140925 citynews

reBeKAh SPAnn meets the teenage table tennis star who hasn’t lost a match in nine months and has his eyes set on the rio olympic games

TEENAGE table tennis champion

Rohan Dhooria is aiming to be “number one in the Olympics”.

And it is the passion to improve and the feeling he gets when he catches up to older and more experienced players that’s inspiring the 14-year-old to aim for gold in Rio in 2016.

First he has to qualify for the Australian team next year, but Rohan has not lost a match in nine months, is number one in the ACT and is currently ranked number five in the nation.

He is also the Under 15 Champion in NSW and Victoria, and recently won the NSW Under 18 Championships where “I conquered my fears and beat my rivals,” says Rohan.

After beginning in the fourth division three years ago, Rohan has worked his way up to first division, and is the first player from the ACT to rate in the top five in Australia.

According to his co-coach of more than two years, Xiaoping Sun, it is rare to get to that level in such a short time.

A former player and a State-level coach in China, she hopes he can get into a national team and represent Australia – “Even better if he could represent Australia for the Olympics and beat the Chinese player,” she says.

Rohan’s mother first discovered

Table Tennis ACT, which offers junior coaching and training on Saturdays during school terms, and took Rohan and his older brother Raj along. But it was his father who encouraged him to compete in the interstate competitions that have become yet more triumphs in a procession of accomplishments.

His strategy for winning is to be an offensive attacker, to take control and to play close to the table. “Oh, and I don’t give up in a match,” Rohan says. He also wears bright-coloured sneakers – one orange and one yellow.

The mental training is a big part of table tennis, Rohan says, and his dad, Jimmi, helps a lot with this.

“Because there are 11 points, you have to fight for each of those points. If you lose one that’s nearly 10 per cent of the game gone,” Rohan says.

“When I play the top players I’m kind of in their face trying to get every point.”

But it is facing older and more experienced players that Rohan enjoys about the sport.

“I like the feeling when you catch up,” he says.

“Because I started later than everyone else, they’re just in denial after that… Someone lower than them, that they beat three to zero and thrashed, comes up and beats them.”

National prizes

HOTEL Realm, East Hotel and Lucky’s at QT Canberra have won national accolades at the Australian Hotels Association National Awards for Excellence at the Gold Coast. Hotel Realm won Best Meetings and Events Venue for the third year in a row; East Hotel won Best Suite/Apartment Hotel for the second consecutive year and Lucky’s at QT Canberra was awarded Best Bar Presentation and Service (Regional).

Top of the ratings

CANBERRA Girls Grammar School

Early Learning Centre is the first children’s education and care service in the ACT to be awarded the “Excellent” rating from the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority. The rating is the highest an education and care service can achieve under the National Quality Framework.

New O’Connor centre

“He perfects all my weaknesses, skills, footwork – he strives to make me a better player,” says Rohan.

Looking to the future, Rohan seems unfazed by the task of qualifying for the Olympics, even though he will be only 16 by then. His determination and love of the game seems to be all the certainty he needs right now. That and coaching from his other coach, Bruno Levis, Chile’s number one table tennis player.

More information at tabletennis.org.au

ST. Philip’s Anglican Church in O’Connor has opened the Lamerton Centre, a new community outreach centre, for its work with disadvantaged members of the local community and the large group of Dinka families (South Sudanese refugees) who are members of St. Philip’s congregation. The centre also houses the parish’s op-shop.

Since 1993: Volume 20, number 36

Arts & entertainment 29-31

Canberra Confidential 18

Cinema 30

Dining 31

garden 34-35

horoscope 33

letters 10

news 3-12

Politics 8 Puzzles 33

Socials 19-21

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Big chair comes with a bigger job

HECK of a way for the new ASIO director-general, Duncan Lewis, to begin his tenure at the top.

Was it really necessary for Pm tony Abbott to cut short his long-delayed foray to Arnhem land to farewell Australian air force personnel headed for the middle east? seven days

The police raids in Sydney and Brisbane were no doubt planned while David Irvine occupied the big chair. But they were just the beginning of a war of attrition against the Jihadis at home and abroad.

Fortunately, Duncan Lewis is no stranger to testing times. His career in Australia’s Special Forces will have prepared him well for the long haul ahead.

However, Canberrans could be forgiven for a bemused confusion in parsing the warnings from Territory police chief Rudi Lammers

“The community doesn’t need to be concerned, and doesn’t need to be startled,” he said. “But it needs to be continually alert to the possibilities of a government-stated terrorist attack likelihood.”

A simple declarative sentence wouldn’t go astray, Rudi.

AND was it really necessary for PM Tony Abbott to cut short his long-delayed foray to Arnhem Land to farewell Australian air force personnel headed for the Middle East? It couldn’t possibly be that he figures there’s more votes in a photo op with the troops than with our Aboriginal predecessors.

Oh, perish the thought.

WHATEVER possessed Katy Gallagher to back her Minister for Corrections Shane Rattenbury in his “commitment” to the free-needle program at Canberra’s jail?

It’s a logical absurdity; surely a stretch in prison gives inmates the chance to toss the habit; the free-needle policy not only feeds the addiction it encourages non-users to take it up. And how are the prison officers expected to respond?

It clearly implies that drugs will somehow be supplied to prisoners, yet their jailers are sacked for turning a blind eye or prosecuted for doing so themselves. Madness.

NORFOLK Islanders who vote in the Seat of Canberra in federal elections have decided to have their own vote on same-sex marriage.

Gay Cam Christian, one of the many descendants of Fletcher who led the mutiny on the Bounty, is driving the “yes” case in the Island’s Legislative Assembly. And why not? Since practically all the former Pitcairners are related, they’d just be keeping it in the family anyway.

WHAT a refreshing “Q&A” program when some of our more distinguished scientists replaced the politicians and other sectional partisans normally on the show. The pity is that science itself has been marginalised, whereas it really governs every aspect of our lives. Climate change didn’t surface till the last question. If only members of the Abbott Government were watching they’d have hung their heads in shame.

REVELATIONS that foreign diplomats in Canberra are misusing their legal immunity by driving drunk and

ROBERT MACKLIN

dangerous are hardly new. But they do highlight the absurdity of some aspects of the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The privileges granted to diplomats by the Australian head of state are designed simply “to ensure that they may effectively carry out their duties”. This should not mean they can endanger the lives of Canberrans by driving under the influence.

ON a happier note, a visit to Floriade revealed our premier festival has lost none of its charm. And the food served in the cafes is better (and quicker) than ever. Five stars!

robertmacklin.com

Fresh produce will be a way of life

ASPARAGUS

Many a gardener makes a daily inspection, in early Spring, to see if the first spears of asparagus have poked through the ground. When the asparagus is up, you know the ground is warming and the vegetable growing season has truly begun. Expect to harvest from mid-Spring through early Summer, depending on the climate and weather.

In vegetable gardens and kitchens around the country, signs of Spring are all around. Make use of your fresh, vibrant new vegetables and fruits that will be grown in the shared vegetable garden at Chelsea in O’Connor with the following guide.

ORANGES

Citrus flower buds begin to form in early Winter and develop through late Winter and Spring. Citrus trees are some of the easiest fruit trees to grow in your vegetable garden, terrace or courtyard. Their popularity is deserved; they are ornamental yet productive, have handsome shiny green leaves and fragrant flowers, and they add wonderful flavours when cooking.

SPINACH

Spinach is one of the most satisfying cool-weather crops to grow, producing large yields of vitamin-rich, dark green leaves that are excellent for salads and for cooking. Since both hot weather and long days trigger spinach to seed quickly, the secret to success with this crop is to make frequent plantings as soon as possible in Spring.

A boy, a girl and a passion for pallets

ANITA Jones and Carlo Malaca are in love – with each other and the humble wooden shipping pallet.

Together they have tackled close to 1000 pallets, de-nailing them, tearing them apart, tidying them up and transforming them into statement pieces of furniture for any space, each time demonstrating how something that would normally be discarded can be created anew and built to last.

They do so through boyandgirlco, the Canberra company they founded after doing what many would think insane – quitting secure full-time jobs for the unknown.

The major transformation in their lives started when the couple, while driving home after a weekend in Sydney, decided “enough was enough”. They had dined at Kitchen by Mike in Rosebery, a simple canteen serving honest food. No fancy-pants restaurant dining. Nothing pretentious about the place.

Anita and Carlo felt at home in the canteen and were fascinated with the raw wood pallets used in the décor. They decided to adopt a similar philosophy and “waste not, want not”. Simplicity would be their aim, starting with their living environment. They sold their bulky Balinese-style furniture and replaced it with furniture they made with their bare hands out of recycled wood shipping pallets.

Anita Jones and Carlo malaca founded a company after doing what many would think insane – quitting secure full-time jobs for the unknown, writes WenDy JohnSon

Working initially out of their garage, Anita and Carlo created their first piece, with no carpentry training and a few basic hand tools.

“Looking back, the huge dining table we cobbled together was overly ambitious for a first project and ‘clumsy to the max’,” says Carlo.

“But it was soul satisfying and confirmed we had made the right decision.”

A few pieces later, and with confidence building, the couple found friends and family placing orders and realised they had a business in the making.

When bursting at the seams, boyandgirlco moved out of the 40-squaremetre home garage and into warehouse space that was twice as big but soon after outgrew that space, too.

In August the company set up home in a 485-square-metre space in Mitchell, combining a massive workshop, office and future showroom.

Boyandgirlco source pallets mainly from importers but refuse to use those treated with chemicals.

“Importers are willing to give us pallets since it saves them time and money in returning or disposing of them,” says Carlo.

“We end up providing them with a service and helping the environment by avoiding the pallets ending up in landfill. We’ve seen it ourselves in a local waste management centre. On one visit we saw a mountain of wood piled at least five metres high and about 20 metres across. What a waste.”

Boyandgirlco now includes Graham Rose, who designs and is head builder, and Victor Tawagi, who handles marketing and communications. The team does all the work themselves. It is physically demanding but rewarding to refurbish, repurpose and rehome.

The standard range of furniture is growing steadily and includes coffee tables, an eight-seater dining table, office desk, light box with storage and planter boxes.

“We call it our standard range but in reality no two pieces are alike because no two pallets are alike,” says Carlo. “Each piece has its own character.”

Boyandgirlco also handles custom orders and, to date, custom pieces include a fruit market stand for Autolyse Bakery’s juice bar in Braddon, which includes fruit crates and stools that pack away into a lockable main unit.

For homeowners, boyandgirlco have

made a sofa table, tripod side table, entrance table with slots to store footwear, queen-size bed head, light box with shelf and a 4.8 metre-long vertical garden with built-in planter boxes.

Anita and Carlo have never looked back and have much to look forward to, including boyandgirlco’s first exhibition – “anew” (October 10-October 26, Nishi Gallery, New Acton).

Playing the political advantage in crises

ONE humanitarian crisis facing Australia has political advantage, the other does not.

In one crisis the government responds to an international request for help by sending troops and planes overseas, with “security” action in Australia and an injection of hundreds of millions of dollars.

In the other the government responds by declining the request for troops, making a small financial contribution and ensuring readiness at home. The responses are disproportionate.

The Prime Minister, Tony Abbott, has assured the community that the government will deploy all the resources needed to keep Australians safe. This is at a time he has been feeling the polling pressure as his popularity wanes and he is exposed again and again for breaking promises he made before the election.

British PM, Margaret Thatcher, illustrated just how useful wars are for politicians who are behind in the polls.

Before April, 1982, Thatcher was polling as the UK’s single most unpopular prime minister. She then assembled a British Task Force which was successful in retaking the Falkland Islands from Argentina’s military junta led by Gen Leopoldo Galtieri. The following year she won a landslide election and continued in office until 1990.

The first contingent of SAS troops has left Brisbane for Iraq and the

it is a shame that the government does not have the same attitude to all of the people suffering and dying in the wake of the ebola crisis in West Africa.

intention is to deploy 600 military personnel and eight Super Hornets as well as other planes to the United Arab Emirates with a cost estimated at around half a billion dollars a year.

The Treasurer, Joe Hockey, who has been arguing since he came to government about the Budget also being in crisis, added his support for the expenditure saying: “Ultimately you can’t put a price on protecting human beings and that’s what we’re doing”.

It is a shame that the government does not have the same attitude to all of the people suffering and dying in the wake of the Ebola crisis in West Africa. This is a humanitarian crisis. They also need protection. Although it’s clear that it is not so politically useful, there is a dire need for troops, professionals and money – a similar contribution that Australia is making to fight the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.

Australia has reacted on the Ebola front. Foreign Minister Bishop and Health Minister Dutton put up a million dollars at the early stages of the Ebola infection. Last week

they added another $7 million. Dutton has also reassured Australians that our own country is in appropriate preparedness with a co-ordinated approach between the Commonwealth chief medical officer, Prof Chris Baggoley, and his State and Territory counterparts.

However, the investment so far is a drop in the bucket. Infections like this do not respect borders as we learnt from the avian and swine flu epidemics.

The Ebola virus outbreak was declared a “Public Health Emergency of International Concern” on August 8, and the World Health Organization released an Ebola Response Roadmap on August 28 with a request of over half a billion Australian dollars.

Just three weeks later the UN secretary general, Ban Ki-moon called for a billion dollars. On September 19, the UN Security Council unanimously declared the Ebola outbreak a “threat to international peace and security”. He added that this, “the largest outbreak

of Ebola in history”, demands “the attention of the world” and requires “unprecedented” action.

Australia responded quickly to the crisis in Iraq where it is politically convenient. Its response on Ebola is entirely inconsistent.

It is time for Australia to step up, provide appropriate troops and equipment, deploy our Ausmat health team (that was used so successfully during the Philippine’s disaster), assemble appropriately qualified civilians and make a really significant financial contribution. Real action is needed before this Ebola crisis gets even worse.

Michael Moore was an independent member of the ACT Legislative Assembly

VALUATION DAY IN CANBERRA

PUBLIC NOTICE

Kidney walk raffle winners

Winners of the Canberra Big Red Kidney Walk 2014 Raffle (permit R 14/00231) drawn on September 21 are: First prize: R Synnott, of Richardson, two nights’ accommodation at the Gold Coast hinterland; second: Michael Jepson, Canberra, signed GWS jersey; third: Carol Johnston, Duffy, restaurant voucher and, fourth, Wal Glennon, Duffy, box of chocolates.

Fijians celebrate

A FIJI Day celebration dinner with the theme “Shipwrecked” will be held at the Theo Notaras Multicultural Centre, Civic, 6.30pm-10pm, on Saturday, October 4. Hosted by the Fiji Australia Association of ACT and the Fiji High Commission, the evening’s entertainment will include cultural dance performances, a band, prizes for the best-dressed adults and children, lucky door and raffle. Tickets or more information from fijiaustassoc@gmail.com.

Cupcake queen

AT Lanyon Marketplace from 9am on October 5, Lydia Aislabie is holding her fourth Pink Ribbon cupcake drive in aid of the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Each year she raises more than $1000 from baking over 400 cupcakes and selling hundreds of helium balloons.

Lunchtime music

THE Rotary Club of Ginninderra hosts a monthly “Lunchtime Melodies” at the Raiders Belconnen club, Hardwick Crescent, Kippax. The October 8 event features the female barbershop ensemble, the Canberra Harmony Chorus and the mixed harmony group, the Shiraz Quartet. The show runs from 11.30am to 12.30pm; gold coin donation and all welcome.

President Roy

ROY Clogstoun has been elected president of the Australia-Thailand Association (Canberra) for 2014-15. A former officer of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Roy served at the Australian Embassy in Thailand from 1998-2001. Cephas Griswold was elected vice president, Peter Siripol, secretary, and Attaya Lane, treasurer.

Wishes from trivia

CANBERRA’S Make-A-Wish branch is hosting a fundraising trivia night at the Belconnen Labor Club, on Chandler Street, from 6.30pm, Friday, October 17. Entry is $20 per person and tables seat 8-10 people. Tickets at the door. Make-A-Wish Australia is the only children’s charity that focuses solely on wish granting.

Saluting Canberra’s green landmarks

AUSTRALIAN property companies are streets ahead when it comes to sustainability – and Canberra has the green landmarks to prove it.

The newly launched 2014 Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark survey finds that Australian companies outpaced their international peers in all aspects of sustainability.

GRESB collects information on the sustainability performance of property companies and funds, analysing data from 56,000 buildings worth $A2.3 trillion.

This year the survey found that 70 per

Catherine Carter property

cent of Australia’s property companies fall into the top quadrant for commitment to sustainability – GRESB calls them “Green Stars”. In comparison, 35 per cent of European companies, and 32 per cent of North American and Asian companies were named Green Stars.

The report also celebrates two Australian companies as “global green leaders”: ISPT and Lend Lease.

ISPT’s careful restoration of 2 National Circuit in Barton has preserved one of the grand old dames of our city’s architecture, and elevated it to sustainability superstardom. The building, that was once the Patents Office and is now the RM Hope Building, was rewarded with the 2013 ACT Development of the Year. In fact, National Circuit is lined with sustainable office space.

Lend Lease’s work on the Harry Seidler-designed Edmund Barton Building has ensured it meets the contemporary requirements of a modern office, while

driving down carbon emissions, reducing energy and water use and limiting waste. These are just two examples – but serve as reminders that our office buildings are more than repositories for partitions and cubicles. This investment in sustainability is being recognised around the world, it’s also paying environmental dividends, providing more secure returns to investors and helping us to create a Canberra for the 21st century.

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

Keep the faith, stay alert

Crisis? What crisis?

BEGINNING in May 2013, throughout the election and periodically peppered in media bites since then, now-PM Abbott and now-Treasurer Hockey talked up the “budget crisis” and “budget emergency”.

Hockey promised to “shape policy that gives people money in their pockets, and [give us] a stable environment.” (May, 2013).

So who funds the 600 military personnel, eight F-16s, one each Wedgetail and KC-130 to be stationed in the UAE? Who buys the bombs and bullets, the fuel and food? Who pays for the personnel here in Australia supporting our remote warriors?

Yes, ISIS may be the “worst of the worst”, but how can Australia afford this new military adventure, on far-away soil, at someone else’s beckoning?

From which already-strapped, Australian-community pockets will the millions or billions come? And how will this military adventure give us a stable environment?

Judy Bamberger, O’Connor

Specialising in Non-Surgical, anti-aging treatments.

Over 30,000 clients successfully treated last year

So the next time they raise our terrorism alert level to high, i guess we’ll know there’s something on.

What an amazing week – Australia didn’t lose its innocence during those police raids last Thursday, but we awoke from our dewy-eyed slumber to the realisation that the world isn’t as nice as we thought it was.

For the first time since the Bali bombing and the attacks on 9/11, we were forcibly reminded that there are those among us who wish to perpetrate evil. We were reminded that our freedoms can so easily be taken away in a moment. Could these mongrels seriously target Parliament House? Of course they could and they will, if given the chance.

I am astounded at the number of people on social media who seem to believe that the terror raids were some sort of Tony Abbott-led conspiracy.

They think there was no threat and that, as a nation, we were being racist to these poor, defenceless, peaceful Muslims.

I get so frustrated by the way that many in this town see every single news event as a battle between the left and the right. They believe that whatever this government does must be wrong because Tony Abbott is the Prime Minister and they’re completely at odds with his ideology.

If the FBI and the CIA had undertaken massive early-morning raids across America in August, 2000; if they had arrested dozens of men and claimed that these men were about to hijack jets and fly into the World Trade Centre and the Pentagon, those same people crying “beat-up” online today would never have believed them. They would still be talking about the World Trade Centre plot as a George W. Bush conspiracy designed to frighten the American public into falling into line!

CAP did the job

FOLLOWING inaction by the letters editor of “The Canberra Times” to correct information included in a letter from ex- Kate Lundy staffer, Vic Adams (CT, letters, September 9) that claimed that the Community Alliance Party (CAP), had “achieved nothing whatsoever” since its public launch in March, 2008, I now turn to your community-based magazine to correct the record.

If British police had pre-emptively arrested the killers of Lee Rigby, many would not have believed their evil plans were real. It’s not time to panic. I think it’s time to have some faith in our intelligence and those agencies that react to it.

Mark Parton is the breakfast presenter on 2CC

The reason that I was first approached to assist in forming the party was because the Stanhope Government had a majority and was ignoring any attempt to consult on issues of importance to various groups of ACT citizens. The CAP ran in the 2008 ACT election (not 2012 as Adams quotes), received 7676 votes and achieved 7.7 per cent of Brindabella votes, 3.2 per cent in Ginninderra and 1.1 per cent in Molonglo, which cannot be said to be “nothing whatsoever”.

Our aim of assisting in the removal of the majority Stanhope Government was achieved and had the Motorists Party accepted my offer for us to co-operate, we would have had at least one MLA in Brindabella. More importantly, we wanted to help to run the ACT in a non-confrontational, community-council style.

Ric Hingee, Duffy

Comparing Gillard

FURTHER to your revelation about former PM Julia Gillard’s Canberra book signing on December 23 a recent visit to Ballarat revealed that Ms Gillard’s edifice is due to be added to the “Avenue of Prime Ministers” during her visit to the fair city during October.

What do we have to do to make people understand that there is a genuine threat?

MARK PARTON

As to her book – ‘twill be interesting to compare Ms Gillard’s version to the warnings and predictions of her senior Labor colleagues, related in Paul Kelly’s book “Triumph and Demise”, that the coup on Kevin Rudd in June 2010 would lead to the downfall of both Kevin and Julia and to the detriment of Labor.

Len

Goodman, Flynn

lowbrow

Ignoring the inevitable lessons in probability

Lease documentation Time: 8:15am for a 8:30 start, 4.00pm conclusion Members: $550.00 Non-members: $700.00 Contact: rscott@propertyoz.com.au

THE human mind is not naturally good at understanding how probability works, and that’s increasingly a problem as cynical players work to exploit this chink in our intellectual armour.

Globally, cars killed 1.24 million people in the year 2010 compared to the five or six souls a year claimed by sharks. For some reason we fear, and in some cases hate, sharks but embrace cars in every aspect of our lives. I long for the day WA commences a car cull. (Sadly, the oft repeated claim that falling coconuts kill 150 people every year turns out to be an untrue urban myth).

Pop Quiz: Name a VC winner from the war in Afghanistan? Most people can name at least one of the four. But can you name the Australians killed in the fighting in Afghanistan? There are more than 40 of them. How about the wounded? All 256 of them.

We remember the gallantry and our minds skip over the cost, it’s an entirely natural and human thing to do, but it probably doesn’t help our decision making.

Closer to home, the gambling industry fleeces billions out of us every year because we can’t face the sheer gravitational certainty of the mathematics.

Even an innumerate, but sufficiently sceptical, mind should be able to figure it out looking at the opulent facility they are gambling in, marvel at the wealth of its owners, at the monumental payroll involved in the teeming staff, and ask: “If all that money is coming from the losses of the gamblers what hope have I got?”

Instead, we go quiet when we lose and we shout loud when we win.

The lotteries advertise with made up stories of a life of luxury after a big win. No-one tells the story of the pensioner who has spent tens of thousands in the course of their life buying little more than hope and the odd carefully calibrated minor win to keep the scent of blood in the nose.

Even closer still to home we have the myth of the pop-up shop.

Having done it myself, I would caution all but my worst enemies against trying to run an undercapitalised business.

THE gambler’s fallacy is the fallacy of assuming that short-term deviations from probability will be corrected in the short term”

But wealthy property developers can find an endless stream of hopeful dreamers willing to pay them rent for the chance to spend months of their lives scrimping and scraping, living without income, and worst of all cutting corners on their beloved product in the hope that any second now their luck is going to change. All the while their struggle is creating the “vibrant, quirky, edgy, street feel” that translates to cold hard cash for the developer.

Someone somewhere had a big win. “That pop-up shop is now a big brand with a chain of stores!” That’s all most of us look at. The human wreckage of the probable outcomes is not something we like to think about, so we don’t.

There are two morals here:

1. Learn how probability works and avail yourself of the endless statistics available on the internet.

2. If you find yourself playing a losing game, stop playing. Chances are bad luck is not the reason you’re losing.

John Griffiths is the online editor of citynews.com.au

JOHN GRIFFITHS

Weston Creek and Woden retune 7 October 2014 Tuggeranong and surrounds retune 9 October 2014

If you live in Weston Creek, Woden or Tuggeranong, you may find some TV channels missing on 7 and/or 9 October. To get your channels back, you’ll need to retune your TV or digital equipment.

This is part of the final step in Australia’s move to digital-only TV and it’s happening across Australia progressively until the end of 2014.

Viewers receiving their TV signal from Black Mountain Tower will retune later in the year.

Temporary outages affecting all channels may occur on or around the retune dates.

To find out if this is your retune date and to sign up for an SMS or email alert, visit the website.

How to retune

1 2 3 For most systems press the MENU/SETUP button on your remote, or refer to your manufacturer’s handbook.

Follow the prompts to retune and your TV should automatically find all channels.

You can now keep watching your favourite shows.

Creek and Woden retune 7 October 2014.

and surrounds retune 9 October 2014.

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Entries rush in to take up the Challenge

the 15th annual Canberra international riesling Challenge (CirC), which will be held between october 13 and 18, has attracted 494 entries from 239 wineries representing nine riesling-producing countries, making it the most prestigious wine event of its type in the southern hemisphere.

During the Challenge wines will be discussed, judged and promoted, along with educational seminars.

Three international and three Australian judges will adjudicate at the Albert Hall on October 14 to 16.

Chair of the juding panel is internationally recognised NZ winemaker, critic and consultant John Belsham, who will be joined by returning judges Alsace-based wine manager and judge, Valérie Dirringer, and Steffen Schindler, director of export marketing at the German Wine Institute.

Australian judges are Don Young, senior white winemaker at Orlando Wines, Peter Munro, senior winemaker at Leo Buring and Kerri Thompson, director/winemaker at Wines by KT.

CIRC chairman Ken Helm said the

combination of international and Australian judges provides the essential balance to judge the rieslings, which are entered from around the world, and cements the Riesling Challenge’s position as one of the major internationally recognised wine shows in the world.

“The Riesling Challenge has always prided itself on its ability to attract first class judges,” he says.

“Having three international judges again this year is indicative of our success in positioning the Challenge as a leader in the industry.”

This year’s Riesling Challenge has again attracted strong interest in the associate judges positions, demonstrating the popularity and success of the initiative introduced in 2008 as a way of training up-and-coming judges in the appreciation of the world of rieslings.

This year’s associate judges will include Steve Baraglia, from Pikes Wines (judged the Best Australian riesling at the 2013 Challenge), Nick Spencer from Eden Road Wines and John Hughes from Rieslingfreak and the winner of the 2013 CIRC

Encouragement Award for up and coming riesling winemakers.

There will be seminars on riesling excellence conducted by the National Wine and Grape Centre at Charles Sturt University, riesling master classes featuring presentations and tastings by international judges and Australian experts and a massive consumer tasting of all 494 wines.

A key feature that makes the show unique is the trade and consumer tasting that takes place after the show judging, giving the public a rare opportunity to taste a wide variety of high-quality wines from around the world that are not otherwise available in Australia.

Winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony on Friday, October 17.

Mr Helm says this very successful event in Canberra promotes riesling, and also improves the making and growing of the grape to the world by showcasing the capabilities of this versatile grape.

“There are few, if any, such wine promotions like it,” he says.

“The event is not just about judging wines, but the promotion of the riesling styles to the consumer, winemakers and sommeliers through seminars, master classes, food matching and a massive

consumer tasting.”

The CIRC aims to improve the quality of wines made from the riesling grape variety and to encourage the recognition and development of regional styles.

“We target the best riesling wines in the world and, by showcasing them, demonstrate the capabilities of this versatile grape,” says Mr Helm. “We judge on a regional level, to highlight the characteristics unique to the wine’s location in the world.”

Entrants compete for the prestigious The Best Wine of the Challenge – an award only given if the judges deem a wine to be exceptional in every aspect.

This year’s Challenge will see the presentation of the Wolf Blass Award, sponsored by the Wolf Blass Foundation.

This award is made every second year to recognise a person or organisation from Australia or NZ who has made a major contribution to the development and promotion of riesling. The name of the winner will be announced at the Awards Presentation Ceremony on October 17.

All the wines entered in the Challenge are promoted through the Riedel trade and consumer tasting at the Albert Hall on October 18.

Rare chances to learn more

The Canberra International Riesling Challenge presents rare chances to build your wine knowledge and enjoy tasting the world’s best rieslings, among Australia’s and the leading international riesling experts.

Wine E-Commerce Seminar, Hyatt Hotel, 8am10am, Friday, October 17. Hosted by Australia Post.

Cost $20 a ticket or free entry to attendees of the Riesling Excellence Seminar and/or Master Class.

Seminar on Riesling Excellence, convened by Charles Sturt University at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra, 10am-2.30pm, on Friday, October 17, light lunch included. Four leading wine experts will dispel some myths and tell of the latest developments in winemaking and the wine industry.

Cost $60 a ticket.

Riesling Master Class, Hyatt Hotel, 2.30pm4.30pm, Friday, October 17. The class will feature internationally recognised riesling experts who will guide participants through a range of rieslings from around the world.

Cost $85 a ticket.

Special price to attend two Seminars and the Master Class: $195, or the Riesling Excellence Seminar and Master Class for: $135.

The Awards Presentation Ceremony and Celebration of Riesling, Hyatt Hotel, from 6.30pm, Friday, October 17.

A chance to taste the award-winning wines and others from a museum collection matched with food selected by the Hyatt Hotel Canberra executive chef during the presentations. Limited tickets available at $80 each.

Riedel Trade and Consumer Tasting , Albert Hall, 11am-3pm, Saturday, October 18. Taste all the wines judged at the 2014 Canberra International Riesling Challenge.

Tickets $30, including souvenir Riedel tasting glass and official CIRC results catalogue. Entry payable at the door.

Trade and Exhibitors: free entry (from 10am).

Bookings and enquiries for all these events to info@rieslingchallenge.com or call 6290 1505. Booking forms at rieslingchallenge.com

leading lawyers Cool heads for clients in legal crisis

ClientS in crisis need advice from lawyers with cool heads and experience to get them through their issue with dignity and justice.

here “Citynews” showcases some of the passionate, professional practitioners of Canberra and their particular specialities.

A decade of caring for clients

RACHEL Bird & Co will celebrate a decade of providing quality legal services to Canberra and region in March 2015.

“We travel for court matters in Queanbeyan, Yass, Goulburn, Batemans Bay and the Sydney area on a regular basis and we appear in local, district, and federal court jurisdictions,” says Rachel.

The firm provides legal services encompassing criminal and traffic law, family law, civil litigation including personal injury and ACT Workers Compensation, contested estates, wills, powers of attorney and probate matters, as well as general commercial disputes.

Rachel Bird & Co incorporated Butler & Co Lawyers into the practice in July 2007.

The firm now has a number of lawyers who practice in a variety of legal areas.

Rachel and her team pride themselves on being results driven people with a down-toearth, pragmatic and friendly approach to their clients.

“We are a dynamic, boutique law firm where the focus of the firm is on getting the best result for the client and meeting the client’s legal needs,” she says.

“Where possible, we quote our clients a ‘fixed fee’ rate; that way they know exactly what they need to pay.”

The combined team at Rachel Bird and Co brings more than 40 years of legal experience with a cost-effective and solutionsbased approach always the highest priority.

Principal

focus of the firm is on getting the best result for the client and meeting the client’s legal needs.”

Rachel Bird & Co, 4th Floor, AMP Building, 1 Hobart Place. Call 6248 6616.

new principal offers established values

A BACKHOUSE & Associates offers competitive pricing and a highly qualified and experienced team to assist with legal requirements of individuals and business owners.

Taken over by principal Angela Backhouse, Rod J Barnett’s Fyshwick law firm may have been rebranded but it is focused on looking after its existing clientele.

“Rod has been operating in Fyshwick since 1996 and he was ready to start working towards retirement, but wanted to ensure his clients would still be well looked after,” says Angela.

Services include litigation, debt collection, insolvency, wills and estates, banking and finance, employment law, as well as property matters including conveyancing and commercial leasing.

With a new team in place, Angela says she’s working to streamline the firm and its practices and procedures. New staff include legal secretary Julie Devine, Rod’s support Wendy Price, and graduate Allison Clark.

“The work is extremely interesting, especially with commercial law. There is such a variety of work in this area of law and I look forward to coming into work every day to take on new challenges.”

Principal Angela Backhouse… i look forward to coming into work every day to take on new challenges.”

A Backhouse & Associates, Suite 1, Paragon Mall, corner of Kembla and Gladstone Streets, Fyshwick. Call 6280 8899.

It starts with listening.

Pam Lyndon | 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.

advertising feature

in the Zone for personal service and fixed fees

ZONE Legal offers progressive lawyering and personal service, transparent and fixed fees, and value for money, says practice principal Steven Fraser.

“Informed clients are looking for value for money,” he says. “With the use of helpful technology and low overheads we can provide reasonable and open cost structures.

“We’re a small firm that does conveyancing, leasing, sale and purchase of businesses, trusts, wills and contesting of wills, as well as professional contracts, among other things.”

The firm has a strong emphasis on communication, aiming to keep clients informed, and answering questions in a transparent manner.

“We aim to facilitate an open, positive process by email, SMS and mobile phone,” says Steven. “Your questions and concerns will be dealt with as quickly as possible and you will be kept informed as far as possible.”

Zone Legal, City Executive Suites, 88-96 Bunda St, Civic. Call 6112 8170.

Deborah has the workplace covered

TRINITY Law recognises that employees are a major resource and expense of any business, and that effectively managing the employment relationship is one of the keys to success.

Associate Deborah Mackenzie, who recently joined the Trinity Law team, provides employment law expertise to support the firm’s existing commercial and SME services.

Deborah has a background in litigation and has been practising exclusively in employment law for the past eight years. She has extensive experience working for employers in an advisory capacity and has an enviable success rate in representing employers and employees in employment disputes.

“Trinity Law can assist in navigating the complexities of the employment relationship, providing pragmatic and practical advice suited to individual businesses.”

Deborah works with businesses through all the stages of the employment relationship, from engaging new employees to ending the relationship and beyond, and everything in between.

“The employment relationship can be complex,” she says. “It is important to have an understanding of how employment is affected by legislation and awards or enterprise agreements, and to keep up with the constant changes in the employment landscape.

Trinity Law, Level 3, 40 Blackall Street, Barton. Call 6163 5050.

Canberra Confidential

Coming home to Slim Dusty

FANCY building a dream home on Slim Dusty Circuit? That’s one of the possible choices for intending occupants of the emerging Gungahlin suburb of Moncrieff, where the street names are dedicated to “musicians and those associated with the field of music”.

The names of the suburb’s first seven roads have been determined as: [Chrissie] Amphlett Street, Bernard Heinze Avenue, [June] Bronhill Street, [Johnny] O’Keefe Avenue, Slim Dusty Circuit, [Frank] Yamma Way and Hoffman Street – delightfully named in memory of local music identity Bill Hoffman, who was the principal classical music critic for “The Canberra Times” for decades.

Construction of roads and services for this stage of Moncrieff are slated for sometime between January and July 2016.

Money for publicists

IT seems the Department of Defence has more money than sense in these austere days that are seeing public servants being hoiked out of jobs across the city.

Here’s the rub: we’re alerted to a ho-hum story announcing a Canberra female recruit

has joined the Royal Australian Air Force to pursue a career as an aeronautical engineer (imagine that?). But what isn’t ho-hum is that the alert and press release comes all the way from Melbourne public relations company Progressive PR, who tell us they “do some editorial support for Defence Force Recruiting”.

Mrs Q wants you

“MRS Queanbeyan”, author Nichole Overall, is hosting a 1920sstyle “Moonlight Cocktail Party” to mark Queanbeyan’s 176th birthday and the first anniversary of the launch of her award-winning book, “Queanbeyan – City of Champions” at the Mill House Cafe, 7pm-9pm, on September 27.

Over the last year Nichole has also been conducting the “Mysterious Queanbeyan by Moonlight Tours”. Proceeds from the cocktail party ($25 or $40 per couple, which includes a light buffet and drinks) will go to the Queanbeyan Children’s Special Needs Group. Bookings to nichole@qbncityofchampions. com.au

Snack-led discovery

RESEARCH watch: We’ve discovered where Canberra’s obesity problem is coming from. According to a panting press release: “New research by Woolworths has revealed how the recent winter months in New South Wales led to an increase in ACT’s snacking habits.”

Worryingly, how NSW weather affects our snack consumption is not explained, but you might like to know that the Territory’s most popular time to snack is between 2pm and 5pm on Tuesdays. Or not.

Denim and son

WHEN Fashfest co-founder and ad-manaround-town Clint Hutchinson saw Braddon Tailors showcase denim suits on the catwalk at Fashfest this year he had to have one. Before the idea faded, Clint was being measured at Canberra’s Braddon Tailors for a suit to wear at a family wedding in Switzerland this month. Made from 8-ounce indigo denim and sourced from a famous Japanese mill, the tailors promise the suit will develop a beautiful patina and soften with wear. But one wasn’t enough. Clint ordered extra material to have a suit tailored for Mini-Me, infant son Noah. This time it was Fashfest designer Perpetually Five doing the honours, complete with a baby tie.

Life on the light rail: NOW that the taxpayers look like being lumbered with the squillion dollars for the light rail project, CC thought it worth sharing the dumbed down way costly Capital Metro illustrates a “transformative” day in the life of the two per cent of the town who will be riding the rails (and, laughably, eating big chickens and dreaming of the tram) in 2019.

hmmms...

OUCH! “We have been working very hard behind the scenes to create a new Festival feel for your enjoyment in 2015,” begins the latest newsletter from the Canberra International Music Festival, which goes on to read like a slap in the face to departed director Chris Latham “Putting all the great F’s back into CIMF, such as Fun, Fine music and musicians, Fine dining, Fabulous Friends and of course a great Festival atmosphere.” Latham could doubtless add his own “F” to the list…

CANBERRA Grammar School has replaced departed communications manager Clare Dahlstrom with a Civicbased public relations company. Capable Clare has joined the comms team at the Brumbies.

THE ACT Public Trustee is laudably holding two free public seminars as part of next month’s Will Week. If that isn’t enough, there is the lure of a lucky door prize of a free will voucher “for all women attendees and attendees 60 years of age and over”. Men, 59 and under, can leave before the draw.

Social event of the week / Fashion preview at Canberra Centre scene / around canberra

it’S time to throw off the black of winter and reach for the sherbets, cobalt, acid yellow, white and ubiquitous animal prints of summer. Well, that’s if you want to.

The Canberra Centre has zoomed in at the start of the new season with fashion parades, a little Beauty Oasis to provide some pampering and a VIP customer gift bag to say “thank you” for supporting the industry that is suffering as we increasingly shop online.

So they’ve gone for the “retail experience” method with Colleen Cuneo bringing her team to town to style, produce and present with local models the best the centre has to offer.

Research for this little story is as easy as stepping around the shops, perusing the fashion mags and chatting with the pretty young things to garner opinion on current trends. Would the blue-hued bermuda shorts suit with lace-up suede shoes be a starter for the blokes? Maybe, said the under twenties, but rapper Redfoo has cornered a colourful market there with his efforts so we’ll wait and see.

ACT EVENT FUND 2015

The ACT Government is inviting applications to the ACT Event Fund for existing festivals and events that will take place in 2015. The online application process will open on Friday, 26 September 2014 at 10:00am.

The ACT Government, through the ACT Event Fund, supports a diverse range of activities that reflect the wide range of community interests that enrich the experience of living in Canberra.

The ACT Event Fund is highly competitive and applicants are strongly encouraged to attend one of the public information sessions for an overview of the process.

Further details about the public information sessions, access to the 2015 information booklet and a link to the online application (when open) are available at www. events.act.gov.au.

The closing date for applications is 5pm, Monday 27 October 2014 online.

If you have any questions please email: eventfund@act.gov.au or phone Events ACT on 02 6205 0666.

At the Queanbeyan Gift club launch At the opening soiree of

You’re invited to the

Roast

Sundays from 10am, 2CC Talking Canberra presents an exciting new concept on Canberra radio – the CityNews Sunday Roast. It’s a program that will trigger conversation and debate with news, views and background to issues that affect the great city in which we live.

And it’s a revolving panel show that brings to the microphone great “CityNews” writers and 2CC’s local personalities.

Be a part of the discussion and call 6255 1206 between 10am and noon

School Holiday Ac

tivity

Ideas and inspiration school holidays

From unleashing your child’s creativity with a variety of art experiences to fun times with water balls, donut decorating and

meeting reptiles in the flesh, “Citynews” has the school holidays covered with inspiration to ensure the kids are never bored...

Petting zoo and more to thrill the kids

THE Canberra Outlet Centre will be hosting a petting zoo for kids during the school holidays, to be located near the indoor play centre Monkey Mania, says marketing manager Katey Johnstone.

“The petting zoo will be on October 4-5, from 10am3pm, and is located in the Homemaker Hub, near Monkey Mania for ease of entertaining the kids,” says Katey. The centre also offers a mix of retail outlet stores for a one-stop retail destination for fashion, homewares and more.

“We have a lot of premium fashion retailers here,

Tactile creativity with clay

WORKING with clay is a wonderfully tactile experience, with plenty of scope for creative expression, says Fran Romano, education program manager at the Canberra Potters’ Society.

“The three-dimensional nature of clay encourages the exploration of structure, shapes and forms,” says Fran.

She says the Canberra Potters’ Society’s four-day spring holiday courses are not just great fun, they’re great value, too.

Saturday October 4th & Sunday October 5th 10am – 3pm *Down the stairs at the Newcastle Street main entrance.

Petting Zoo will be set up at the Homemaker Centre entrance in front of Monkey Mania.

“Experienced teachers help children explore their creativity through hand-building and wheelthrowing projects,” she says.

“All classes are equally suitable for beginners and children with some pottery experience.”

Week one classes run from September 30 to October 3 and

Open 7 Days, 10am - 6pm

including Cue, Alannah Hill, Diana Ferrari, Joanne Mercer, JAG, Oxford, Puma and Cotton On,” she says. “Kids love Monkey Mania, and there’s also the food court and Coffee Club, as well as ongoing promotions every month throughout the centre.”

As well as popular fashion outlets, Canberra Outlet Centre has top shoe brands, homewares and specialty stores.

Canberra Outlet Centre, 337 Canberra Avenue, Fyshwick. Call 6112 6222.

week two, October 7-10. There are no classes on the two Monday public holidays.

Three-hour and 90-minute classes are available, with the 90-minute classes more suitable for younger children.

Parents and carers are welcome to enrol as students with their children.

“Our teaching studio at Watson Arts Centre is well-equipped and easily accessible from Northbourne Avenue, with plenty of free parking,” says Fran. “Course fees include all tuition, clay and firing.”

Canberra Potters’ Society, Watson Arts Centre, Aspinall Street, Watson. Call 6241 7800 or email classes@ canberrapotters.com.au.

Details of class times and fees are available at canberrapotters.com.au

School Holiday Pottery

Canberra Potters’ Society is offering a choice of three daily classes each week of the school holidays (except public holidays). Learn a new skill in a fun, creative environment with experienced pottery teachers. Parents and carers are welcome to enrol too.

WEEK 1 30 Sept-3 Oct WEEK 2 7-10 Oct 3hr Class $195 per/wk 1.5hr Class $105 per/wk

To book call 6241 7800 or for more information visit www.canberrapotters.com.au

Canberra Potters’ Society Watson Arts Centre

matilda Kneebone, 6, working on her acrylic painting in the art workshop.

For budding young artists

THIS school holidays will see Lavender Art Studios present two different creative themes to students, says studio manager Elita Mackay.

“Dinosaurs plus an arrangement of refreshing spring topics and mixed artistic genres will be offered in our specialised art workshops for kids aged five to 13 years,” she says.

Elita says they continually strive to keep the art studio at a level that ensures the best health and safety standards while being a relaxing, fun and productive art space.

“Drawing, painting, sculpting and printmaking will be offered to the young budding artists from 1pm-4pm daily, and the cost includes materials and afternoon tea,” says Elita.

“Book for the whole eight sessions or attend on a casual basis – either way, your child is assured of a fun, artistic, wholesome and diverse art experience.”

Lavender Art Studios, First Floor, 42 Townshend Street, Phillip. Call 6292 6339 or visit lavenderartstudios.com.au

for busy kids advertising feature

Reptiles, glitter and donuts

THERE is lots of fun to be had at the Majura Park shopping centre these school holidays, with events for the whole family, says Jason Costa, commercial and retail marketing manager.

“Reptile lovers can meet baby crocodiles, lizards, goannas, even a python, and various other live reptiles at the ‘Ultimate Live Reptile Experience’ near Babies’R’Us,” he says.

“A trained handler will be giving demonstrations and information about the reptiles, so it will be a fun and educational experience for all children.”

Kids can also join the Glitzi Globe craze and make their very own Glitzi Globe at Toys’R’Us.

“Each child gets their own free Glitzi Globe, they fill it up with figurines and glitter, then shake it up!” he says.

For whole-family fun, water balls will be set up in front of Big W. For $10 you can climb inside a giant inflatable water ball and run, walk and tumble around in the water pit.

“The youngest person I’ve seen go into a water ball was three years old, and the oldest was 97, so it

really is a whole lot of fun for all ages,” says Jason.

Donut King is also offering the opportunity for kids to make their own donut in their own style. For only $3 they can get a donut and decorate it with the toppings and colours they want.

Mr and Mrs Potato Head will be making a guest appearance in the Toys’R’Us store on September 27, between 10am and noon. The pair will be roaming around the store and will be available for photographs.

There will also be a colouring competition at the Book Grocer, with a $20 book voucher prize for the best chameleons. The colouring pages are available from the Book Grocer or downloaded at: majuraparkshopping.com.au/ colour-the-chameleon/ All programs are aimed at children between five to 13, depending on the activity.

More information on dates and times of events, visit majuraparkshopping. com.au/whats-on/events/

spring / summer fashion advertising feature

natural, down to earth

ACCESSORIES that are stylish and effortless, made entirely of natural materials and fabric while also being mindful of our environment is the focus of Australian label Woodfolk, says owner Julia Denes.

They make jewellery, accessories and homewares, and Julia says that each Woodfolk product has been carefully designed to be simple yet striking, comfortable to wear and soft to touch.

Woodfolk products are designed in Australia and handmade both in Australia and by Nepali craftspeople, throughout local and remote areas of Nepal.

“We have chosen to work with both smaller family-run businesses as well as women-focused organisations, providing them with financial assistance in order to help support them to build a better future for themselves and their families,” says Julia.

woodfolk.com.au

interpret the new looks

SPRING is always light and bright, a real contrast from what we’ve been experiencing over the Canberra winter, says Gail Lubbock, owner of Escala.

“It’s a really lovely time to revitalise and add colour, as well as neutrals and monochrome black and white,” she says.

“There really is a bit of everything around this season – there are still some shoes with height, but the ballerina is still strong and the espadrille is also a really popular style that can be worn with anything.”

Gail says summery flat brogues are also in, as are runner styles.

“We’re also just starting to see a heavy white sole at the moment, which will become even more popular next summer and we will see them en masse,” she says.

“In Europe the look is quite skinny pants cut to just above the ankle, and also the girls are wearing little ankle boots with everything.”

The new spring season is very much open to interpretation, says Gail, with bags still big, heel shapes unusual, more of a pointed toe coming in and lots of beautiful scarves around.

“Scarves are great for this transeasonal style, worn with a plain T-shirt or shirt,” she says.

“We can help clients navigate the new-season looks and make them their own based on what they already have in their wardrobes.”

Escala, shop 1, 21 Bougainville Street, Manuka. Call 6232 7666.

Freshen up your style with new season collections from Escala Shoes.

Define and shape

THREADING is an ancient method of hair removal originating in the eastern world, and has recently gained popularity in western countries, says Yogita Rani, of Yogi’s Threading and Tinting Bar in Soma Day Spa.

“Threading is applied with a specially designed thin cotton thread that is doubled and twisted,” she says. “It’s then rolled over areas of unwanted hair, plucking from the follicle.”

Yogi says threading achieves a very precise and defined shape, with a long-lasting result.

“I correct many eyebrows and it’s a great, all-natural method, with no chemicals or burning for those who are allergic to wax,” she says. “It also reduces regrowth.”

Yogi learnt the threading technique in India and has been based in Canberra for five years. She also offers eyelash and eyebrow tinting.

local mums hit the catwalk

Yogi’s Threading and Tinting Bar, call 0478 947840 or visit facebook.com/yogisthreadingandtinting

LOCAL mums will hit the catwalk to showcase the latest in maternity fashion at the inaugural Canberra Baby & Beyond Expo. Parade organiser Therese Scarano said the parades would be a highlight for pregnant women.

“It’s important for local mums to see our gorgeous maternity fashion on their fellow mumsto-be,” she said. “It makes the wonderful benefits of maternity fashion much more real.”

The Expo has drawn exhibitors from all around the country, with popular baby brands Infasecure, Oricom, Sunbury Nursery and Baby Bunting among the 100 businesses on show, as well as local services and support organisations.

The Canberra Baby & Beyond Expo, 9am-3pm, September 27-28 at the AIS Arena, tickets are $10 at the door. More information at canberrababyexpo.com.au

meetyouat

CORNER

Range of men’s products – prices available in store

James and Danika from Franco of Canberra have just returned from Paris full of inspiration and new ideas. “The experience we were given to work on stage in Paris was incredible. It was four days full of creativity, passion and education showcased by some of the best stylists from 56 different countries. The highlight of the trip was witnessing the shows put on by Intercoiffure Mondial showcasing new and upcoming hair trends. It was great to see the different directions each stylist has taken their career and how far it can actually take you. It was an eye opening four days.”

arts & entertainment

Coming ‘home’ to fool around

By helen musa

While the rest of the country debates whether Australia is truly “open for business”, there is rejoicing backstage at the Wharf revue.

For nothing, I find, when I chat to the brilliant musical director, performer and writer Phillip Scott, is quite so delightful to a satirist as a change of government, not even if it means losing your best part.

I catch up with Scott by phone to Wollongong. He and fellow actors, Jonathan Biggins, Amanda Bishop and Douglas Hansell (Drew Forsythe’s away with “Strictly Ballroom”) have already premiered their new show in Penrith and Parramatta, but soon they’ll be here in Canberra, the revue’s spiritual home.

“Fortunately we haven’t had to repeat ourselves… with a change of government, there are new people in power and that’s good for us,” Scott exults. Mind you, there will be nostalgic reappearances of Paul Keating and Julia Gillard, but not his most

famous role, that of former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. Scott took a sabbatical last year and returned to find him gone.

“It’s terribly sad, really,” he says. “But don’t forget that I used to do John Howard before Rudd.”

One prize source of comedy is Clive Palmer.

“We’ve done Clive before, but his insolence has grown greatly,” Scott continues, “then we’ve got Scott Morrison, George Brandis and all the new front bench… admittedly they’ve been around for several years, but now they’re more in the public eye.

Being equitable, they do have “Blinky Bill” Shorten, who gives the actors an excuse to get into koala suits. “Tony Abbott gets to play the Goanna, the baddie in Blinky Bill’s forest.”

While he was away last year, Scott likes to boast, it took two people – a pianist and actor – to replace him, though he still co-wrote it with Forsythe and Biggins and did the musical supervision. But this year there’s an embarrassment of riches, since Forsythe’s replacement, actor Douglas Hansell, can play the piano while Scott’s getting into his koala suit.

vinyl

Plum job for pianist Powell

helen musa

In a rare serious moment, Scott pause to reflect sardonically: “Now the Opposition is doing the bipartisan thing, at the moment, sending us into Iraq, which was such a success last time.”

Talking of seriousness, Scott admits there is nothing like Forsythe’s Rupert Murdoch-King Lear piece this time, but there is quite a serious piece about the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.

“We can’t possibly make jokes about that,” he says, but musically, it’s a very ornate piece, and yes, a little bit ecclesiastical, with a bit of “Allegri Miserere” and an organ backing.

“We always like to have a moment where we stop making silly jokes and say something that makes a point, then we immediately cut back and go back to fooling around… It’s a bit of a risk but I think it works.”

The Wharf Revue, “Open for Business” at The Playhouse, September 30 to October 4, 90 minutes, no interval. Bookings to canberratheatrecentre.com.au or 6275 2700.

GREAT news that Canberra pianist Susanne Powell has been invited to be guest celeste player with the London Symphony Orchestra when they tour Australia later this year. “Exciting times,” Powell tells us.

arts in the city Fuller.

FORMER Narrabundah College drama student Laurence Fuller has the lead role in the psychological thriller “Road to the Well”, now being shot between Los Angeles and Lake Tahoe. Fuller has already enjoyed lead roles in screen dramas “Apostle Peter and the Last Supper” and “Mother & Brother”.

FINALISTS have been announced for the 2014 Stencil Art Prize. Now in its sixth year, with an impressive 65 finalists from as far as Iran, Turkey, Thailand, Norway, Japan and Mexico competing for the $3000 cash prize. The winner will be announced on October 16. Canberra’s own E.L.K., described by organisers as “the internationally renowned technical genius”, is a featured artist.

CREATED by Queensland’s Dead Puppet Society, “The Harbinger” is part puppet show, part storybook, part daydream. Considered perfect for audiences 12+, the tale is centred on a little girl and an old man who find themselves thrown together in the aftermath of civil war. At The Street Theatre, October 1 to 4, bookings to 6247 1223 or thestreet.org.au

PIANIST Andrew Rumsey concludes his “Rumsey & Friends” concert series at Wesley Music Centre, 7.30pm-9.30pm, on October 4. The performance will include a guest appearance by Canberra cellist and former “CityNews” Artist of the Year, David Pereira. Bookings to trybooking.com/FNOT

harbinger. Whitbread.

AFTER 40 years of playing the bassoon, Canberra musician David Whitbread is finally ready to present a kind of bassoon cabaret called “Things You Shouldn’t do on a Bassoon”. Whitbread, who has backed Stephane Grappelli and Cleo Laine, laments the fact that his chosen instrument has often been called “the clown of the orchestra”, most unfair if you consider its range. At Wesley Music Centre, 2pm, Saturday, October 4. Entry by donation of a note at the door with all proceeds going to StreetSwags.org

Lust and greed at full throttle

“Sin City: A Dame to Kill For” (mA)

IN Robert Rodriguez’s violent, angry filming of Frank Miller’s cartoon strip fantasy views of the underbelly of American society, this city sleeps by day and wakes after sunset.

Power, lust, greed, hatred and ultra-violence resume scattering their nefarious influences among men who know not how to contribute to healing society’s illnesses and women whose bodies are a currency circulating among the highest bidders.

Rodriguez might validly be called the high priest of the cult of films that use those values as brain fodder for people seeking polemics that might explain their popularity. He cuts straight to the chase and keeps it running at full throttle until nobody is left to maintain the story which does, however, offer messages to those willing to see them.

Channel surfing recently, I happened across the first “Sin City” and the death of Hartigan (Bruce Willis) whose spectre keeps popping up in “A Dame To Kill For”. There’s a woman on that case (not the one to kill for) and vengeance is her motive. There’s also a corrupt senator and a venal businessman whose wife might indeed inspire murder.

Few of the film’s women are what a young man would take home to meet the parents. The film’s principal example of that kind ends up in four pieces.

It’s that kind of movie. I can’t say it was lovable, but I watched every frame of it in 2D without dozing off.

At Dendy, Limelight and Hoyts Belconnen

“We Are the Best” (mA)

IN Swedish filmmaker Moodysson’s dramatisation of a cartoon strip by his wife, schoolgirls Bobo and Klara, soon to start climbing puberty’s upward slope, want to become a punk band but neither has any musical skill. They have devised pejorative lyrics listing their reasons for loathing sport. They have worked out that that business about God is a rip-off.

So why does the film have the MA classification?

Because the subtitles are not coy about Bobo and Klara’s vocabulary. Were I to quote it here, the editor might feel obliged to delete.

Children of their age are almost certainly familiar with those words and probably wonder why grown-ups think them wicked. Moodysson’s film is aimed more at parents than children. Which, by an inverted rationale, is a good reason to take youngsters along to see it.

It’s fun. While it may stretch belief, it’s essentially credible. It doesn’t present sex, drugs or rock ‘n roll as glamorous in a grown-up sense. Its young characters are doing their best to maintain a stable footing on a journey through perilous unexplored terrain. And parents might learn from it about punk rock, as I did. Musically infantile. Not to my taste. But I certainly found merit in the purpose of what the words were trying to explain.

At Palace Electric

“Wish i Was here” (m)

IN his second film after “Garden State” (2004), director Zach Braff plays aspiring actor Aidan, upon whom life’s burdens, while individually relatively minor, are

steadily piling up.

The Jewish school is threatening to bar his children (Joey King and Pierce Gagnon) unless outstanding fees are promptly paid. His retired father (Mandy Patinkin) needs all his savings to pay hospital bills. Brother Noah (Josh Gad) can’t help. Wife Sarah (Kate Hudson) who keys data into spreadsheets to pay the bills is fending off an unwelcome male colleague. The pool and the back fence need refurbishing. And his latest casting call is for a black actor.

The Swear Jar, reserved to pay for the kids’ college education, is somehow getting fuller and fuller in this single-income household.

“Wish I Was Here” doesn’t fit neatly into any generic classification. Its heart-warming comic passages ease the pain of waiting for the epiphany that never comes, of mourning a beloved father, of watching a relationship struggle against undeserved adversity.

How Braff’s screenplay deals with those difficulties has one underlying flaw. Life has no obligation to be all milk and honey, roses and sunshine, success and fulfilment. Aidan’s insistence on pursuing his acting ambition is the root cause of his problems. Of course, there’d be no film if he got a job. He’s a nice guy, his determination not compounded by nastiness. But he’d be happier if his family better understood his attitudes.

At Capitol 6, Palace Electric and Dendy

DOUGAL MACDONALD

three of thomas Arthur Buckland’s prize-winning five self-portraits in matchboxes.

‘Quirky’ wins prize

By helen musa

FiVe “quirky” self-portraits presented in matchboxes have won the 2014 Capital Chemist Art Award.

Braddon artist Thomas Arthur Buckland’s unusual portraits have been made from recycled cardboard, depicting a mood for every day of the week.

“CityNews” caught up with the judges Ingeborg Hansen, from Megalo Print Studio, and Jas Hugonnet, from Hugonnet.com.au, at the Tuggeranong Arts Centre as they walked through the exhibition of works by the 30 artists who entered works in the annual award, now in its 11th year.

Hugonnet praised the miniature scale of Buckland’s work, which he said showed strong evidence of the artist’s hand, while Hansen applauded the intricate handwork and scale of the pieces, as well as the sense of experiment and use of simple materials.

The runner-up award was given to veteran Kambah artist Barak Zelig for his surrealistic “Untitled” etching depicting a local landscape, commended by the two judges for the use of shadow to create tone.

At Tuggeranong Arts Centre until September 27.

arts & entertainment / dining review Rare

Meeting a passion for pizza

A FrienD of mine isn’t keen on pizzas. Fair enough, but to be honest i don’t get it: what’s there not to like?

Now, I’m not saying that all pizzas are created equally, because they aren’t. But the endless variety fascinates me. Thick dough. Thin dough. A gazillion scrumptious options for toppings. Fun to eat.

The number of pizza outlets in Canberra is anyone’s guess. One is relatively new to the Kingston Foreshore area, and that’s Il Portico, a woodfired pizza and pasta bar. It’s not on the “main strip” but rather sits close to Wild Duck on Giles Street.

I’ve been several times and will be several times more. I find the décor comforting, the staff friendly and the food tasty, honest and inexpensive. And I love to go with a group of friends when there’s lots of chatter.

Gluten-free bases are available on request and prices are set at an average of $18 for a small and $21 for a large with generous toppings, so it’s great value.

An Italian line-up of pizza would not be complete without the famous margherita, so beautiful with red tomato, green basil and white bocconcini. Would they be the colours of the Italian flag?

Fifteen other options are on the pizza list. Not too light on calories but heavy on taste is Italian sausage, shaved ham, mushrooms

WIN A PAINTING

“CityNews” has two botanical art pieces – each valued at $250 – by artist Maria Boreham to be won to mark this year’s “Canberra Botanical” exhibition, October 3-19, at the M16 Art Space, Griffith. Entries to citynews.com.au

il Portico’s pescatora pasta.

and earthy truffle oil pizza, and the Spanish chorizo, capsicum, feta and onion on tomato and mozzarella.

Those who love a rich pizza will enjoy one of my favourites and that’s the four cheeses: bocconcini, blue, feta and mozzarella topped with peppery rocket, shaved parmesan and aioli.

To say that it’s rich… well, let’s not talk about it. Let’s just enjoy it, I thought.

I like to cut through my passion for pizza with a sensible salad and Il Portico’s selection starts with a simple fresh, seasonal version ($10.50) and includes a mesculine, rocket, feta, olives, tomato and roast capsicum with balsamic dressing ($12.50).

Heartier “meal-type” salads are available, including one with smoked salmon ($16.50) and another with chicken ($15.50). And you can’t go wrong with the pear and rocket salad with walnuts and shaved parmesan ($12.50).

Five pasta selections are available – choose fettuccine or rigatoni and then match it with a sauce ($18 to $20).

Il Portico’s wine list heavily features SA wines, including from McLaren Vale, Langhorne Creek, Barossa Valley and Clare Valley. A nice Italian red is available, from Veneto, for $9 a glass or $35 a bottle. Il Portico offers all wines by the glass, which is super and they’re very reasonably priced ($7 to $9).

Il Portico. 75/71 Giles Street, Kingston. Hours vary so best to call, 6239 5044.

La Scala Italian Restaurant

Arthur Boyd’s tapestries

ARTHUR Boyd had been fascinated with the story of the life of St Francis of Assisi since he travelled to Gubbio and Assisi in Umbria, Italy, in 1964 to explore the relationship of the landscape of the region with the life of Francis. Francis was the patron saint of the region and founded the Catholic Franciscan Order in 1210.

Francis, who had been born into a wealthy family in 1181, rejected his privileged life and lived and worked among the poor and ill. From 1203 to 1209 he suffered a serious illness which motivated him to lead the life of a penitent. His father beat him for this decision and turned him out, leading Francis to follow a life of poverty and care for the disadvantaged, animals and the environment.

While in Italy, Boyd made a series of pastel sketches that interpreted the tortured life of St Francis. In London, after further reading, he developed a large suite of 20 images capturing various narratives. They were exhibited in Melbourne in 1965 and were photographed, creating a set of high-quality transparencies.

Through John Olsen, Boyd became interested in tapestry and approached the Manufactura de Tapeçarias de Portalegre in Portugal. The workshop

visual art

“ life of St Francis tapestry Suite”

By Arthur Boyd

At the national gallery of Australia until november 9. reviewed by meredith hinchliffe

uses a wrapped warp technique, where multiple wool yarns are mixed as a single weft thread, giving 2500 stitches per square metre. This gives an intensity of colour and texture in the weave and allows a precise interpretation of the artist’s original work.

Using the transparencies, the soft marks and lines of Boyd’s colourful pastels were delicately translated into the fabric of the tapestries.

Twenty tapestries were woven depicting familiar Francis’ stories and eight are being exhibited. They are luminous, glowing with colour, and almost appear to be lit from behind.

The saturated colours and texture express the violence, brutality and passion of Francis’ life, contradicting the softness of the woven fabric with the brutality in the images.

The Life of St Francis Tapestry Suite has rarely been shown and is almost unknown as a result.

puzzles page

Joanne madeline moore

your week in the stars – September 29- october 5, 2014

ArieS (mar 21 – Apr 20)

Avoid being argumentative Aries. If you practice the gentle art of persuasion, you’ll be surprised how much easier life can be. Draw inspiration from birthday great Mohandas Gandhi: “Leadership at one time meant muscles; but today it means getting along with people.” It’s a wonderful weekend to escape, explore and experiment, as the Mars/Uranus trine triggers your adventurous side.

tAuruS (Apr 21 – may 20)

Bulls are often stubborn souls, which can put others offside. This week Venus (your ruling planet) shifts into Libra, which highlights your innate desire for harmony and balance in your daily life. So strive to be more adaptable, as others won’t behave in rational or predictable ways. Smart Taureans will choose compromise over confrontation, and diplomacy over drama.

gemini (may 21 – June 21)

This week Venus encourages love, romance, convivial conversation and calm cooperation. Plus socialising with friendly folk who are fun and fashionable. But the weekend develops in a rather shambolic fashion, as Mercury shifts into retrograde mode. If you are flexible and adapt to changing circumstances, then you’ll have a lot of fun, games, hassles and hijinks along the way!

CAnCer (June 22 – July 22)

Jump out of your cozy Crab comfort zone and shake up your usual routine! The Mars/Uranus trine encourages you to do things differently, as you banish boredom and initiate positive changes. Plus, with Uranus moving through your public reputation zone, your motto for the moment comes from birthday great Mohandas Gandhi: “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.”

leo (July 23 – Aug 22)

Proud Lions love to pounce. But this week’s stars encourage you to get the balance right between being a cautious Cat, and grabbing lucky opportunities when they come along. Compulsive thinking and bossy behaviour are a danger on the weekend, but stressing about things won’t help matters. Strive to be less obsessive and more reflective. True security and peace of mind come from within.

Virgo (Aug 23 – Sept 22)

Venus moves into your money zone (until October 24) which is good news for cash-strapped Virgos. Be very careful how you pass on information this weekend though, as Mercury goes retrograde. If you criticise others, then you’ll be misunderstood. A cautious and diplomatic approach is the clever way to go – especially when talking, texting, emailing, posting and tweeting.

liBr A (Sept 23 – oct 23)

Librans are famous for being fashionistas and the classiest sign in the zodiac. This week, with Venus transiting into your sign, your natural elegance and sense of style shine for all the world to see. Don’t be too preoccupied with outer appearances though! Be inspired by birthday great, fashion editor Diana Vreeland: “The only real elegance is in the mind; if you’ve got that, the rest really comes from it.”

SCorPio (oct 24 – nov 21)

Are financial worries festering in your mind? Stop stressing about money and instead, do something tangible about it. The more proactive you are about boosting your cash flow, the happier you’ll be. The weekend aspects look complicated and chaotic. With the Sun/Pluto square (plus Mercury reversing through your sign) realise things won’t go according to your strict Scorpio schedule.

SAgittAriuS (nov 22 – Dec 21)

With mighty Mars charging through your sign (until October 26) there’s a fine line between being proactive and just plain pushy. So strive to be more kind, considerate and cooperative. Sagittarians love to talk up a storm, but make a concentrated effort to listen closely to what others have to say. As birthday great Truman Capote observed: “A conversation is a dialogue, not a monologue.”

CAPriCorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Venus shifts into your career zone (until October 24) so it’s a terrific time to improve the function and look of your work space; apply for a promotion or new job; or take on some volunteer work. Dress to impress! A combination of creativity and collaboration helps you move up to the next level professionally. But resist the temptation to butt heads with a frustrated authority figure on Saturday.

AQuAriuS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Be proactive about creating your preferred future, as you focus your energy on potential projects that make your heart sing. Mars and Uranus boost your devilmay-care attitude on the weekend as you go hiking, biking or camping in the great outdoors; or embark on a grand Aquarian adventure. It’s also time to make exciting new connections via social networking sites and other media platforms.

PiSCeS (Feb 19 – mar 20)

If you daydream the week away, then you’ll just end up feeling dazed and confused. Instead, try channelling your Piscean energy into creative work projects, spiritual pursuits or helping others. The New Moon lights up your lust and loot zones so some flirtatious Fish can look forward to a hot new romance – or a revitalised old one. It may also be time to tweak a joint financial arrangement. Daily astrology updates at www.twitter.com/JoMadelineMoore

Across

1 Which person is responsible for one aspect of a newspaper’s activities? (6)

8 Name an occlusion of a blood vessel by undissolved material (8)

9 What is another name for an inn? (6)

10 What do we call one whose experience dates from a long time ago? (3,5)

11 Which practice involves the growing of very small examples of trees? (6)

12 Name the regulation governing conduct, etc (4)

13 Which Latin term describes “that is”? (2,3)

16 What are gramophone records known as? (5)

19 What is a renowned means of transportation? (4)

21 Which persons act as members of mob scenes in movies? (6)

22 What do we call someone engaged in a lawsuit? (8)

23 Which close-fitting garment covers the body from the waist downwards? (6)

24 What is the beginning of development? (8)

Solution next week

25 To happen infrequently is to occur in which manner? (6) Down

2 Name a pure form of carbon, crystallised, and valued as a precious stone (7)

3 What do we call locks of women’s hair? (7)

4 Name the outstanding French impressionist painter, Pierre ... (6)

5 To be blotched in colouring is to be what? (7)

6 To sack someone, is to do what? (7)

7 What is a female ruler known as? (7)

13 Reykjavik is the capital of which Arctic Circle republic? (7)

14 Which term describes rapturous delight? (7)

15 Which part of a gun liberates the mechanism and discharges the weapon? (7)

17 What is a whole number, as distinguished from a fraction? (7)

18 What is a movable article of property? (7)

20 Name a more familiar term for an epistle (6)

open garden

Where natives blend with ornamentals

oVerlooKing a riverside walkway, ursula reid’s Queanbeyan garden blends natives with ornamentals and features a beautiful heritage-listed pepper tree –her husband Keith’s favourite spot.

Keith passed away a year ago and Ursula is opening their garden to the public for the first time on September 27-28 in his honour.

“I wanted to do this in memory of Keith, who died in October last year... it was such a beautiful time in the garden.

“This has given me a focus and a way to keep his memory alive.

“He loved the garden and we spent a lot of time out there.”

Ursula and Keith established the garden themselves when they bought the property in 1999. It was previously owned by Benedict House and was used as the cottage garden for the convent.

“We planned and planted to complement the house, but it was all fairly random, not being professional gardeners by any means,” she says. “However, it’s all turned out looking rather nice!”

The garden is on two levels, with rural frontage and trees at the bottom, and bulbs and ornamentals near the top.

Words: Kathryn Vukovljak

Photos: gary Schafer

“There’s a 25-metre driveway, and you can’t see anything from the street so there’s the element of surprise when you drive up,” she says.

On the open day, Humble House Gallery will exhibit handmade Asian sculptures based on traditional pottery figures from the Han and Tang Dynasties. The “green stone” pieces, sculpted from ancient quarries in northern China, will be available to buy.

“My favourite areas in the garden are the three courtyards around the house, particularly a lovely private one that’s very colourful and comfortable with daphne, azalea and a lemon tree, which is a great place to relax,” says Ursula.

“I also love the memorial bench under the pepper tree. Keith’s spirit lives on in the garden and it’s a wonderfully peaceful spot.”

The inaugural Keith Reid Memorial Open Garden at 7A Thorpe Avenue, Queanbeyan, is open 10am-4pm on the weekend of September 27-28. Refreshments will be available. Entry $5 and proceeds will go to the charity HOME in Queanbeyan.

gardening

Prepare now for dahlia delights

e Ven though they’re for sale in garden centres now, it’s still too early to plant dahlia tubers, which flower in late summer to autumn.

It is best to leave planting the tubers until mid-October to early November.

But it is important to get the ground ready now using plenty of compost from your own compost heap, as you know what is in it. Composted leaves and cow manure are all great when well worked into the soil without artificial chemical fertilisers. Have tomato stakes ready to put in before planting dahlia tubers.

CANNA is another stunningly colourful plant, though it has become less fashionable in recent years. Considered a tropical plant, it will grow in almost anywhere, including the Arctic Circle. They do grow well in Canberra.

Canna comes from the Latin word meaning “cane” or “reed”. It is related to bananas and ginger. Originating in southern US through to Argentina and initially introduced to the West from the West Indies in the 1600s, Canna supports a large horticultural industry with the rhizomes providing the world’s richest source of starch and its leaves for stock fodder.

The rich red, yellow or orange flowers give a real lift to any garden in summer and into the autumn.

Cannas can also be grown in large containers.

TWO of the biggest environmental weeds – ivy and Vinca major, known as periwinkle (with those lovely blue flowers) – are difficult to get rid of and using a herbicide will generally not work irrespective of how strong a solution is used as the glossy leaves will not absorb the chemical.

But here is a suggestion that works well. Firstly, the leaves need to be cut to ground level exposing cut ends with shears or a whippersnipper. Then immediately, I repeat, immediately spray with a

strong solution of glyphosate. Follow the directions on the container. The strongest solution available to the home gardener is Glyphosate 420, which is available from all garden centres. Add a few squirts of household detergent as a surfactant to help the glyphosate stick.

TAKE care what you feed your plants.

Look at the N:P:K ratings on the back of the fertiliser bag. N is for nitrogen, P for phosphorus and K for potassium.

N is good for top, leafy growth, P for root growth and K for fruit and flowers. Too much nitrogen = too much growth = not many blooms. Look for a rating of 8:4:8, except for Australian plants, which need very low phosphorus.

CEDRIC BRYANT

Creating Sustainable Gardens

The Canberra region’s largest range of locally-grown plants – grown on site for local conditions.

• growers of drought tolerant and frost

new garden creations and garden makeovers

and

“CityNews” has two botanical art pieces –each valued at $250 – by artist Maria Boreham to be won to mark this year’s “Canberra Botanical” exhibition, October 3-19, at the M16 Art Space, Griffith. Entries to: WIN A BOTANICAL PAINTING

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