’s most sought-after artists, known for his dot-paintings that feature Bogong moths. His aunt is Ngambri elder and artist, Matilda House. His mother, Cheryl, is a Wiradjuri woman from whose land he claims his ancestry. Both his grandfather and great-uncle were artists, too.

Right now, the 33-year-old Williams is holding a one-man show at Strathnairn Gallery in Holt. It’s a big step for the quietly-spoken artist who has, to date, preferred to give his paintings away to his son’s school or to “people who will look after them”.

Persuaded in 2013 to enter a work in the Queanbeyan City Council Regional Art Awards, he carried off the Indigenous Artist Award, with judge Anita McIntyre praising his work as “beautifully executed”.

Encouraged by McIntyre, who is also the chair of Strathnairn Arts, Williams took three months off from his job as a house painter and threw himself into his art. The result is “My Country –Wiradjuri”, a significant solo show that looks set to sell out.

“CityNews” caught up with McIntyre and co-curator Carolyn Fitzpatrick as they were hanging the show, oohing and aahing over the fine

dot-paintings of honey ants, witchetty grubs and fish, while admiring several new highly original works based on tree-carvings found on Williams’ home country near Peak Hill.

Later after a dash to Theodore, we found Williams relaxing under the air-conditioning on a scorching day with his partner of 20 years, Danielle, and their seven-year-old son Maliyan, (“eagle” in Ngunnawal).

Born in Canberra but raised in Peak Hill until age 12 when he was schooled in Queanbeyan for a time, Williams gets over to his maternal country as often as possible.

As a child he was taught the ancient art of hunting for goanna, turtle, wild duck and witchetty grubs by his grandfather, the dominant influence in the family, who fuelled the imagination of the young Williams.

It was a uniquely happy childhood.

“I didn’t know what racism was until I came back to Canberra,” he says, “I didn’t even know what an ‘Abo’ was when they called me one… I wasn’t angry, I just didn’t understand.”

To-ing and fro-ing between Peak Hill and Queanbeyan, he considers himself to have enjoyed “the best of both worlds… freedom gives you respect”.

In his view many over-urbanised children are estranged from their culture – “this is why a lot of kids are arrogant”. He doesn’t drink, and embraces a quiet lifestyle that gives him space to paint.

Williams’ sense of his Wiradjuri ancestry informs his art. Though not formally trained in art school, he spent some time in Papunya, NT, the home of dot painting to learn from the “old school” of elderly women who have mastered the art. Once they got him to dig a deep hole to find honey ants, now the subject of his finest works.

Although heavily influenced by dot painting, he follows his own instinct in using the colours of nature.

In an unusual decision, his whole family chipped in to buy the old mission on the river about 20 km from Peak Hill as a family retreat. Here he finds time to paint and introduce his son to bush culture.

There he and his family spotted several priceless burial tree-trunks that they are endeavouring to preserve and nine or 10 of the tree carvings that now form part of his art.

Though not conventionally ambitious, Williams would now like to devote more of his time to painting, especially in Wiradjuri land.

“It’s more peaceful there,” he says.

“My Country – Wiradjuri,” paintings by Arnold Williams, Strathnairn Arts, 90 Stockdill Drive, Holt, until February 16.

arts & entertainment

Judi bowls the Bald Archy over with her ‘Wrecking Balls’

A CARICATURIST, illustrator and painter from Newcastle has won this year’s $10,000 Bald Archy Prize for her portrait of cricketer Mitchell Johnson in a Miley Cyrus pose on top of a huge cricket ball. Judi Nadin, who also won the 2010 Bald Archy for her portrait of a nude Bert Newton, took the award for her portrait “Wrecking Balls (Ashes to Ashes)”.

The 2014 Bald Archy Prize exhibition, Watson Arts Centre, Aspinall Street, until March 2. Entry $4.

THE monthly “Poetry at the Gods” sessions at The Gods Café/Bar in the ANU Arts Centre are

Helen Musa arts in the city

getting off to a lively start with one Les Murray session on February 11 already sold out and a second one scheduled for Wednesday, February 12, 7.30 for 8pm. Bookings to thegodscafe@ gmail.com or 6248 5538.

THE Canberra International Music Festival has a new general manager in pianist Kathleen Grant, described by director Chris Latham as “a very experienced arts administrator”. The appoint-

ment was made possible by the festival’s recent ascent to the ranks of “Key Arts Organisation” with the Australia Council.

FURTHER to our recent report of Bea Brickhill’s departure from Creative Partnerships Australia, an email has arrived from the CEO in Sydney, Fiona Menzies, telling us that, “based on our new organisational needs”, the ACT branch will now be closed and operate out of Sydney. Offices in SA and Tasmania will also close. ArtsACT placed stress upon the need for an ACT office and was regularly funding the organisation.

Vintage biffo with a few laughs

I CAN’T remember when last I journeyed to Tuggeranong to see new movies in Limelight cinema, which on January 30 offered – whether by intention or coincidence – two movies about sporting rivalries.

“Grudge Match” (M)

IN his early 70s, Robert De Niro – who won an Oscar for Jake La Motta in “Raging Bull” – plays Billy “the Kid” McDonnen who 30 years earlier had both won and lost light heavyweight fights against Henry “Razor” Sharp (Sylvester Stallone, now 67, who played Rocky Balboa).

Since that second bout, the Kid and Razor, nurturing mutual hatred and resentment, haven’t settled who was the greater boxer. Then motormouthed promoter Dante (Kevin Hart) gets to work on arranging a nostalgia bout to settle the matter.

These characters and situations segue into a film combining humour with pugilism and a back story involving Sally (Kim Basinger, at 60 looking about half that age) who was Razor’s girl back when. The result of Sally’s one-night stand with the Kid was a son, who now offers to train his father and whose own son is a cute kid such as decorates many films in which family performs a leavening role.

‘Past’ with a big future

“The Past” (PG)

OF the seven feature films made by Iranian film-maker Asghar Fahardi since his 2000 debut, it’s been Australia’s misfortune to have seen only one other than this.

The multi-award-winning “A Separation” dissected a relationship confronting a hideously difficult choice. “The Past” also deals with relationships, using a screenplay of wondrous complexity that time and again approaches what seems to be resolution only to peel back a fresh issue to reveal a further stone paving the road to ultimate resolution. Predictability has no place in this film. After returning to Iran four years previously, Ahmad (Ali Mosaffa) arrives in Paris where his wife Marie (Bérénice Bejo) wants a divorce so she can marry Samir (Tahar Rahim). Their teenaged daughter Lucie (Pauline Burlet) refuses to come to Marie’s house if Samir is going to be there. Which is a shame, because their younger daughter has developed a good relationship with Faoud (Elyes Agouis), Samir’s son out of Céline who for nearly a year has lain comatose in a Paris hospital.

Dougal Macdonald

Also along is Alan Arkin, doing his wellpolished grumpy old man as Razor’s trainer.

Writer Tim Kelleher assembles the components of “Grudge Match” into a low-key drama that, between laughs, polarises our attitudes about which of the contestants we hope to see winning its ultimate bout.

At Limelight and Hoyts

“Backyard Ashes” (M)

WAGGA Wagga City Council deserves modest commendation for its support for this simple tale of workmates and their families whose weekend entertainment is barbies and cricket in Dougie Walters’ (Andrew S. Gilbert) backyard.

Dougie provides basic infrastructure including a barbie with an after-market turbo-charger that will, in time, lead to the unintentional creation of a jar of ashes. And the blokes have developed complex local rules to fit their cricket to the ground’s unique characteristics.

A team arrives to sharpen company performance. Their leader Edward Lords (Felix Williamson), a Pom with an Errol Flynn (remember

him?) moustache, plummy diction and tickets on himself, plays cricket, as do his minions. And he buys the house next to Dougie’s. His prize cat, more loved than his charming wife, takes to sunning itself on top of Dougie’s barbie. Remember, the turbo-charged one that starts at the touch of a button? When it comes to a grudge match between workers and management, there has to be a trophy, after all.

Writer/director Mark Grentell’s first film is good fun and rather courageous. While the screenplay lacks polish, the cast of professionals and amateur locals do their best with it. I don’t expect they got paid a lot. Unpaid was the yellow tennis ball that plays a pivotal role in the games. Getting a tennis ball to perform in a particular way is not easy.

According to Don Groves in Permalink, “The release plan rules out booking the film into any capital city and the distributor is doing its best to keep it away from critics, perhaps fearing reviews that might raise the spectre of cricket-themed misfire ‘Save Your Legs’!”

I don’t know how the Tuggeranong community feels about that back-handed compliment. Last time I looked, Tuggers was part of Canberra which is still a capital city. And I’m a reviewer, not a critic!

At Limelight

There we have the film’s principal characters whose paths, in 120 minutes of beautifully crafted cinema, will intersect amid conflict, heartbreak, anger, compassion, lies, confusion and grief.

Most Iranian films seen in Australia have come under the aegis of the Sydney Film Festival. It’s been my good fortune to have seen many of them. And they have all been wonderful. Fahardi made “The Past” in Paris. He speaks no French. Quite a guy.

You consider yourself a cineaste? Then this one must be on your short-term bucket list.

At Palace Electric

TREVOR Dunbar, director of the Canberra Grammar School Gallery, has come up with a quirky exhibition to start the year. Titled “Object ‘da”, the show, he tells us, celebrates the aesthetic value of a range of objects, some culturally specific, ranging from high kitsch to the genuine art object. “There are many engaging themes from ‘Aboriginalia’ through to crucifixes and popular arts”. At CGS Gallery, 40 Monaro Crescent, Red Hill, from this weekend until February 28, weekdays 10am to 4pm and Saturdays 11am to 4pm.

By Neil Somerville

WELCOME to the Year of the Horse – a year favouring action and growth, that begins on January 31.

A lot is set to happen, and with much at a fast pace, but how will you fare over the next 12 months?

To find your sign and prospects, look up the animal ruling your year of birth. As each Chinese year begins late in January or early February, if you were born around this time check the actual year dates to find out which sign you were born under.

Rat

1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008

OUTGOING, sociable and with many interests, Rats make popular company.

They are great communicators, good at spotting opportunities and are highly resourceful. Rats particularly value family and social life.

A mixed year, but one that offers far-reaching benefits. In 2014, Rats will need to keep alert and take careful note of all that is going on around. To be too independent or take risks could bring difficulty.

In home and social life, Rats should be attentive and give time to others, being willing to share plans and activities. Joint activities are particularly favoured this year. In view of costly purchases, spending needs to be watched and risks avoided. In work, Rats could face considerable pressures but with situations allowing many to demonstrate and gain new skills.

March, September and November could see important developments, with progress well-deserved. A demanding year with its lessons and experiences bringing something positive that can be built on and put to later advantage.

Tip for the year: Rise to the challenges of the year and show strengths and resourcefulness. What is gained can have considerable future value.

Famous Rats: Hugh Grant, Sean Penn, Samuel L. Jackson and the Prince of Wales.

Ox1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009

OXEN have great strength of character. They are thorough, hard working and do not like to leave things to chance. Loyal to loved ones, Oxen are admired for their dependable, no-nonsense ways.

An interesting year ahead. Oxen may not always be comfortable with the pace of developments, but there will be excellent chances to pursue.

In work, good progress is indicated and, whether

astrology Your Year of the Horse

through promotion or seeking a position elsewhere, by looking to advance, important headway can be made. March, April and September could be favourable months. Progress can help financially, but important transactions need to be carefully considered and terms thoroughly checked.

With a busy lifestyle, Oxen should give thought to wellbeing, setting time aside for interests and to unwind. Home life can see some successes and many plans going ahead, although activities need to be spread throughout the year.

Oxen should also keep in regular contact with friends, going to social occasions that appeal. Again, this can help them achieve that all-important lifestyle balance.

Tip for the year: Give attention to self, loved ones and personal interests. All can help and sometimes in unexpected ways.

Famous Oxen: Barack Obama, Meryl Streep, Bruce Springsteen and Keira Knightley.

Tiger

1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010

BORN under the sign of courage, Tigers set about much with great energy and zest. With wide interests, they have an inventive mind and are good at coming up with ideas. Tigers enjoy company and an active lifestyle.

A year of scope and possibility. With the Tiger’s enthusiasm and enterprise much can be accomplished and many plans usefully advanced. In work, new opportunities will allow Tigers to put their strengths to good use, with the chance to progress and take on new responsibilities. February, April and September could see encouraging developments. Personal interests are favoured, with ideas and new activities progressing well. Finances can see improvement with major plans advanced and useful purchases enjoyed.

At home, Tigers will be keen to proceed with many ideas, but these need to be carefully thought through and discussed. Again much is possible and with decisions and actions bringing important domestic benefits. Social life can see much activity and, for the unattached, romantic prospects are good.

Tip for the year: This is an encouraging year. Seize the initiative, act determinedly and make things happen.

Famous Tigers: The Queen, Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio and Demi Moore.

Rabbit

1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011

RABBITS have a quiet, easygoing manner. They enjoy company and conversation as well as appreciating the finer things in life. Rabbits are observant and careful and good at judging situations. Their views and advice are often highly valued.

A busy and satisfying year. Rabbits attach great importance to relations with others, with much happening domestically and socially.

In home life, shared activities can go well, with useful plans and home improvements carried through. Rabbits will also meet many new people this year, with some important friendships and connections being made. March, August and October could see much social opportunity.

Personal interests are also favoured, with ideas worth developing. In work, pressures may be considerable, but opportunities can arise suddenly and need to be acted upon before chance is lost. Some may also seek change, with new skills acquired widening options for later. With many outgoings, finances need good control.

Tip for the year: Make the most of personal skills. By networking, meeting others and enjoying positive relations with many, much good can come and pleasing times be had.

Famous Rabbits: Johnny Depp, Kate Winslet and Brad Pitt.

Dragon

1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012

BORN under the sign of luck, Dragons are active, ambitious and determined. They have great style and use their strengths and personality well, but also value their independence. An active and encouraging year although, to make the most of it, Dragons should avoid spreading energies too widely or taking unnecessary risks. Also, by joining with others and building support, rather than acting too independently, more will be achieved. Domestically, a busy year with much to enjoy and deal with. Practical projects rewarding but time consuming. Social prospects are good and while there will be many occasions to enjoy, Dragons should be careful of rumour and follow up anything that concerns. Dialogue and openness is very important this year.

In work, good opportunities for advance, with new duties taken on helping prospects. March, July and October could see interesting developments. Dragons could be fortunate in money matters and make useful purchases for self and home, but should avoid unnecessary risk. A favourable year but one to be careful and aware.

Tip for the year: Watch independent tendencies. Plan and think through approaches and get support. Over the year much is possible.

Famous Dragons: Russell Crowe, Keanu Reeves, Reese Witherspoon, and George Clooney.

Snake

1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013

SNAKES may seem quiet and reserved, but are watchful, alert and ambitious. They are also patient and choose their time and moments well. Snakes have wide interests and are loyal to those close to them.

Snakes may not always feel comfortable with the demands or fast pace of the Horse year but, with care, can make good progress.

In work, chances can arise suddenly and, by being quick and willing to learn and adjust, important headway made. May, October and November could be significant months. Finances can see improvement, although important transactions should not be rushed. Also, making provision for a holiday could be appreciated, with a break doing Snakes much good. Ideas and personal interests can develop well and with attention to self and well-being helpful. When in company, Snakes need to be attentive. Lapses or preoccupation could cause difficulty but, while care is advised, home and social life can bring many appreciated occasions, with shared activities favoured. A demanding year, but with good chances arising.

Tip for the year: Make the most of ideas and emerging situations. Opportunities pursued can develop in encouraging ways.

Famous Snakes: JK Rowling, Paul Simon, Oprah Winfrey and Bob Dylan.

Horse

1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014

STRONG-willed and hardworking, Horses have a keen and adventurous nature. Although they may value their independence, Horses are sociable, outgoing and make interesting and well-informed speakers. They enjoy a wide range of interests.

Horses will be keen to make their own year special and, with care, they can. However, throughout these busy 12 months, Horses should avoid acting in too much haste or taking unnecessary risks. Without thinking actions through, disappointments could follow.

Work prospects are favoured, with many taking on greater responsibilities in an often different capacity. April, June and September could see encouraging developments. Improved income will enable important plans and purchases to go ahead, with travel tempting many. Interests can also develop well, with more attention to self and lifestyle beneficial.

Home life will be busy and, with much happening, there needs to be good communication and flexibility over some arrangements. Horses will also see their social circle widening, with a good mix of occasions to enjoy. Tip for the year: Avoid rushing and be prepared to consult and draw on the support of those around. This can be a great year but remain aware and mindful. Famous Horses: Paul McCartney, Barbra Streisand, Billy Connoll and John Travolta.

Goat

1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003,

BORN under the sign of art, Goats are creative, observant and have a genial, easygoing manner. They get on well with many and value support for the things they do. Goats also appreciate the good things in life, attaching much importance to their home and social life.

A promising year although, to make the most of it, Goats will need to be active and involved. To hold back or wait for the right moment could mean good opportunities are missed.

In work, encouraging advances can be made, with many taking on a new role. Skills gained and ideas followed up can develop well with March, June and September favourable months.

With an active lifestyle, spending needs to be closely watched. Goats will also welcome the opportunity to meet many new friends and contacts this year. For the unattached, significant romance is possible. Home life active but, with many hopes and plans, there needs to be good co-operation and organisation. Personal interests can be satisfying and develop well. Tip for the year: Remain determined. With resolve and good support some well-deserved successes can be enjoyed.

Chinese horoscope

Monkey

1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004

RESOURCEFUL and good at spotting opportunities, Monkeys like to keep active and are interested in much. They have good memories and, with their sense of fun, enjoy company, conversation, and an often busy home and social life.

A rewarding year, although Monkeys should be wary of too much rush or risk. Also, to help prospects, they would find it better to join with others and get support, rather than setting about their activities in their own individual way. In work, important possibilities can open up with a chance to take on new and different duties. By adapting and learning, what is accomplished can increase the scope for later. With good travel possibilities and expensive home plans, Monkeys need to watch spending.

Quality time with loved ones will also be appreciated and, in home life, by tackling undertakings jointly much can be accomplished. Social life can bring considerable pleasure with April, June and December seeing some lively occasions. Some met over the year can provide useful assistance.

Tip for the year: Seek support and adapt as situations require. With good use of skills and time, a lot can be achieved.

Famous Monkeys: Kylie Minogue, Daniel Craig, Tom Hanks and Jennifer Aniston.

Rooster

1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005

ALERT, careful and methodical, Roosters like to plan ahead, and use their time and abilities well. They have style and presence and care deeply for loved ones. Roosters keep well informed and enjoy conversation.

A year of fine possibility. In work, some ideal opportunities can arise and with new and greater positions indicated. A good year to widen skills or, if unfulfilled, consider a job change. While prospects are encouraging, Roosters will need to be mindful of colleagues and office politics. Rumour or jealousy may concern. Care is also required in finance, with terms of new agreements thoroughly checked. With good communication and co-operation, many home plans can be advanced. May, September and October could be interesting months, bringing much social activity. Personal interests can develop well, giving Roosters a chance to enjoy and add to skills. Again new interests could tempt. Overall a satisfying year although, throughout, Roosters need to be mindful of those around.

Tip for the year: Act well on chances and plans. Good headway can be made, but take note of viewpoints and developing situations.

Famous Roosters: Duchess of Cambridge, Beyoncé, Britney Spears and Cate Blanchett.

Dog

1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006

LOYAL and caring, Dogs are direct and straightforward, and prepared to stand up for what they want and believe in. With their desire to do right, Dogs take their commitments seriously, and are hard-working, dependable and much respected. A favourable year, with some surprises in store. Although Dogs are by nature cautious, many will sense luck is on their side this year and it is! Plans should be advanced, with helpful chances arising. Social life will see a considerable increase in activity, with interesting occasions to enjoy. April to early June and December could be special months. Romantic prospects are excellent. Dogs will also do much to help family members, with their care, ideas and organisational abilities appreciated. Finances can improve but, with expensive plans and good travel chances, spending needs good control. In work, Dogs can benefit from arising chances but should be quick to act on those that interest. A year favouring the active and enterprising.

Tip for the year: Make the most of strengths and chances. Many positive developments can follow on from actions now taken.

Famous Dogs: Duke of Cambridge, Madonna, Jennifer Lopez and Mariah Carey.

SCULPTURE GARDEN RESTAURANT

Pig

1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007

KINDLY and trusting, Pigs enjoy good relations with many. They also like their pleasures, but work hard and use their strengths and opportunities well. Home life is also very special to Pigs. A year of good chance and with determination, and some helpful developments, important headway can be made. In much, their positive relations with many will help, with family, friends and colleagues assisting in many ways. Throughout the year, Pigs should draw on support available as well as using chances to network and raise their profile. Their efforts can impress. Social life will bring Pigs into contact with many and for the unattached romantic prospects are promising.

Domestically an eventful year, with good news to celebrate in many Pig households. In work, changes taking place will give a chance to progress with February, March and September seeing encouraging developments. Income may improve, but spending needs watching and informal agreements with others avoided.

Tip for the year: With many competing demands, use time well and aim for a good lifestyle balance.

Famous Pigs: Elton John, Simon Cowell, Steven Spielberg and Woody Allen.

Copyright©2014 N. Somerville.

garden Hardy evergreen that loves hot weather

THE Escallonia bifida is an extremely hardy evergreen shrub flowering in summer/early autumn.

Its synonymous name, E. montevidensis, gives a clue to its origin in South America and it was awarded the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society’s “Award of Garden” in 1915.

As an example of its hardiness, the specimen pictured in our garden was about 4.5m tall until we did an extension. Then it had to be severely pruned back to 2m tall, ending up with no leaves, just bare branches.

Within six months it was in full leaf and flower, as seen here.

There are more than 50 varieties of Escallonia grown, although some are harder to find than others. Most gardeners are familiar with Escallonia.

“Hedge with an Edge”, a low-growing, pink-flowered shrub, ideal for bordering paths. This is also sold under E. “Pink Pixie”. Look out for the range of Escallonia with the first part of the name “Donard”. All these are pink flowering and, as with all Escallonia, are evergreen. They make an excellent clipped hedge or just a specimen accent plant. Check out your local garden centre for other varieties.

Being from South America, dry weather does not worry them.

YEARS ago I recommended pine needles as mulch. It is particularly beneficial when the loose needles on top are scraped back to use the composting needles underneath. Then the 2003 fires came and most of the pine forests went. However, there are still pockets of pine trees in the suburbs and this mulch is free. It can be used as is or

WINNERS

‘12 Years a Slave’

WINNERS of the 10 double passes to see “12 Years a Slave” are:

Jacqueline Lamont, of Wanniassa; Wendy Virtue, Forde; Louise Frewin, Kambah; Elizabeth Coleman, Rivett; Barbara Rumball, Fadden; Kerry Blackburn, Monash; Lynne Sydney, Bruce; Colin Macdonald, Kaleen; Lauren Johnston, Aranda and Wendy Hirst, Kaleen.

shredded, say with the mower, for a finer mulch, ie on the tops of pots. Pine needles are perfect for acid-loving plants such as daphne, rhododendron, azaleas and all Aussie plants.

THE long-held idea of not planting roses where they have been planted previously has now been turned on its head in the UK’s Royal Horticultural Society’s latest edition of “The Garden”. Colin Crosbie, curator of the

RHS Garden at Wisley, reports that “this is no longer held as a universal truth, but what has endured as the most important factor is good soil. Improving it with the addition of well-rotted farmyard manure or garden compost is the start.”

Crosbie goes on to say that thoughts on planting depths have also changed. Most of us were taught to plant roses with the bud graft union at level with, or slightly above,

Glenbog Nursery and Landscaping

the surrounding soil level.

Nowadays, best practice is to plant with the graft union buried a few centimetres below the surrounding soil level, as this will reduce “wind rock”, particularly in windy areas as is the case in Canberra and especially in new, exposed areas.

This news may help influence new plantings or replacing roses when the new stock arrives in winter.

The Canberra

• growers of drought tolerant and frost resistant plants

glenbog@skymesh.com.au

THE most effective way to water plants is by drip irrigation – used by home gardeners, orchardists and vineyards. Like human arteries, carrying water by drip line is the lifeblood of the plant. Also like arteries, if blocked, the plant will be starved of water and could die.

This photo clearly illustrates what can happen, in this case in our garden, where a kink in the

• Do not let container-grown camellias dry out as they are now forming buds for next year.

• Stop tomatoes after four fruit trusses have set; more will possibly not ripen in time.

line meant no water was getting to the plants. It is essential to ensure drip lines are on top of the soil and under the mulch. This may mean lifting drip lines if buried in soil and at the same time checking there are no kinks or breaks in the line. I suggest this as a matter of urgency as this month is predicted to be just as hot as January.

• Keep feeding container plants with high potassium, such as tomato food, for continuous flowering.

• Trim lavender to remove old flower spikes just into the old wood.