Chaos to get those corpuscles racing ROBERT MACKLIN
In defence of human cogs JOHN GRIFFITHS
Family to the fore on the foreshore WENDY JOHNSON
KATHRYN VUKOVLJAK is transfixed by Angie Clairvoyant
Bankstown
Bankstown Central, Bass Hill, Batemans Bay, Belconnen, Birkenhead Point, Blair Athol, Bondi Junction, Bonnyrigg, Bowral, Canberra Centre, Canterbury, Carnes Hill, Chisholm, Chullora, Conder, Cooma, Dapto, Eastlakes, Edgecliff, Engadine, Fairfield Central, Fairfield West, Fairy Meadow, Glenfield Park, Goulburn, Gungahlin, Holt (Kippax), Hurstville, Kogarah, Lakemba, Leichhardt, Liverpool Plaza, Liverpool, Macquarie Fields, Macquarie,
Annan, North Strathfield, Nowra,
The secrets Angie ‘sees’
ANGIE Clairvoyant is compelled to give people messages. She once stopped a man at the supermarket to tell him his late wife had said it was okay for him to move on with someone new.
“He was absolutely floored. I have to tell people what I see if I think it will help them,” she says. “Even if I’m doing the groceries.”
Supermarket guy later called Angie to tell her he was now happily engaged, and that she had hit the nail on the head with her sudden insight in the cheese aisle.
“This sort of thing happens to me all the time,” she says. “But I’m just the messenger, I pass on what I’m told. I’m still amazed that it happens to be accurate and right.”
Angie has been on Canberra’s airwaves for eight years, and has just started on talkback radio at 2CC, 9am-10am, on Saturday mornings.
“It’s where I feel I should always have been, and I feel at home there,” she says. “It’s good to try something a bit different; this is talkback, so people can call me and say what they want to say. And when they call, another voice usually pops up with a message for them.”
Angie wastes no time turning her powers on “CityNews” as we take a seat in her home office full of mystical things.
“When I have sceptics come to me or challenge me, I deal with it by freaking them out,” she says.
“But first I always tell them to be careful what they ask for, because I’m not shy at coming forward with something they might not want to hear.”
Noted. And sure enough, before we can go on with the interview, Angie says she has some things to tell me. She says my glasses are the wrong prescription (yes!), that I’m overworked and underpaid (of course!) and that my husband may join the police force (unlikely). Two out of three’s not bad, but not particularly hard to pick.
Before I know it, an hour has passed, the next hopeful client is ringing the doorbell and I’m feeling somewhat blindsided by a number of accurate insights and messages from beyond the grave that Angie could not possibly have known about or googled,
and I’m not quite sure how she did it.
“I don’t like to call it psychic, and at first I didn’t even want to say clairvoyant,” she says. “My kids have copped some flak over the years, you know, things like ‘stay away from the witch’s house’.
“But this is my calling, I love it. I’ve learned to hold my head high and walk my walk. I don’t feel I have to prove anything anymore. I must be doing something right, as I get so much repeat business.”
Angie says her abilities started when she was 24, following a near-death experience in 1983.
“It was after a small minor op, where I ended up in a coma,” she says.
“At the time I was working at a photo processing shop, and when I recovered and got back to work I started seeing things in the photos. Pretty soon I had people lining up around the block asking me to look at their photos and read for them.
“I was scared at first, I didn’t recognise it. I thought maybe everyone had these experiences soon after a coma, but then I realised that no one else could see what I was seeing, and I freaked out.
“Unfortunately, my boss had to let me go after that, all these people kept coming in but not to have photos printed!”
Angie admits she can’t read for herself, and that even when her now-husband came to her for a reading, she didn’t know they’d get together.
“I told him he’d marry a dark-haired girl, but I had no idea it was me,” she says – now sporting a new silver crop.
“We did have a weird experience though, when we started dating he invited me round to his place but he was locked out. He was mortified but I had a feeling my key would open his door and it did. Then we took his key and went to see if it would work on my door, and the same thing happened. The locksmith said it’s incredibly rare, and that you’d have to be psychic to find something like that out! Six months later we were married.”
Angie says that while she loves the career that “chose” her, the constant messages can be exhausting and disturbing.
“I have to be able to switch it off, or my mind would never rest,” she says. “When I go on holiday I tell people I’m a waitress.”
Rotta,
Kathryn Vukovljak reports
Angie Clairvoyant... “When I have sceptics come to me or challenge me, I deal with it by freaking them out.”
Photo by Gary Schafer
Chaos to get those corpuscles racing
NOTHING like a dash of chaos to get those red corpuscles racing on these cold winter days. And this week we had tumult aplenty. In the Big House Tony and Clive faced off; Clive confused everybody, including his own Senate leader, Glenn Lazarus the former “brick with eyes” now risen from the sporting dead. Tony just fumed.
And all over the repeal of the sensible carbon tax in which they were both in furious agreement! Mind you, with Eric Abetz running a “charm offensive” with the cross benchers almost anything could happen (and probably will).
CANBERRA attracted its share of the pandemonium with more calls for the dispersal of public servants to the four corners of the nation, the latest from Tasmanian MP Andrew Wilkie . He went further and demanded the city be stripped of its raison d’etre as the nation’s admin capital. “There is no logical reason,” he said, “why the ACT should be the centre of gravity for the Federal public service.”
Why is everyone so anti-Canberra? And only seven months after those centenary celebrations designed to remind Australia
Why is everyone so anti-Canberra? And only seven months after those centenary celebrations designed to remind Australia of the importance of this heart of the nation.
of the importance of this heart of the nation.
CHAOS too in foreign affairs with the PM embracing his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe with heart-warming memories of those brave Japanese marines in the mini-subs attacking Sydney in 1942.
Certainly the elephant in the room – our principal trading partner, China – hasn’t forgotten. A spokesman said: “[Mr Abbott] probably wasn’t aware that the Japanese troops possessed other ‘skills’ to loot, to rape, to torture and to kill.”
Understandable perhaps that Tony brushed from history’s pages the horrors of Sandakan, Changi and the Burma railway, but if not one then why the other?
Perhaps his 37 spin doctors felt they had to include some “research” to earn their annual $4.3 million pay cheque.
TURMOIL too in that endless debate
about light rail. The Libs struck a telling blow with the revelation that only 10 per cent of Canberrans would be within walking distance of it. Simon Corbell’s response that they could build it all on weekends set the rafters ringing.
A much better idea, perhaps, would be to plan for a city of non-polluting electric cars – same green result at a fraction of the cost.
A REAL ethical dilemma for Katy Gallagher this week in deciding whether to release a list of Mr Fluffy homes. The real estate agents need to know what they’re selling, but once the toxic material has been removed the poor owners don’t want to be disadvantaged. News that the Planning Authority is developing a search line for residents to discover whether their house is affected complicates the issue further. Potential buyers – and agents –would surely find a way to access it.
ROBERT MACKLIN
PHILIPS BRAND ZOOM
I wonder whether the solution might be to reveal the list but compensate the owners to market value when the homes are sold.
THE highlight of NAIDOC week was the Canberra premiere at the CSIRO of Andrew Pike’s and Ann McGrath’s wonderful doco, “Message From Mungo”, about early Aboriginal habitation at the ancient lake. As one viewer wrote – “profound, radical and totally engaging; every Australian should see it”. An absolute natural for ABC TV.
robertmacklin.com
Winter warming
EVERYONE’s welcome to the Country Women’s Association, Canberra Branch’s Winter Warming Lunch in the CWA rooms, 8 Barry Drive, Civic, noon-2pm, Friday, July 25. The $12 cost includes a variety of homemade hot soups with crusty bread, a selection of cakes, tea or coffee.
Solar cooking tips
THE Canberra Environment Centre is holding a “solar cooking at home” workshop, 6pm-8pm, Tuesday, July 29 at which participants will learn about the different options for making their own solar cooker and how to cook with it. Entry is $20 and bookings to ecoaction.com.au
Seniors’ book fair
WODEN Seniors is holding a three-day Big Book Fair at its rooms at 12 Corinna Street, Woden (on the corner of Corinna Street and Melrose Drive) on the weekend of August 8-10. The club says it has collected many thousands of quality books covering all areas of interest, which will be offered at “affordable” prices. Club president, Paul McGlew, says proceeds of the fair will be used for building upgrades.
Just for fellas
AN evening of chivalry, bowties, canapés and awareness raising is promised at the Stella Fella campaign fundraiser at The Loft at Duxton, O’Connor, from 6.30pm, Thursday, August 14. Tickets from stellafella.com are $45 and include canapés and a donation to the Salvation Army’s Trafficking and Slavery Safe House.
As part of a national infrastructure sharing project Optus and Vodafone plan to upgrade an existing telecommunications facility at Canberra Institute of Technology, Bruce Campus, Eade Street, Bruce, ACT, 2617.
The works will include:
• Replacement of six panel antennas with six panel antennas (each measuring no more than 2.8 metres in length); Installation of eighteen remote radio units; and Associated ancillary works.
• Optus and Vodafone regard the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 1997 based on the description above.
• Further information can be obtained from Ben Davies, (02) 9300 1716, bend@ cpsglobal.com, and at www.rfnsa.com.au, RFNSA reference number 2617003.
• Written submissions should be sent to: Vodafone c/o CPS Global, Level 5, 55 Grafton Street, Bondi Junction, New South Wales, 2022 by 5pm, Wednesday, 30th July 2014.
Welcome to the ugly country
HALF a century ago we were “the lucky country”, according to Donald Horne. But 1964 is a long time ago and the description is ironic in today’s Australia.
Well, other than for the upper middle classes and above. No longer the lucky country, now we’re the mean country.
Just how mean can Australians get?
Mean is much more than about money. It is about “me”, about not caring about others and about bullying those who are down on their luck. The age of entitlement is finished!
Most obviously are the refugees. We have no room nor interest and just because they can’t manage in their own country – for economic or security reasons – does not make them our problem. It’s their problem and they should shoulder the responsibility and work it out, without coming to our shores begging for another opportunity.
But we also pick on our own; young people, in particular. Australia has been ranked equal third in the world’s first financial literacy assessment of young people.
The report released by the Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Development in the last week measured 15-year-olds’ knowledge of personal finances and solving financial problems.
Our leaders, no doubt, interpret this as supporting the process of leaving unemployed under 30-year-olds with no social security support for six months. They can manage their own finances after all!
In marking the end to the age of entitlement we have opened the new era of callousness, meanness, inequity and too bad about the unlucky – that’s their problem.
This is not the first time I have attacked the insidious GP $7 co-payment. The payment picks on the poor and the elderly. Who cares if they have to combine this payment with the medicines co-payment in the PBS? What about those who need repetitive medical visits? Too bad!
As AMA president Brian Owler points out, when they are at the early stages of warfarin prescription and need repeated pathology and medical consultations, it’s just their problem.
This is the nation that has just cut its foreign-aid budget by $7.6 billion over the next five years.
Little wonder we perform so poorly on the international “caring about others scale” – the “Good Country Index”, released by Simon Anholt, an independent policy adviser, on June 24. It ranks countries based on how much they do for others globally. Ireland and Finland are on top with Libya at the bottom. Wealthy Australia comes in 15th just ahead of Cyprus, Spain and Italy that have been wrestling with genuine budget issues. But why should we care?
These are just a few examples. The Federal
Budget was the real indicator of how mean and ugly we Australians have become.
Yep, a majority voted for the government – it is our government and it sets the standards.
An academic economist I know, who has all the Federal Budgets since 1973, told me that the “last Budget was the meanest and unfairest” he had seen in 40 years of Budget watching.
The reality is that those of us who are the lucky ones in our “lucky country” just don’t give a damn anymore. In marking the end to the age of entitlement we have opened the new era of callousness, meanness, inequity and too bad about the unlucky – that’s their problem.
Michael Moore was an independent member of the ACT Legislative Assembly (1989 to 2001) and was minister for health.
MICHAEL MOORE
Polling-day appeals to go unheard
TUCKED away at Recommendation 16 of the recent “Voting Matters” report is a ground-breaking suggestion that will be welcomed by most ACT constituents.
The report of the ACT Legislative Assembly’s Select Committee on Amendments to the Electoral Act 1992 contains 18 recommendations, which deal mainly with issues of finance: electoral expenditure, donations, the amount payable for each first preference cast and even the penalty for failing to turn up to vote in an Assembly election.
Put simply, the committee is recommending that the 100-metre rule limiting canvassing for votes at a polling booth be increased to 250 metres.
Not only will this extension apply to zealous volunteers waving how-to-vote pamphlets, but also to signage – probably the most effective means of promoting party candidates given the Robson rotation of our Assembly ballot papers.
Since the inception of the 100-metre rule around polling places, problems have arisen.
At no financial cost and in one simple move an irritating election-day problem has been solved, writes former Speaker GREG CORNWELL
Apart from the occasional breach by individual enthusiasts, the security fencing of schools, usually the main polling centres, has seen voters channelled to school gates often beyond the 100 metres making them easy targets for party workers and effectively defeating the purpose of the rule intended to avoid disruption to voters attending a polling place.
Extending the limit to 250 metres should prevent this inconvenience and will be particularly useful for pre-poll voters. Many of these booths are in commercial premises where application of the shorter distance sometimes is difficult to measure, for example, if the booth was upstairs. Political parties should not be too concerned
at this suggested change. Manning polling booths has become increasingly challenging over recent elections.
It should also go some way to achieve what a democratic election is all about: not being given a sheet of paper to blindly follow, but people casting a vote having made up their minds after careful consideration of party platforms and the individual merit of each candidate.
By comparison, my own suggestion to place party how-to-vote cards inside polling booths, as I understand is the practice in SA, and therefore banning canvassing outside the booths, is a poor alternative. At no financial cost and in one simple move – with the distance involved further extended if necessary – an irritating problem has been solved. Now all that remains is for the Assembly itself to accept the recommendation.
Greg Cornwell is a former speaker of the ACT Legislative Assembly
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As I get older I want to have choice and control
You can with a bit of help from My Aged Care
In defence of the human cogs
It runs on rules: like all bureaucracies, it is designed to get the job done, regardless of the abilities of the individual human cogs in the machine.”
– Charles Stross, “The Rhesus Files”
THE Public Service has been getting a right old kicking recently.
Savage cuts are still shaking out through the system, it is much and oft maligned in the Murdoch media and, this past week, we’ve again been treated to suggestions that departments should be death marched to far-flung regions in a manner not seen since Pol Pot’s Year Zero in Cambodia.
Part of the problem is there are few heroic narratives about the hard graft of getting things done reliably in a complex world.
We like the idea of the perspicacious bold leader taking charge; “just follow that person and we won’t have to think! Or be afraid!”
Sadly, history is replete with the corpses of people who followed charismatic leaders into the teeth of well-organised but boring organisations.
Cast back to Boxing Day, 1943, off the North Cape of Norway when the German “Scharnhorst” met the British “HMS Duke of York” in a howling blizzard and heaving seas.
A finely built ship with a brave and talented captain and crew the “Scharnhorst” couldn’t hope to win that day for very boring reasons. Her radar system was lost early in the engagement and the British had switched to using flashless powder to fire their guns.
Losing radar meant the German battleship couldn’t see her enemy in the driving snow, and she couldn’t make out the muzzle flash of the guns. On the other hand, the British had multiple radars and could see the Germans every time they fired.
Much better to have sat through the meetings, developed the protocols, set out the guidelines and won the battle before casting off from the jetty.
The business of government is dreary because it is so important.
It can’t be left to brilliant individual talents because its work has to be completed even if the brilliant talent has called in sick that day.
It’s said that the most dangerous people in an organisation are “enthusiastic idiots”.
Let’s talk about changes to aged care.
Aged care should be decided by the person who knows you best – you. That’s why aged care changes from 1 July 2014 give you more choice, more control and more of the services you might need to help you stay independent. New financing arrangements also start. So if you’re getting older and need help, or if you’re caring for someone who does, call My Aged Care or visit the website to find out what you need to know to start planning and talking about aged care with your family and loved ones.
Australia, in my opinion, has never seen one more enthusiastic than Kevin Rudd and it’s worth remembering his plans for a public service of brilliant high flyers.
Similarly, current schemes to distribute departments may make for good politics, but as policy it would deprive the bureaucracy of its talent pool in Canberra.
A talent pool not necessarily of brilliant individual talents (although some undoubtedly are), but people who know the rules, know how to work within the machine and, all importantly, know how to get the job done. Whether preparing their men for trading shells with Germans in the Arctic Sea or making sure disability pensions are paid on time.
JOHN GRIFFITHS
For personalised assistance, talk to a real person on 1800 200 422* or visit myagedcare.gov.au
Because the sooner we all start talking about aged care and planning it, the better the outcome for you and your family.
Social event of the week / Scandinavian Film Festival opening night, NewActon
“THE 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed out the Window and Disappeared” was the opening night film for the Scandinavian Film Festival.
MILLS
With a screenplay from an international best-selling book of the same name, it is a preposterous and hilarious romp around Sweden with several deaths by misadventure, an elephant, copious drinking and a cast of characters to delight.
The star Allan (Robert Gustafsson) has had a life of adventure that began with a penchant for blowing things up. Tree stumps, matryoshka dolls one by one and, by default, a philanderer. His fantasmagorical journey through the 20th century meeting Franco, Stalin, Truman, Ronald Reagan and Gorbachev had him working precariously on scaffolding on the Manhattan skyline as well as the Manhattan Project, as a double agent and a singularly ordinary kind of man who says the bleeding obvious, which gets him bumbling into ridiculous situations.
Our film star guest for the launch was Finnish actor Laura Birn, who stars in two of the festival’s films.
At Palace Electric until July 20.
Monique Geasley, Kristian Nilsson and Pascale Maddock
Damaris Wilson and Dallas Stow
Marina Di Rosso and Stephen Goulding
Laura Birn, Genevieve Kelly and Laura Munsterhjelm
Jeremy Lasek and Coralie Wood Geoff and Katerina Prime
Stewart Henderson and Tracey Atherton
Elysia, Antonio and Karen Zeccola
Susanne Moor and Sofie Fogdem
Nicholas Cox, Brett Whitemann, Bryn Callahan and host Andrew Blyth
Buck Rodgers, Melanie Caragh, Josie Dunham and Nick Cossart
Robyn Zwar with Dale and Mary Curran
Megan Bisa, Brent Pullen and Natasha Williams
Sean and Carrie-Ann Leeson
Angela Ryan and Ada Prosperi
Diana McCarthy and Jacqui Stenhouse
Andrew Sinclair and Georgina Hickey
Mike Zissler and Alicia Doherty
Dannielle Urquhart and Rachel Gilbertson
Angie Cook, Adam Gill and Susan O’Neil
Louise Hughes, Avril Kelly, Kara Rusen and Joy Terry
Shayne and Kirsty Bellato and Eldad Ohayon
Maria Purnell and Leonie Greenwood
Matt Graham and Jessica Versegi
Photos by Andrew Finch
If the unique comfort of natural gas heating is on your mind this winter, there’s never been a better time to connect or upgrade. ActewAGL’s hottest ever natural gas heater deal is on now, with up to $1,000 back on new natural gas heating systems and upgrades.
Plus, with a range of manufacturer incentives and finance options* across a wide range of gas heating appliances, you’ll save even more. It’s easy to see why natural gas is the natural choice.
Canberra Confidential
Poor boys?
CANBERRA Grammar School is “not sitting on a wealthy foundation, nor does it receive high levels of funding”, reveals head of school Justin Garrick in a tin-rattling, tax-deductible plea last month to the alma mater for the new CGS Foundation.
“What with its extensive grounds and ivy-laden walls, I know Canberra Grammar School can give a convincing display of age-old wealth,” he says, progressing to a pie chart that shows by the time the school’s paid for the teachers (69 per cent), academic, co-curricular, pastoral resources and support (16 per cent), technology and finance (10 per cent) and grounds and maintenance (4 per cent), there’s only a scant one per cent left to “create something extraordinary”.
Cue his endorsement of the new foundation and the need to refurb the primary facilities, which he also candidly admits are “outdated and outgrown”.
Parking a problem
THERE seems some confusion on the streets about the cost of parking at the government’s new voucher machines. CC seems to recall that above the old machines there used to be a sign with the scale of charges at the cumulative
hourly rate. This transparent approach has been sneakily replaced by the parking gnomes with built-in signage showing the incremental rate per hour.
An accountant of our acquaintance, one given to fierce pragmatism and sharp intellect, sincerely believed that two hours of parking cost $2.50 on the basis that the sign says: “1st hour, $2; 2nd hour, $2.50”. Under the pressure of lampooning, she squeaked she wasn’t alone at the machine when others also were overcome with misplaced optimism at the government’s parking largesse.
Baz branches out
RICHARD Baz , operator of the popular National Portrait Gallery book and gift store, is branching out. He and his partner Melanie will open an innovative new store called The Curatoreum at the National Arboretum, opening on September 1.
Nice-guy Rich has not only run the Portrait Gallery shop with distinction, but he is the passionate force behind the annual Undercurrent Design Market, which features unique and innovative Australian arts and crafts.
Paul paints Hill
“CITYNEWS” cartoonist Paul Dorin has just finished painting his 21st pair of jeans in aid of the Children’s Medical Research Institute’s annual Jeans 4 Genes gala jeans art auction charity. This year he chose American actor Jonah Hill, from “Wolf of Wall Street”, “Superbad” and “22 Jump Street”.
“l have been fortunate to paint the jeans of Hollywood heavyweights David Hasselhoff, Jim Belushi, Kevin Kline and Robin Williams, and sports stars Craig Lowndes, Ricky Ponting and Jeff Fenech,” says the scribbler to the stars.
“l have, up to now, used only the two-legged jeans as my canvas, and this year l wanted to try something completely different. l decided to use the jeans as part of the painting.
“I used Jonah’s character from the movie version of ‘22 Jump Street’ as the theme of the artwork.”
Jeans donated by Hill, Eric Bana, Adam Sandler, Gene Simmons and other celebrities are painted by a select group of invited Australian artists to raise money for the CMRI, which is dedicated to discovering why one in 20 children is born with a birth defect or genetic disease.
The jeans will be auctioned at the Jeans 4 Genes gala dinner in Sydney on August 23.
Hmmms…
Former “Idol” finalist Chanel Cole is keenly awaiting the homecoming of her husband, brilliant young pianist Adam Cook , who has been studying in France. CC hears the plan is to immediately jump in a van and follow the sun by busking around Australia for three months. Busking with a Steinway?
FROM “The Chronicle” of July 8: “With Canberra’s cool-climate wines enjoying international notoriety…” CC snout Pierre the Lair thinks “‘enjoying’ is the wrong word here”.
LOST in translation… from the mygungahlin website, a kid’s clothing label that sensibly urges that the child be removed before washing!
“THOUSANDS of restaurants, cafes and catering businesses are joining forces with the Fair Work Ombudsman to improve compliance with Federal workplace laws across the hospitality sector”, trumpets a wide-eyed announcement from the ombudsman. And who doesn’t love improving compliance more than the hospitality industry?
Cartoonist Paul Dorin with his jeans painting of American actor Jonah Hill.
National Pain Week, July 21-27 advertising
Finding the right people to pounce on pain
THE theme for National Pain Week 2014 (July 21-27) is “Pain is Ageless”, to create awareness that pain doesn’t discriminate.
Chronic pain affects one in three Australians (that’s eight million people) and is one of the nation’s most costly health problems.
National Pain Week is an opportunity to talk about pain in the open and to let people living with pain find out there is help and resources available.
The week is run by Chronic Pain Australia, a not-for-profit organisation that urges everyone who has pain or is a carer of someone living with pain, to go to its website (nationalpainweek.org.au) to see where and how they can get help for pain.
According to Chronic Pain Australia, one in five Australians will suffer chronic pain in their lifetime, and up to 80 per cent of people living with chronic pain are missing out on treatment that could improve their health and quality of life. Unsurprisingly, the need for comprehensive multi-disciplinary injury and pain management treatment is growing.
Chronic pain can affect everyone, whether it’s the result of illness, injury, disease or surgery and this week “CityNews” showcases some of the practitioners around town who specialise in dealing with pain.
‘CARM Stretching’
NEW WEDNESDAY 5:30pm CLASS!
CARM Stretching is aimed at stretching beginners, so there is no need for you to be able to bend like a pretzel! But be quick to book your space as numbers are strictly limited.
$150 for 10 x 45min classes, 9am on Saturdays and now ALSO 5:30pm Wednesdays! Or double up and do both classes for only $280 for the 10 week block.
NEW TERM STARTS
Wednesday 23nd & Saturday 26th July
Remedial Massage Treatments
Do you suffer from stress, chronic pain or a nagging injury?
CARM Therapies Remedial Massage clinic is open Monday to Saturday!
PAIN is a normal and necessary part of life, but when it persists beyond the usual healing times of tissue (generally three to six months), it can become a significant problem in its own right, adversely affecting a person’s quality of life and ability to function, says Kathy Conroy, joint owner with Jac Cousin of Canberra Injury Management Centre (CIMC).
“We offer a range of services, depending on the nature and duration of the client’s injury – from physiotherapy, remedial massage and exercise physiology for clients with more acute injuries – through to more comprehensive, multi-disciplinary treatment for clients with more chronic or complex conditions,” she says.
“We emphasise that seeing clients in the more acute stages of an injury is beneficial in helping to foster a healthy focus on active self-management,
and reducing unhelpful dependence on passive treatments.”
Whether it’s acute or chronic musculoskeletal pain, overuse injuries, post-operative rehabilitation, post-traumatic stress, assistance with returning to work or simply getting back to pre-injury fitness or activity, Kathy says her team can help.
Established in 1999, CIMC was the first clinic in Canberra to offer integrated, multi-disciplinary treatment for acute and chronic injuries or pain.
“The clinic can offer gym-based training, warmwater hydrotherapy and home exercise programs, as well as relaxation and stress management techniques, and a range of coping strategies specific to a client’s circumstances,” says Kathy.
CIMC, Canberra Olympic Pool, corner of Constitution Avenue and Allara Street, Civic. Call 6230 0200.
Don’t give up, try different therapies
FOR many people, pain is a constant, unwelcome companion. It demands attention, it limits enjoyment and it depresses the spirit.
But pain is also unique to the sufferer and remedies that work for some may not work for others says Ben Connelly, owner of Griffith Massage Centre.
“Rather than accepting pain, regardless of its cause or your age, it makes sense to test different therapies, to take the self-care advice you receive and evaluate how your body responds,” he says.
“Many people who had ‘given up looking’ have subsequently found great relief from their pain using this approach.”
Prevention, of course, is better than cure, Ben says.
Woden Integrated Physiotherapy offers individual assessment, hands on treatment, and advice. We have physiotherapists who have special interest in a wide range of conditions and treatment approaches. We also provide a range of group exercise options.
Hydrotherapy – held on Wednesday & Friday mornings from 7:00am at Kings Pool Deakin by one of our Senior Physiotherapists.
Other classes, held in our own gym that can assist with pain relief include:
Forever Young – held on Monday, Wednesday & Thursday. This class is great for improving cardiovascular fitness, strength, flexibility and balance in our elderly patients.
Dynamic Core – held on Tuesday & Friday and targets abdominal strength for lower back pain. For more information call 6282 5010 or see our website www.wodenintegrated.com.au
Please mention this ad when booking your appointment
“Taking short breaks at your work, doing those stretches, using good form at the gym and working with your body, rather than imposing your will on it, will reduce injuries and help keep muscular discomfort from becoming chronic pain.”
At Griffith Massage Centre there are qualified therapists trained in remedial massage techniques. They treat the musculoskeletal and postural problems responsible for chronic pain.
“It can take a number of treatments to undo conditions that have developed over months or years, but the therapists can help you with selfcare techniques to speed your recovery,” says Ben. Griffith Massage Centre, 10a Barker Street, Griffith. Call 6295 6733 or visit griffithmassage.com.au
Visit www.optimalhealthcanberra.com.au …it could change your life!
Stubborn neck & back pain, scoliosis, numbness, weakness, headaches, RSI, arm or leg pain, chronic muscle tightness, general stiffness and poor posture are commonly helped at our clinic. Call for a FREE CONSULTATION to get your questions answered. Treatment not included. Learn about a neuroplastic treatment that can teach your body to self correct. See website for university research results. Phone 6162 2919
Open 7 days a week
For bookings call 6257 0388 or visit our website to book online www.massageforhealth.com.au
Specialists in effective Remedial and Relaxation Massage
We are able to provide tailored treatments to reduce pain and assist in the recovery from injury or stress related conditions
Qualified and Experienced Therapists
Health fund rebates available
National Pain Week, July 21-27
Manage and prevent pain
PHYSIOTHERAPY can help put people back into action by carefully treating painful joints and muscles, say Kathy Conroy and Jac Cousin, owners of Canberra Physiotherapy Centre.
“We can educate you about managing your condition, advise you on ways to prevent the problem happening again, and design a personal exercise program,” Kathy says.
Established in 1986, Canberra Physiotherapy Centre is one of the longest established physiotherapy practices in Canberra.
“If you have an injury, or you’re experiencing aches or pains in any part of your body, you can trust us to use a wide range of techniques to relieve pain, restore movement and avoid further problems,” she says.
“We treat a wide variety of conditions, ranging from sporting injuries through to rehabilitation from major orthopaedic surgery, fractures or joint injuries. Other common complaints include neck or back pain and overuse injuries, areas in which our therapists are experts.”
The team includes Adam Taylor, Christopher Cousin and Andrew Fletcher, as well as Kathy and Jac (a specialist musculoskeletal physiotherapist).
“Jac and I are committed to continuing education and place great value in our staff having special interests and expertise in different areas of physiotherapy,” she says.
Canberra Physiotherapy Centre, Suite B4 Canberra Specialist Centre, 161 Strickland Crescent, Deakin. Call 6282 3266.
Massage for pain and anxiety
REMEDIAL and relaxation massages are great ways to gain relief from pain, says Emma Hely, massage therapist and owner of Massage for Health in Ainslie.
“Remedial massage is primarily for injury recovery, rehabilitation and chronic or acute conditions,” she says. “The aim with this type of massage is to improve the condition or injury that the client has.
“Remedial massage offers long-term returns, and while there may be some pain associated with the massage, the results are ongoing.”
Emma says that relaxation massage can help with the anxiety associated with ongoing pain.
“People who have been living with a painful condition for a long time often require stress management to deal with it,” she says.
“We can also provide home-care advice, such
What
we do at the
Health Fund claims. Credit Card facilities. Free Parking
Dry Needling, Cupping, Hot Stone and Aromatherapy treatments also available.
We have Gift Vouchers for your special someone. Anniversaries, Birthdays or just saying ‘Thank You’.
as strength training and stretches that relieve pain and help to prevent issues recurring.”
Emma says that regular maintenance massage can also be preventative and promotes general wellbeing.
Massage for Health also offers acupuncture and cupping.
Massage for Health, Level 1/3 Edgar Street, Ainslie. Call 6257 0388 or visit massageforhealth.com.au
Canberra Physiotherapy Centre
At the Canberra Physiotherapy Centre, we treat a wide variety of conditions, ranging from sporting injuries through to rehabilitation from major orthopaedic surgery, fractures or joint injuries. Other common complaints include neck or back pain and overuse injuries, which are also the areas of expertise of our therapists.
Treatments may include: • joint manipulation or mobilisation
stretches
supervised exercises
pain relief techniques, such as electrotherapy
pain management education • postural and ergonomic advice
Christopher Cousin | Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
Phone (02) 6282 3266
Suite B4 Canberra Specialist Centre 161 Strickland Cresent Deakin ACT 2600
Profound effect of massage Train the brain away from pain
MASSAGE is a simple action with a profound effect, says Emily Worsnop, owner and founder of CARM Therapies.
“Each client we see undergoes an initial assessment, which helps us identify the best treatment options –usually a combination of techniques depending on the circumstances, and what they want to achieve,” she says.
Emily founded CARM Therapies in 2002, and has been based in Scullin for just over a year.
The clinic offers remedial, relaxation, pregnancy, sports and deep-tissue massage, as well as dry needling, kinesio taping and new stretching classes, run by massage therapist Christine Webster.
“Remedial massage is great for post-acute, soft tissue injuries, and for relieving symptoms of chronic pain,” says Emily.
“Relaxation massage calms the nervous system, reduces anxiety and stress, increases blood and lymphatic activity, and decreases muscle and connective tissue tension.
“Whether you want to relax, or have a chronic injury or condition treated, CARM Therapies can create a treatment plan that’s right for you.”
CAREFUL assessment is required at the outset to determine exactly what sort of help people need, says physiotherapist Elizabeth Abbott, one of four directors at Woden Integrated Physiotherapy.
“Our aim is to help people regain function and a sense of wellbeing, so we take a holistic view of the client’s life, and how it impacts on their pain.
“We take care to address an individual’s needs by creating a treatment program that’s tailored to them.
NEUROPLASTICITY is the ability of the nervous system to change its structure and function, and can be used effectively as a treatment for chronic pain, says Dr Jason Barritt, chiropractor and owner of Optimal Health in Braddon.
“It trains the brain towards pain reduction by correcting a number of problems in the spine,” he says.
Jason says this treatment is more effective for chronic pain than acute pain. The method he uses, Network Spinal Analysis (NSA), is a form of neuroplastic treatment.
“Most methods of dealing with pain go to the painful place, but it may not be the source of the problem,” he says. “With NSA, we touch points in the body that are working, and invite the brain to increase awareness of the troubled area.”
It is a very gentle treatment, using a range of touches with a practitioner’s finger in specific locations along the spine and body in order to stimulate a response that becomes more complex with successive treatments.
This utilises the nervous system’s neuroplastic capability to learn more sophisticated tasks which can then be utilised for healing and enhancing function and performance, Jason says.
“Sometimes it will be hands-on therapy, but it could also be exercise therapy. Gym sessions can help people get their fitness back and that, in turn, greatly assists with pain.”
Woden Integrated Physiotherapy has a range of physiotherapists who specialise in sports injuries, orthopaedic, women’s health, pelvic floor, TMJ, chronic pain management, whiplash injuries, sport rehabilitation, musculoskeletal injuries and more.
It also features an on-site gym, as well as access to Kings pool in Deakin, says Elizabeth.
“We also have ‘Forever Young’ fitness classes and dynamic core classes, which are great for back pain, posture and trunk control.
“We can help people get their life back.”
Woden Integrated Physiotherapy, Level 1, Canberra Health Point, 16 Wilbow St, Woden. Call 6282 5010.
Canberra Injury Management Centre
Experts in the treatment of acute and chronic injury or pain
WE OFFER:
• Acute injury treatment
• Chronic pain management education and advice
• Manipulative Physiotherapy - including Canberra’s only Specialist Manipulative Physiotherapist, Mr Jac Cousin
• Remedial Massage
• Psychology - for injury adjustment, pain and general psychological concerns
• Supervised Gym, Hydrotherapy or home exercise programs with Masters-qualified Accredited Exercise Physiologist, Mr Stuart Stokoe
• Injury rehabilitation
• Weight-loss
• Personal training and sports conditioning
• Exercise for older adults and chronic conditions
• Medication Management
REBATES AVAILABLE
Private clients can usually access rebates via Medicare (on referral from a GP) and the majority of Private Health Insurers offer rebates through HICAPS. We also accept referrals under Comcare, WorkCover, DVA and Compulsory Third-party insurance.
Christopher Cousin | Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
Dr Garth Eaton | Occupational Physician
Vicki Coghlan | Clinical Psychologist
Rachel Simon | Psychologist
Stuart Stokoe | Accredited Exercise Physiologist / Programmes Coordinator
Canberra Injury Management Centre
Centrally located at the Canberra Olympic Pool and Gymnasium in Civic Cnr Constitution Avenue & Allara Street, Canberra ACT 2601
Phone: 02 6230 0200 • Fax: 02 6262 6282
Email: cimc@netspace.net.au www.cimc.net.au
Resist the temptation to slip into the excuse of
hibernation. Here’s a selection of experts offering high-quality options for getting fit effectively and safely, and helping you maintain your goals...
Sign up with a friend before the 31st August and you’ll both receive a 20% discount off the monthly rate for the term of your current
When feeling fit and fabulous
Take the challenge
ANYTIME Fitness wants Canberra to feel something better, says Alex Zeitlhofer, regional operations manager for the 24-hour fitness company.
Alex says that all Anytime Fitness clubs across the ACT are offering a 12-week Challenge, which includes small-group training, one-onone training and program sessions.
“Our aim is to add as many years to people’s lives as possible, through this self-motivated program,” he says. “This is the first time the whole region has been involved in something like this.
several options you can sign up for, but the Challenge starts at $129.”
The Challenge includes a bootcamp run by “The Biggest Loser” personal trainer, Shannan Ponton, at Lake Burley Griffin on October 11, and a celebratory gala dinner at the Southern Cross Club on the same day.
Inviting and friendly gym
“The sessions available will vary from club to club and there are
“Sign up before the end of July, and you can start straight away,” says Alex. “Strive to be one per cent better every day, if that’s one extra set of squats or an extra kilometre on the bike – it might not seem like much, but over 12 weeks it’s extra progress you wouldn’t otherwise have made.”
More information at anytimefitness.com.au
Fitness on the cloud
THE Technogym Wellness Cloud, an elite digital fitness scheme designed to give optimal results from every workout, is available at the Evo Health Club at the Hotel Realm, says club manager Stephanie Davies.
“The Wellness System is easy to use and simplifies every aspect of our members’ experience,” she says.
A smart key records every step and exercise you do and sets a daily goal of the number of “moves” you should make, based on the nature of your job.
“At the club, plug the key into any Technogym machine and it records your workout and can monitor your progress for months, even years,” she says.“As for non-Technogym exercise or ones where you burn calories without taking too many
steps, such as weight training or yoga, simply plug the key into a designated Wellness Cloud kiosk at the club or your computer at home to record your workout.”
Compatible with smartphones, tablets, computers and smart televisions, Stephanie says “My Wellness Cloud also allows your personal trainer to monitor your fitness.”
Evo Health Club is also home to Kinesis, a type of training that helps improve balance, flexibility and strength. Members can also enjoy Evo’s beautiful wet area featuring a 25-metre lap pool, sauna, steam room and hydrotherapy spa.
Evo Health Club, within Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit, Barton. Call 6162 0808 or visit evohealthclub.com.au
C ARDIO cinemas, where you can use cardio equipment while watching movies, are just one of the amenities available at Gold’s Gym, along with a wide range of other classes and equipment, says general manager Christos Kyrgios.
“With two convenient locations in Fyshwick and Gungahlin, our goal is to help you realise your goal,” he says. “Whether you’re ready to join or want to see what it’s like to work out with the number one name in fitness, getting started is easy.”
Gold’s Gyms feature a variety of amenities and classes, such as free weights, outdoor training facility (in Fyshwick), kids’ clubs, group exercise classes, cardio cinemas, functional training, merchandise for sale, pro shops, group cycling, and zumba, yoga and pilates classes.
“We are a very inviting, friendly and welcoming gym,” says Christos.
More information at 6280 4987 (Fyshwick) or 6242 5807 (Gungahlin). Franchise enquiries to 0422 500002.
At Evo we understand each individual has different genes, metabolism and life challenges and this is precisely the reason every membership and training program needs to be tailored. The carefully planned Evo program combined with your commitment is the formula for great results.
No other gym or health club can offer the Evo experience. We have the very latest solutions and equipment; in a luxuriously designed health club environment, including a 25m lap pool, sauna, spa and steam room.
WINTER
Join in July and receive a FREE 90 minute, one-on-one wellness assessment, including Inbody medical laser scan, fitness test and individual programs, AND NO JOINING FEE – saving you over $289 value!
advertising feature
is just a call away
A fresh new look
CURVES gyms across Canberra and Queanbeyan are getting a new look with new, modern fitness equipment, says Anita O’Meara, owner of Curves Belconnen.
“The gyms will have all-new equipment, with a fresh look and a sleeker, more modern design,” she says.
Anita says the new-generation equipment is more streamlined and more functional from an exercise perspective.
“They are designed to be more efficient, giving a better workout, with better resistance to maximise results,” she says.
The new equipment will not be available at every gym – Anita advises contacting your local Curves for more information.
More information at curves.com.au
Motivation with enjoyment
LEADING a healthy, active lifestyle can increase energy levels and productivity, and reduce stress, says Olivia Watson, owner of Hype Personal Training.
“Our approach is unique, and we can offer many different services to accommodate for each individual or group needs,” she says.
“We can help you to gain a better ability to manage priorities and time, aid in behaviour and habit modification, improved strength, mobility, fitness and energy, enhanced self-esteem, motivation and long-term happiness.”
Olivia has been a personal trainer for 11 years, and started Hype with her partner Lupe Ngata six years ago.
Welcoming gym with lots of Energy
IT’S all about the facilities and exceptional service at Energy Fitness Centre, says owner Jess Giampaolo.
“Our vision is to have the best health and wellbeing centre in Canberra, by offering our members exceptional service, great facilities and ongoing support to help you achieve your goals,” she says.
“From the moment you walk in
“We are motivational and we make sure that everyone is enjoying themselves while pushing them to do things they never thought possible,” Hype offers corporate health and fitness programs, one-on-one and small group personal training, team building activities, group fitness classes, boxing and kickboxing training, strength and conditioning, outdoor and adventure X-training, fat loss and weight management, TRX suspension training, lifestyle management, as well as nutrition programs and advice.
Hype Personal Training, call 0433 700 556, visit hypept.com.au or email admin@hypept.com.au
the door you will be greeted by our friendly reception staff who can help you out with any need you have.”
Energy Fitness Centre offers a range of classes, personal training, small group training and an equipment-based pilates studio.
“We have clean, modern surroundings with a strong emphasis on group fitness classes with three
studios: a group fitness studio, cycle studio and the pilates studio,” Jess says. The gym also offers a crèche service six days a week.
Energy Fitness Centre, 90-100 Hardwick Crescent, Kippax. Call 6254 8848 or email info@energyfitnesscentre.com.au
Get
the technique right
CROSSFIT is a strength and conditioning program, using elements of Olympic weightlifting, powerlifting, kettlebells and gymnastics, combined with running or rowing, says Alanna Osborne, owner of CrossFit Technique in Hume.
“The combination of these fitness exercises create short, intense training sessions that are universally scalable to your strength and fitness level,” she says.
Alanna says that CrossFit optimises fitness through constantly varied functional movements performed at relatively high intensity.
“It’s also about the community that arises when people do these workouts together,” she says. “In fact, the communal aspect of
CrossFit is a key component of why it’s so effective.
“Our family-run gym is about community and dedicated, knowledgeable coaching,” says Alanna, who runs the gym with her husband Jamie Osborne. “We value technique above all else. This means technique (how well you do it) over speed (how fast you do it), reps (how many you do), and weight (how heavy you do it). Get your form and technique right from the start and the rest will come!”
CrossFit Technique is offering a winter special, where you can join with a friend for $179 per month.
PERSONAL training that is motivational, tailored for the individual and ensures progress is the focus of Results PT, says owner Dave Matheson.
“We are personal training and weight-loss specialists, and we make sure our clients get the results they want by following up – we contact them every two days to see how they’re going with their nutrition and we do assessments every four weeks,” says Dave. Results is run by Dave and his wife Emily, and they have been in business for around 20 years. They have two studios, one in
Welcome to Gold’s Gym, where our only goal is to help you realize yours. Whether you’re ready to join or want to see what it’s like to work out with the number one name in fitness, getting started is easy.
the Hellenic Club, Woden, and another private studio in Weston. The membership is exclusive and capped at 200 in Woden and 100 in Weston, says Dave.
Results can also offer martial arts training and stretching and relaxation classes. Dave was a six-times world champion in taekwondo.
Results is currently offering a two for the price of one personal training package, so you can “train with a buddy and share the cost”. No contracts, no joining fees and no cancellation fees.
More information at 0402 451049.
TRAINING outdoors is exhilarating and motivating, says Nathan Hitchcock, director/owner of outdoor training business Define Fitness.
“For us, it’s all about creating a routine that you will love,” he says. “We believe passionately in what we sell and what we do, and we know that being outside in nature feels good.”
Nathan says that for Define, it’s not just about fitness – it’s the lifestyle.
“We take a holistic view and, as such, we’re affiliated with other businesses that share this view, including a nutritionist, physios and healthy cafes.”
Nathan established Define Fitness six years ago, and offers personal training sessions, partner sessions, bootcamps and corporate programs.
“We want to help our clients become their fittest and healthiest yet,” he says.
“All our programs are uniquely tailored and led by our expert team of personal trainers. We design workouts to suit your needs and get results. We also find that our workouts give people a real sense of accomplishment.”
The team includes personal trainers Seb Muirhead, Maddi Carne and Sam Slingsby.
Define Fitness, call 0402 290371, email nathan@definefitness.com.au or visit definefitness.com.au
Charnwood
20 Cartwright Street 6259 1633
Chisholm
1/68 Halley Street 6292 2846
Civic
Grd Lvl, COG House, 219 London Cct 6230 4555
Dickson
Lvl 1, 17 Woolley Street 6230 1333
Fyshwick
INCLUDES
REGISTRATON AND ACCESS TO ANYTIME HEALTH
AND FOR A LIMTIED TIME ONLY, IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE 12 WEEK CHALLENGE, ANYTIME FITNESS IS OFFERING A 12 WEEK MEMBERSHIP
BIO-AGE TESTING AN EXCLUSIVE ANYTIME FITNESS SINGLET A TICKET TO THE ANYTIME FITNESS CANBERRA GALA DINNER
BOOTCAMP WITH SHANNAN PONTON
Lvl 1, 47 Newcastle Street 6280 6425
Gungahlin
Suite 2, The G Gungahlin, 46-50 Hibberson Street 6241 5327
Jamison
15 Bowman Street, Maquarie 6162 2900
Jerrabomberra
Shop 13, Jerrabomberra Shopping Village 6255 8464
Kingston Unit 71, 71 Giles Street 6295 9952
Queanbeyan 69/71 Monaro Street 6232 9047
Tuggeranong
Shop 1-8, House & Home Cenctre, Ankftell St 6293 3962
Weston 8 Liardet Street 6287 3707
Woden 101 Hindmarsh Drive 6281 6258
Lanyon
Coming Soon…
To bring some warmth and magic to the long Canberra winter, Margaret Dimoff Gallery in Deakin is presenting a special Christmas in July Event.
Featuring:
• Margaret’s multi-layered paintings
Amazing art, colour and movement in balance, great magic, music and good food.
arts & entertainment
Quirky musical with toys
“THE Rokitelly Man” is the latest in a lineup of new musicals this year.
Six years in the making, its composer, Andrew Hackwill, is well-known for new musicals staged at Tuggeranong Arts Centre, not least “The Department of Heaven”, “Sanger Hill”, “The Court of Swing Caractacus” and “It Was That Way When I Got Here”.
The script is by Michael Heming with additional lyrics by Hackwill.
With direction by Richard Block, musical direction by Max Gambale and choreography by Kathryn Jones, it’s a kind of quirky “Toy Story”.
The busy Toy Emporium is where social misfit Jeremy, who works in packaging, has a plan for a new robot invention, the Rokitelly.
Cindy, the girl Jeremy secretly loves, suggests he take the Rokitelly to the bosses and the plot thickens.
–
“The Rokitelly Man”, Belconnen Theatre, July 25-August 2. Bookings to stagecenta.com
A stage of masochism
IN Roman Polanski’s hands, David Ives’ Broadway play of the same name, based on Leopold von Sacher-Masoch’s 1870 novel about the giving and receiving of pain as a sexual stimulus, is remarkably effective cinema.
People expecting an erotic buzz from it are backing a loser. Sacher-Masoch was concerned to bring masochism into the light and explain its sexual links. The intellectual processes underlying its plot are the dialogue-driven film’s predominant focus, with references to anatomical bits by words rather than explicit pictures.
A woman arrives late at an otherwise empty Paris theatre to audition for a play written by its director adapting Sacher-Masoch’s novel. They have never met. It’s his first play. At first sight, it seems that it’s her first try for an acting job.
She presents as an ill-informed ditz whom no director would engage in a fit. But after reading the first three pages of the script with her, he begins to realise that her behaviour to that point is indeed a virtuoso performance. Her desperate campaign to get the role piques his curiosity enough to continue.
As the pair proceeds with discovering each other, life begins to imitate art. The actress becomes Vanda, the woman in the novel. He falls into the thrall that her unabashed words and spectacular carnality impose. Polanski’s wife Emmanuelle Seigner, magnificent as Vanda, and Mathieu Amalric as Thomas the playwright/ director, bring impressive skills to a work redolent of live theatre and cinema.
At Palace Electric
• Camille Thomsett’s vivid Kinetic Art sculptures
• ambient acoustic music performed by Rob Thomsett
• magic and laughter by Majura, the Magician
• and delightful Christmas food and drink
A true celebration of the Arts of Christmas in July. Join us between 5 and 7pm on Saturday, 26 July at the Margaret Dimoff Gallery, 36-38 Grey Street, Deakin ACT 2600.
“The Lunchbox” (PG)
HURRAH! Indian writer/director Ritesh Batra’s debut feature unfolds among Mumbai’s dabba industry. Every day, a fleet of every imaginable form of land transport fans out around Mumbai delivering homecooked lunches to workers’ desks in tiffin dishes. Insurance assessor Saajan (Irrfan Khan) opens his tiffin set and finds it’s not his usual order. In fact, it’s scrumptious. When Ila (Nimrat Kaur) opens the empty dishes, she’s gobsmacked. Every skerrick has been eaten. This comes as a surprise; lately, her husband Rajeev (Nakul Vaid) hasn’t been paying attention to her cooking.
From that discovery, a correspondence slowly develops between neglected Ila and widowed Saajan who, as he approaches retirement, is charged with training new clerk Shaikh (Nawazuddin Siddiqui) to succeed him.
The story grows out of notes concealed in the tiffin set and Saajan’s issues with a replacement whose reliability and punctuality aren’t great. Ila and Saajan have never met. There is a prospect of the pair leaving the city for a rural life together. The film’s resolution is tantalisingly incomplete, but what has preceded it sends us out glad that Indian cinema practitioners prepared to shun Bollywood hoopla in telling satisfying stories still do it well.
At Palace Electric
Shogun Restaurant offers superb Japanese cuisine. Combing the Japanese classic favourite of SUKIYAKI, SHABU-SHABU, SUSHI, SASHIMI, TEMPURA ETC, and TEPPANYAKI.
Phone: 6248 8888
1st Floor, Garema Centre, 70 Bunda Street, Canberra City www.shogunrestaurant.com.au
Helen Musa
Miles Thompson (as Jeremy) and Alex McPherson (Cindy) in “The Rokitelly Man”.
Photo by Nick Brightman
“Venus in Fur” (MA)
Dougal Macdonald cinema
Cullen heads to the bar
By Helen Musa
IGNORANCE is bliss when Max Cullen and I chat about the new play he’s in, “Bartleby: He’d prefer not”, written by Canberra playwright Julian Hobba.
Cullen gets to play an old lawyer through whose eyes the tale is told and he cheerfully admits he knows absolutely nothing about the law, except what he’s learned from a couple of divorces.
He also knows nothing about the “commercial law thing”, or about anything commercial, except that he once did a commercial [“Oils Ain’t Oils”], “but we won’t talk about that”.
I’m worse than Cullen. Although I have been thoroughly grounded in “Moby Dick” and “Billy Budd”, I’m ignorant about “Bartleby” – inspired by Herman Melville’s 1853 novel “Bartleby, the Scrivener: A Story of Wall Street” –and in shame, rush to read the story as
soon as I finish talking to Cullen.
I find he’s summed it up pretty well.
The pivotal character, Bartleby, is a staffer hired by a commercial law firm (in the Australian adaptation) who proves, Cullen says, to be “a terrific asset and a profoundly good worker… until the pressure gets too much and he becomes catatonic… that’s where the drama begins”.
As Cullen sees it, Bartleby’s psychological seizure causes him to refuse to engage with anybody. Indeed, his key phrase is “I prefer not”.
Bartleby prefers not to do any writing, he prefers not to answer questions. He prefers not to leave the office and eventually has to be physically removed to a place where he prefers not to eat. Cullen has a couple of weeks to rehearse the play so has relocated
temporarily from nearby Gunning to take up a residency at Gorman House. While it’s true that Cullen has been getting a lot of work in films in recent years, notably in “Gatsby”, he’s now doing a two-man show with Warren Fahey about Henry Lawson and Banjo Paterson hanging around at the Pearly Gates, an excuse to talk about the good old “Bulletin” days.
Cullen has better-than-guarded praise for Hobba, whose script he was astonished to find is very good. As well, he is very impressed that Hobba is starting the new Aspen Island Theatre Company which, as he says, “might have parts for a decrepit old bloke”. All actors look towards their next role.
“Bartleby: He’d prefer not”, at The Street Theatre, July 26 to August 3. Bookings to thestreet.org.au or 6247 1223.
Burlesque’s trio of titillation
AFTER months of silence on the burlesque front, Canberra has three glittery shows on the same night. Coming to The Abbey on July 26 – and produced by Sarina del Fuego and Lola LaBelle – are two separate shows, “Burlesque Idol” at 6.30pm and “Noir Revue” at 10pm. Bookings to theabbey.com.au
And at the Canberra Irish Club from 7pm on the same night, local entertainers from Miss Kitka’s House of Burlesque will perform in “Searchlights and Sirens: Minnie the Moocher”. Bookings to eventbrite.com.au
BROOCHES for blokes? Bilk Gallery’s latest exhibit, “Bro..och”, is hell-bent on “banishing the long-held stigma of the brooch”. At Bilk Gallery, Palmerston Lane, Manuka, until August 9.
BANDLEADER Geoff Grey tells us 900 people turned up to the last free concert at the High Court, so it might be best to get there early on Sunday, July 20, when Therese Knight, Carmel McDonell and Amanda MacKenzie of
Helen Musa arts in the city
Gracenotes perform, followed by mandolin ensemble COZMO. At the High Court, 1pm-2.30pm.
CANBERRA Academy of Dramatic Art’s first graduating class of advanced diploma of performance students will showcase work to industry reps on July 22. CADA is accepting applications for semester two and details are at cada.net.au
WESLEY Music Centre has the distinguished FilipinoAmerican pianist Dr Jovanni-Rey V. de Pedro, performing works by Argentine master Alberto Ginastera, 12.40pm1.20pm, on Wednesday, July 23. Entry is $5 minimum, concession $2 at the door. Dr de Pedro will also conduct master classes and lecture at St. Alban’s, Lyons, 9.30am1pm, on Saturday, July 26. Information at actka.org
FAMILY is everything for the owners/ operators of La Rustica, a laid back Italian eatery that operated for 25 years on Kennedy Street, Kingston. And family remains everything at its recently opened location at Kingston Foreshore. Katrina Spadafora and Peter Callipari, brother and sister, are familiar faces. Their father Tony is the pizza chef and mother Maria is very much involved. Katrina’s husband Giuseppe is a chef and Peter’s wife Bianca serves customers. Other family members are also on board. You can “feel the love”.
The fit out cost a pretty penny. It is a rustic look with warm woodwork, stonework and a comfy bar for enjoying a drink before dinner. The floor-toceiling windows are an added bonus for the view.
My favourite carpaccio remains and I have had it three times at the lake location – raw veal cured with lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salty capers, rocket and parmesan ($18.90). I adore it, although on one visit the lemon was overpowering.
The pasta list is extensive and if you are a Balmain bug fan, order the spaghetti with creamy shallot, garlic and white wine sauce ($26.90). New is the spaghetti Nero, which I recommend if you like a bit of kick ($22.90). This homemade squid ink spaghetti is tossed with shallots, chili, garlic, white wine, extra virgin olive oil and tomato sugo. I became
an immediate fan.
A friend ordered the good old spaghetti primavera (vegan). By design, this is not a super inspiring dish if you are looking for tonnes of hefty flavour, but it is healthy and loaded with veggies. And another ordered the scallopine saltimbocca ($28.90), veal topped with sage butter and a white wine sauce. It is a mild but pleasant dish, with the sage butter a feature.
Mains cover all the bases ($28.90 to $36.90), including seafood, lamb, chicken and beef. They are generous and best tackled if you have lots of room.
The wine list has expanded at the new La Rustica, which is a good thing. And if you love sweet endings you won’t be disappointed. La Rustica, open seven days for lunch and dinner. Corner Eastlake Parade and Trevillian Quay. Call 6295 0152. IN last week’s dining review, Wendy Johnson faithfully reported Parlour Wine Bar’s lunchtime opening hours, but its website was wrong. Lunch at Parlour is from Tuesday to Sunday noon-3pm, not from Thursday.
WENDY JOHNSON
La Scala Italian Restaurant
Celebrating 25 years of excellence and welcomed as an accredited member restaurant to The Academy of Italian Cuisine for accurately displaying Italian culinary traditions and innovations.
Cinema Building, Garema Place, Canberra City
Actors Max Cullen, left, and Dene Kermond in “Bartleby: He’d prefer not”, at The Street Theatre.
Photo by David Flannery
Creating Sustainable Gardens
gardening The real facts about fertiliser
I am often asked about the use of chemical fertilisers, particularly the question: ‘Can I use tomato food on my camellias?’
FRUIT TREES
PROMOTING fertilisers is big business with colourful pictures of plants on the packet.
You walk into the garden centre or DIY store and think: “I have tomatoes, so I had better buy tomato food, likewise food for my camellias, roses, native plants etcetera.”
The tills are ringing with all the bags of different plant foods you have just bought! But, do you really need all those different ones? I am often asked about the use of chemical fertilisers, particularly the question: “Can I use tomato food on my camellias?”
The essential ingredients of plant food, namely nitrogen (for leaf growth), phosphorus (root growth) and potassium (flowers and fruit) are shown, respectively, on the back of every packet as N, P and K.
A look at the comparisons of one popular fertiliser brand reveals there isn’t much difference.
If you have a surplus of one fertiliser, and before it all goes solid in the bag, use it on other plants. Alternatively, tip all the different fertilisers into a big plastic garbage bin and mix all together.
The only exception is to ensure the plant food for Australian plants is low in Phosphorus (P). Apply fertilisers, like all things, in moderation and always keep back from the stems or trunks.
In any case, I still recommend using certified organic plant foods rather than chemical foods for environmental reasons. Don’t start the spring fertilising program before the end of August to early September.
Fertilisers… how different are they really?
THE use of Latin names for plants is still questioned in this day and age, but using their common names often just doesn’t work.
The Latin name provides a great deal of information about the plant, for example Daphne aureomarginata describes the leaves as with a golden edge.
Here’s a classic example of the misunderstandings that arise from just using the common name.
When we owned a nursery in Yass, a customer asked for “Snow in Summer”.
“Certainly,” I said and showed her Cerastium tomentosum, a low-spreading ground cover.
“It is quite obvious you do not know your plants,” she retorted. “‘Snow in Summer’ is a tall shrub or small tree and that is what I am looking for.”
“Absolutely correct,” I replied, “have a look on the label, Melaleuca linariifolia is also called ‘Snow in Summer’.”
The lesson is that if the lady had used the correct Latin name we could have immediately given her the plant she wanted.
Also, it’s often useless using part of the Latin name, such as which can apply to many varieties of trees.
Spire”. This may avoid confusion for you ending up with the wrong plant.
DAVID Kennedy, from Clover Hill Rare Plants, Katoomba is the guest speaker at the Horticultural Society of Canberra’s meeting at the Wesley Uniting Church Centre, National Circuit, Forrest, 7.30pm, on Monday, July 21. A selection of his rare bulbs and perennials will be discussed with plants for sale. All welcome, no charge and supper provided.
Jottings...
• Dig organic matter into the veggie garden in readiness for spring. Pulverised cow manure is excellent.
• With regular rain, bulbs will not need any additional watering.
• Sand and treat with linseed oil all wooden handles on garden tools.
• Cut back salvias to ground level and divide for extra plants.
Fleming’s Nursery catalogue lists 50 trees with the Latin name Prunus. Were you to order Pru nus at the garden centre, they would ask: “Do you mean Prunus mume flowering apricot or Prunus cerasus the sour cherry or Prunus persica can be both a fruiting and a flowering peach”.
It is always preferable to use a combination of Latin and common English names if you are looking for a particular plant. As an example
Prunus cerasifera “Oakville Crimson
Latin and common name... Malus floribunda aka “Japanese Crabapple”.
puzzles page
Joanne Madeline Moore
your week in the stars – July 21-27, 2014
ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)
The weekend New Moon falls in fellow fire sign Leo, so you’ll feel super energetic and enthusiastic. It’s the ideal time to start that mammoth project, pull on your running shoes, hit the gym or turn up the music (loud!) and dance. Mighty Mars (your ruling planet) shifts into Scorpio (from July 26-September 14) which boosts your business acumen and intensifies your sensuality.
TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)
Have you been procrastinating Bulls? Are there jobs around the house that you’ve been putting off? The New Moon encourages you to roll up your sleeves and get to work. Family and home life are where you need to make some changes and adjustments – the sooner the better. So it’s the perfect time to add value to your residence via repairs, renovations or a quick paint job.
GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)
The week begins with confusion and complications, but apart from a minor hiccup on Friday morning you’ll become more settled and grounded as the week progresses. On the weekend, the New Moon urges you to find fresh ways to connect with those around you whether at home, at work or in your local neighbourhood. You have the Gemini gift of the gab so don’t waste it!
CANCER (June 22 – July 22)
Imagination and innovation are the secrets to getting ahead at work. Looking for employment? Present yourself as an individual who stands out from the crowd. The New Moon’s stimulating your self-esteem zone, so you’re keen to improve your physical appearance. Enjoy updating your outer image, but remember that true beauty and confidence come from within.
LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)
With Friday’s Sun/Jupiter conjunction (and the New Moon in your sign on the weekend) confident, charismatic Cats are ready to sparkle and shine! Then Jupiter links up with the Moon on Sunday, so you’re definitely in the mood for excess. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great Mick Jagger (who has four planets in Leo): “Anything worth doing is worth overdoing.”
VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)
The New Moon and Jupiter activate your zone of memories, secrets and solitude (plus Pluto opposes Mercury) so be careful you don’t become obsessed with people, situations or beliefs that are well past their use-by date. As birthday great Mick Jagger declared: “I must be careful not to get trapped in the past.” It’s time to wipe the slate clean and start all over again.
LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)
Librans are the fashionistas of the zodiac. As Venus (planet of fashion and beauty) moves through your public/reputation zone, it’s worth remembering that the secret to your style is eternal elegance. The weekend New Moon helps jolt you out of Libra laidback mode, and into productive working mode. Contributing to a joint venture or group project brings long-lasting satisfaction.
SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)
On Tuesday, resist the temptation to be drawn into an argument between friends. If you get involved, it will only make matters worse. Mars moves through your sign (from Saturday until September 14) which magnifies your motivation, self-discipline and sex appeal but it also amps up your stubborn side. Just remember, a little bit of Scorpio intensity goes a very long way!
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)
Friday’s Sun/Jupiter aspect and Sunday’s New Moon blast you out of a rut, and compel you to view the world from a fresh perspective. Travel, study and education are all favoured, as you head off in an adventurous new direction. Be inspired by fellow Sagittarian Mark Twain: “Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)
Friday is your pick of the week as you confirm a deal, consolidate a joint venture or step in and stabilise a shaky relationship or group situation. Attached Capricorns - have you been arguing with your partner? Venus encourages you to swallow your pride, make the first move, and hold out the olive branch of peace. Single Goats – get ready to kick up your heels and circulate in style.
AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)
Your mercurial mind is firing on Friday but slow down before you blow a brain fuse! Are your close relationships going nowhere fast? Do you feel like you’re reacting to others as if you’re on auto-pilot? Saturday’s New Moon provides a golden opportunity to patch things up and start afresh. It’s the ideal time to resuscitate a tired old romance – or navigate an exciting new one!
PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)
Attached Fish - romance is in the air on Wednesday so it’s a wonderful evening for candle-lit dining and dancing. Single Fish – look for love with a tender Taurus or a caring Cancer. But have you been feeling dismally disorganised? Is your work or home routine letting you down? Perhaps it’s time to tune into the energy of the New Moon and try a dramatically different approach. Daily astrology updates at www.twitter.com/JoMadelineMoore Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2014
General knowledge crossword No. 461
Across
1 Name the Australian prime minister 1967-68, Sir John ...?
8 What are countries, entirely surrounded by other countries?
9 Name a class of West Indian mysterious rites
10 Name a large, long-tailed, gallinaceous bird
11 To which plant family does wheat, rye, or the like, belong?
13 What are elected representatives of a municipality?
16 Who trained Makybe Diva to win the Melbourne Cup three times?
19 What do we call a small air-breathing arthropod?
22 Name a San Francisco Bay island, the site of a former US prison
24 Name the second book of the Old Testament
25 What do we call a native of Edinburgh?
26 Which other term describes perfumes?
2 What is a prolonged clear bush call used as a signal to attract attention?
3 A golf club used for playing a ball which has landed in a bunker is called a sand ...?
4 What is a new growth of different tissue?
5 Which imperial unit of land measurement is equal to 160 perches?
6 Who conquered Britain in 55 BC?
7 What is a meeting of people seeking to communicate with spirits of the dead?
12 That which is fully grown or developed is said to be what?
14 Name a less familiar term for inhabitants
15 What is another word for a labyrinth?
17 What are surviving memorials of things past?
18 When one decrees, one does what?
20 What describes a set of twenty?
21 What is a container for vinegar?
23 Romulus was the legendary founder of which city?
