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How coconuts oil a social conscience
By Kathryn Vukovljak
WHEN Dan and Maureen
Etherington started importing virgin coconut oil from the Solomon Islands, they had no idea how large their social enterprise would become – or that coconut oil would be heralded as a health food and become widely in demand.
They have just celebrated 20 years of their Queanbeyan-based company, Kokonut Pacific, which exports coconut presses overseas and then imports the oil back to Australia to pack and sell under their brand, Niulife.
“We started out to do something for the people of the Solomon Islands, who were making copra from coconuts,” says Maureen. “Making copra is tough work producing an inedible product for industrial use, and the farmers were getting so little money for it. We thought there had to be a better way.”
Agricultural economist Dan began working on a coconut press, and over the years developed a design that produces fresh, virgin coconut oil within an hour of opening the nut.
And not only that, the oil it produces is a premium product, they say.
“We initially sold our oil to a Melbourne company who weren’t terribly interested at
first, and told us there was no such thing as virgin coconut oil. We said; ‘There is now!’,”
Maureen says.
“We managed to convince them to buy two 200-litre drums at first – which grew to six tonnes every month.”
Kokonut Pacific has now exported more than 400 presses, with three currently packaged up to send to Kiribati and four to Papua New Guinea.
“At that time we had no idea coconut oil was a health product,” says Maureen. “We saw it being used for village food, biofuel and soap. It was hard to sell here because of the dietary guidelines against saturated fat.
“As we only had one product, we decided to bring in coconut flour, as well as other dry coconut products, and then also the nectar products, like syrup, sugar and sauces made from the coconut blossom.
“It’s an exciting time now, with the paleo diet becoming so popular. We feel as though we are riding a wave, and we don’t know when it will slow down but it is exciting!”
Dan and Maureen say that one of the issues they face is keeping up with demand.
“The main problem is that things are very relaxed in the Pacific! They stop working for months at Christmas and to them, relationships are the most important thing,” says Maureen.
“It’s really lovely – if there’s a wedding or a funeral, they will spend weeks preparing feasts. We’re caught between their culture and the western demand. We want things
now, but it can be a slow process to get the oil – not helped by the remoteness of the island producers.
“We have to manage the demand with the pressure on them to produce while protecting the best aspects of their life and culture. The great thing is that with our technology we are creating village-based enterprises which generate five times more income than turning the same nuts into copra. The money gets spent on many things including school fees, community projects and solar lights.
The next stage for Kokonut Pacific is establishing a coconut technology centre in the Solomon Islands’ capital of Honiara.
“It’s a not-for-profit organisation that will carry out research into new ways to use coconuts so that nothing is wasted,” says Dan. “It will also train farmers in these methods, in order to add value to all components of the coconut.
“The Solomon Islands are faced with rising ocean levels and rising population growth. They need to provide employment for the upcoming generation.
“The rationale is that we are providing meaningful employment for people where they live. They don’t need to travel into cities to find work, which enhances community.
“All this is done with minimal government links. We’re a private social enterprise that isn’t reliant on aid.
“The business has grown at a sensible rate for us to be able to fund it and then plough the profits back into the enterprise.”
Dan and Maureen Etherington... “It’s an exciting time now, with the paleo diet becoming so popular. We feel as though we are riding a wave, and we don’t know when it will slow down.”
Distribution: Richard Watson, circulation@citynews.com.au
Phone 6262 9100 Fax 6262 9111
GPO Box 2448, Civic 2601
summer days
The best there is under the sun
AS you walk along the Tuross boulevard overlooking the South Pacific these lazy summer mornings, it’s mighty hard to escape the thought that Australia is just about the best there is.
We have our long holiday at the happiest time of year – Christmas – and while all those poor folk in the northern hemisphere are battling blizzards, we can relax in the sun. School’s over; it’s too hot to work and we’ve got the longest coastline in the world to play in. And we lead the world (with NZ) into the New Year celebrations with weeks of holidays ahead.
A little further along an attractive young Asian/Australian woman is doing strength and aerobic exercises on the biscuit-coloured beach. You can’t help but be reminded that we’re no longer that pinched-faced, boring Anglo mob of yesteryear.
At last we’re beginning to accept – and even enjoy – our place as a vigorous member of a very exciting region. Over the little rise toward the shopping centre and other walkers are heading your way tugged along by their furry friends.
We’re no longer that pinched-faced, boring Anglo mob of yesteryear.
You collect your paper from the newsagent, crack a running joke with the hardware shop bloke and slowly wend your way back home in this best of all possible worlds. You boil an egg, butter toast, perc the coffee and take the tray into the writing room. The egg is perfect this morning, runny in the middle, firm at the edges. You fire up the computer, but before starting the day’s writing, click to the ABC to see if anything’s happening… It is. A religious nut from the Middle East – that wretched cradle of hate – has taken 17 of your fellow Australians hostage in a coffee shop right in the heart of Sydney. It takes a while for the horror to sink in. You try to work but it’s
useless; you can’t help but put yourself in the shoes of the hostages; you feel their shock at the unreality of it, then the outrage, the terror, the hope mingled with fatalistic despair…
You feel for the TV hosts when they know only the bare facts and have to repeat them endlessly or cross gratefully to “experts” who know even less. But you can’t leave; to do so would be
to abandon the fateful 17, until nearly midnight when you know something is going to happen in the early hours but your body has betrayed you. You wake early, hit the TV, and you were right: something did happen. Bullets flew; two of your 17 compatriots have been killed, four others wounded, the nutcase riddled with lead. But then came the flowers and the “i’llridewithyou” hashtag. That was good. It brought us together. That’s how we said goodbye to 2014. We remembered it at Christmas, remembered it at New Year and on the boulevard as we said our morning greetings. It echoes. You hear it in the hollow thump of the waves on the biscuitcoloured beach, in the whispering surf upon the sand, and in the sea shells your sandy granddaughter holds to your ear. We’re still the best there is. But we’re all a little older, a little sadder, but hopeful as we turn the page to 2015.
ROBERT MACKLIN
robert@robertmacklin.com
Cover: Paul Kelly to headline “Australia Celebrates Live”. Story Page 8.
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Paul Kelly to star in ‘Celebrates Live’
LEGENDARY Australian singer and songwriter, Paul Kelly, is the star of this year’s “Australia Celebrates Live” on Sunday, January 25.
The annual Australia Day eve show is a free, family friendly concert held every year on the lawns at Parliament House and showcases the best home-grown musical talent while honouring the achievements of inspiring Australians.
“Paul Kelly has an enduring place in the Australian psyche: his stories are synonymous with our landscape, history and lifestyle,” says CEO of the National Australia Day Council, Jeremy Lasek.
“So it is only fitting that he will headline the 2015 ‘Australia Celebrates Live’ concert.
“Canberra is in for something very special… as night falls the excitement builds and there is just a fantastic atmosphere. Everyone has come together to see the new Australians of the Year announced and then there is this wonderful anticipation as each new act comes on stage.
“It’s just an exciting thing to be part of. If you’re in Canberra, there really is no better way to start celebrating Australia Day.”
Kelly, who will play a full set comprised mainly of his well-known hits and a few new songs, is interrupting his national tour promoting the release of his 20th album, “The Merri Soul Sessions”, to perform in Canberra.
Kelly has performed solo and has led numerous groups, including the Dots, the Coloured Girls, and the Messengers. His music style has ranged from bluegrass to studio-oriented dub reggae, but his core output straddles folk, rock, and country.
Kelly says song writing is “mysterious” to him.
“I still feel like a total beginner,” he says. “I don’t feel like I have got it nailed yet”.
Nevertheless, his lyrics capture the vastness of the culture and landscape of Australia by chronicling life around him for more than 30 years.
In 2001, the Australasian Performing Right Association listed the Top 30 Australian songs of all time, which included Kelly’s “To Her Door”, and “Treaty”, written by Kelly and members of Yothu Yindi.
Aside from “Treaty”, Kelly has written or co-written several songs on indigenous Australian social issues and historical events.
David Fricke, from “Rolling Stone” magazine, calls Kelly “one of the finest songwriters I have ever heard,
Singer/songwriter Paul Kelly… his stories are synonymous with our landscapes and history.
Australian or otherwise.”
After growing up in Adelaide, Kelly travelled around Australia before settling in Melbourne in 1976. He became involved in the pub rock scene and recorded two albums with Paul Kelly and the Dots. Kelly moved to Sydney by 1985, where he formed Paul Kelly and the Coloured Girls. At the end of the ‘80s, Kelly returned to Melbourne, where he still lives. Kelly’s Top 40 singles include “Billy Baxter”, “Before Too Long”, “Darling It Hurts”, “To Her Door” (his highestcharting local hit in 1987), “Dumb Things” and “Roll on Summer”.
He has been awarded nine Australian Recording Industry Association Music Awards, including being inducted into its Hall of Fame in 1997.
“Australia Celebrates Live”, Sunday, January 25, from 3pm, live music from 4pm. More information at australiaday.org.au
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‘I’ve never looked back’
HERE is a success story from Curves: Judith Barnes writes:
“On October 21, 2013, I was an unfit, overweight, size 16, approaching 60 woman when dear Denise Foxhill invited me to give Curves a go.
“I well recall, when I entered the gym that first morning, feeling aghast by the circle of exercise machines and vowing to myself I wouldn’t sign up.
“Within a few sentences, Justine had me keen to go. She convinced me to add Curves’ workouts to my eating plan and within a few weeks I signed up for Curves Smart. On spring’s first day in 2014 I weighed in as a slimmer, fitter version of the Judith who’d joined Curves
in October, 2013. I’ve lost 10.3 kilograms. I’ve dropped from size 16 to size 10 tops and size 9 bottoms!
“Since joining Curves Smart, I’ve never looked back. I try to work out three mornings a week and while the numbers above speak for themselves, there are also the wonderful releases of serotonin and dopamine.
“I love the 30-minute workout with welcoming and helpful staff who have great senses of humour and being amongst other members whose goals are similar and who are all invariably smiley and friendly.”
Curves and curves.com.au or call 1300 287837.
Filling little spaces
By Kathryn Vukovljak
FOR designers Shah Bahpyu and Darko Andreski, there’s only one person who can approve what they sell in their online shop, Lil Spaces – Shah’s 16-month-old daughter Helaina.
“Pretty much everything in our store, Helaina already owns and loves,” says Shah, 40. “We test everything out on her and if she approves then it’s in.”
Selling typographic prints created by graphic designer Darko, dolls made in France in soft greys and taupes and creative, educational books, the pair’s shop opened in September from their base in Forde, where Shah lives with her partner Mitch and baby Helaina.
“Helaina is my god-daughter, and since she was born I’ve wanted to find the coolest things for her,” says Darko, 26. “I’d scour the internet for things that were unique and quirky, well made and affordable.
“I decided to make a her print called ‘Helaina in Wonderland’, and from there I started to make posters for her that were cool, would appeal to kids but that parents would like to have around, too. Shah would give me feedback and we realised we shared the same aesthetic – sophisticated and fun. We call it ‘sophistifun’. So we decided to work together and created Lil Spaces.”
At the time, Shah was designing Helaina’s bedroom.
“At first I didn’t think she needed a nursery because she wouldn’t know the difference,” she says. “But once she was here I wanted to create the most perfect little space for her.”
The room has featured on interior design websites and Shah says she would like to design kids’ rooms as part of the business in the future.
Other things in the pipeline are graphic design services, a kids’ recipe book, baby packages and sentimental, customisable toys made by Shah out of kids’ old clothes.
“We bounce ideas off each other and while we do clash sometimes we always end up with a better product in the end,” says Darko.
“For me, design is collaborating with other creative people. I’m always looking for a solution that gives a great experience to the consumer; I want them to love the product and experience the magic.”
Shah and Darko plan to keep Lil Spaces as an online store, but they have previously done a pop-up shop in conjunction with other Canberra designers.
“To me, drawing, creating and designing is a form of self-expression,” says Shah. “I like making things, getting my hands dirty and the satisfaction that comes from seeing the results of your project. It’s tangible. With most jobs you know you’ve done a good job if you don’t get any complaints, but with this I can see the results straight away.
“And with Helaina as our muse, the ideas keep coming.”
summer buzz sponsored content
Big day at the market Lots to cheer about
CANBERRA Old Bus Depot Markets’ managers and stallholders are getting ready for one of their most popular theme days, Portobello Road, when the markets open for the year on Sunday, January 11. The market will feature collectibles and small antiques including crystal, linen, furniture, glassware and jewellery – plus all the regular market favourites, too. Open from 10am4pm, entry to Portobello Road is free.
More information at obdm.com. au or on Facebook facebook.com/ oldbusdepotmarkets
DEDICATED cheerleading gym, Sirens Cheerleaders, has ended its season as the ACT’s most successful cheerleading program after winning two National Champion titles and several runner up awards at the Australian All Star Cheerleading Federation Nationals on the Gold Coast in November.
Based in Mitchell, Sirens Cheerleaders sent more than 100 athletes aged between 6 and 51 to compete in the Nationals.
In 2015, 14 teenage athletes will represent Australia at the “Duel in the Desert” in California, US, as the ACT’s first international
touring team for cheerleading. Sirens is looking for new athletes to join its recreational program, with Term 1 starting on February 2. Its coaching team boasts more than 70 years’ combined experience with several instructors having competed at the Cheerleading Worlds.
Sirens Cheerleaders has several summer holiday workshops teaching dance, stunt, tumble and jump in a fun, friendly and safe environment. Athletes aged from 18 months are welcome.
Darko and Shah... “We bounce ideas off each other and while we do clash sometimes we always end up with a better product in the end.”
Photo by Holly Treadaway
lowbrow
Feeling fear in our brave new world
DO you want to know what fear feels like in our brave new world?
Imagine waking up to hundreds of concerned friends leaving you messages because someone is populating every post you’re involved with on Facebook with disgusting untrue claims about you.
Even if a Facebook profile is relatively locked down, friends of friends can post. If you’ve got a few hundred friends and they’ve each got a few hundred friends the odds of one of them having an axe to grind and not understanding defamation law starts to climb.
Fear is hearing from friends that the same lies are being spread on every open Facebook group in town.
Fear is knowing that everyone who ever felt slighted or done down by you are watching this all and feeling their prejudices confirmed.
The advice when being subjected to this sort of abuse is to block the abuser.
This is bloody awful advice.
Once you block them you can’t see what they’re posting and you can’t contact them to tell them to stop, and you can’t even see their posts on your own Facebook profile to delete them. Everyone else can see them.
So you have to unblock the axe grinder, which lets them back into your life, and then you have to wait 48 hours before you can block them again.
Try contacting Facebook about the abuse? They’re even less helpful than the advice to block the abuser. They want a specific link to the abusive comment. Not much help when this stuff has been pasted in hundreds of places, not all of them known to you.
In this case we’re talking about a single protagonist. Imagine the sheer terror if even just a half dozen are in on the game?
If you’ve followed Facebook’s advice and blocked the grief giver they’ll ask you to enlist a friend to produce the evidence, with vile lies this might not be in your top list of things you want to do, or that your friends want to do.
If you’ve deleted the abusive post on your profile (but know there are hundreds more spread out there)
The wheels of justice can turn expensively and slowly, but every beep is another awful lie being spread.
the Facebook admins will blithely say the one post you reported is no longer online so don’t worry.
They won’t get out there and pursue all the other defamation you’re not specifically aware of.
With the fear in full flight imagine how it feels when every single notification comes up on your phone?
Have they started again?
Every single beep and bingle on your phone can be, and until you check it is, the start of another torrent of abuse.
You can go see a lawyer. The lawyer can get an injunction, the wheels of justice can turn expensively and slowly, but every beep is another awful lie being spread.
In the case I’m talking about the victim unblocked the abuser and gave them an ultimatum of stopping it or having their lives sued out of existence, for now they’ve stopped.
But it’s still too late. The poison is out there. Some people will believe it.
If you see something awful on social media the real question shouldn’t be “did they do it?”, but “why didn’t the accuser take this to the police instead of spreading it here?”
John
Griffiths is the online editor of citynews.com.au
JOHN GRIFFITHS
The Academy night club provided 2014’s greatest hit, at least of the ones
Human body found in Jerrabomberra Creek:
First they said it was a human body, then a pig in a tarp. Then it turned out the pig was wearing army boots, which in many ways was more disturbing.
Australia’s largest trampoline centre opens in Hume: Every day since we published the story a steady stream of parents came to find out what the Flip Out trampoline centre was all about. Notably, more interest arose on rainy days.
Civic to get a bar dedicated to computer games:
A dedicated bar opening for nerds on Northbourne Avenue was very popular on the internet. This should not be an enormous surprise. The story was a steady burner for weeks. The “Reload” bar is now open for business in the evenings.
Measles in Charnwood and at Calvary.
Were you exposed?:
A measles outbreak at Calvary Hospital and a Charnwood church had parents all over Canberra getting excited.
RECENT
at greater risk of suicide around the holiday period than during the rest of the year. Not being with friends and family during the holidays can be lonely, sometimes seeing family members can bring up past hurts and excessive drinking can lead to poor decisions or fights.
So this is a great time to reach out to family, friends and workmates and check that they are okay.
We know that talking about suicide helps. Talking to a family member, trusted friend, your doctor, health professional or a telephone counselling service is the first step in getting help. Far from increasing the risk of suicide, talking is a vital way of accessing support, so “Let’s Talk for Suicide Prevention”!
Anyone feeling suicidal should call Lifeline on 131114 or the ACT Health, Mental Health Crisis Assessment and Treatment Team on 6205 1065 or 1800 629354 or present to your local hospital emergency department (all of these services operate 24 hours, every day of the year).
“Let’s Talk for Suicide Prevention” is the ACT Government suicide prevention campaign – health. act.gov.au/suicideprevention
USING the most advanced technology and personalised support, Evo Health Club at the Hotel Realm offers a new world of exercise.
Its newest innovation, My Wellness Cloud, is compatible with smartphones, tablets, computers and smart televisions and allows Evo’s personal trainers to monitor a member’s fitness, helping him or her to tailor future routines accordingly.
As a result, members experience increased motivation through clearly defined routines to follow and constant feedback on their progress.
Evo Health Club is also home to Kinesis, a type of training that helps improve balance, flexibility and strength, particularly around the body’s core. Members can also enjoy Evo’s beautiful wet area featuring a 25-metre lap pool, sauna, steam room and hydrotherapy spa.
Evo Health Club, evohealthclub.com.au, email workout@evohealthclub.com.au or call 6162 0808.
THE highly experienced and professional team at Sitthara Therapeutic Massage & Spa have been carefully selected for their skilful ability in giving relaxing and intuitive massages.
Sitthara offers a totally organic experience, using only 100 per cent virgin coconut oil and the very best essential oils. Coconut oil, with its inherent anti-ageing benefits, can help improve the skin’s appearance by nourishing the skin and its connective tissues, helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and lines. Coconut oil applied topically also acts as an exfoliator.
The rooms at Sitthara Therapeutic Massage & Spa are generously proportioned. Foot massages are done in sumptuously comfortable electrically operated recliner chairs in the dedicated foot reflexology room.
The spa’s newly installed Finnish hot-rock saunas and showers are complimentary with any treatment of one hour or more.
Sitthara Therapeutic Massage & Spa, 36 Mort Street, Braddon, open 10am-10pm, call 6262 5266
Police released video of a Civic assault. It’s one big punch:
caught on CCTV.
mum in the city
Resolving resolutions
FOR me, this is the best time of the year. It’s all sleep-ins and sunshine, catching up with friends and family and eating food one shouldn’t.
For a short time, work gets put aside and hours can slip by without a care, and certainly without that sinking feeling that all I need to do hasn’t quite got done yet. With peace and quiet and time to think I try to make a few big decisions about how I am going to do things differently in the year ahead. Yep, we’re talking New Year resolutions.
Because I’m holidaying in Adelaide, a town I left when I was 20, this year my thoughts have turned to resolutions past and how, over the years, my goals and plans have changed.
For example, health is at the top of my list these days. When I was 20 it was not so much about health as appearance. Back then I was going to get myself into some lycra, take up aerobics and eat nothing but grapes all year so I could look like Elle Macpherson. Now my New Year plans include booking that overdue bone-density test, getting my gut flora checked, staying on top of the cholesterol and recommitting to regular appointments with the dietician so that I can lose some serious weight. How things have changed. The same goes with that old chestnut of work-life balance.
Years ago the challenge was how to maintain my frenetic social life and spend serious quality time with my friends while still getting through my university course exams. These days I’m trying to balance a busy job with family commitments including wrangling kids
When I was 19 it was all about saving up for clothes, a car or a trip overseas. Now it’s
all about working out how to afford to ever retire.
with increasing homework, huge sporting commitments and parties, maintaining standards that fall far short of a Domestic Goddess, getting dinner on the table and accomplishing the weekly grocery shopping, keeping up to date with the laundry and everything else that has to get done. My social life and sometimes my other half have totally fallen out of that equation.
Then there is the old financial savings resolution one. When I was 19 that was all about saving up for clothes, a car or a trip overseas. Now it’s all about working out how to afford to ever retire.
Priorities change and resolutions evolve over the years. Perhaps the one constant is that when February and March come around, many of the old patterns will have fallen back into place. That was the story when I was 19 and it’s still a bit of the story now. Then there’s the other constant – the March resolutions to try harder and stick to the program.
In the words of the old French saying – plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose – the more things change, the more they stay the same.
SONYA FLADUN
A touch of paradise
FOR families, couples, executives or anybody who needs to get away from it all, relax and wind down, Lilli Pilli Sublime offers holiday accommodation in a spacious, four-bedroom house (with rumpus/games room) nestled in the surrounds of Lilli Pilli Beach Estate on the outskirts of Batemans Bay. Only 300 metres’ walk to the beach, everything in the house is new including furniture, kitchenware, linen etcetera.
The Lilli Pilli Sublime vibe is very much a tropical
SUNDAY ROAST
one with a Bali-style garden, an additional outdoor kitchen barbecue area with Asian-inspired stone sculptures and fountains that add a touch of paradise to the house’s already idyllic position overlooking natural bush. Guests can enjoy the many beaches in the area and cool off in the outdoor shower. Call 0412 800857, email lillipillisublime@me.com or visit stayz.com.au/accommodation/nsw/south-coast/ batemans-bay/107076
Stay in touch with the names making news on Sundays from 10am as 2CC and “CityNews” present Canberra’s only local weekend news and current affairs program. It’s a revolving panel show that brings to the microphone great “CityNews” commentators and 2CC personalities. Be part of the conversation and call 6255
Photos by Tabitha Mann Photography
Two bob each way
POLITICAL columnist Michael Moore had two bob each way on Katy Gallagher’s performance (CN, December 11).
Given Robert Macklin’s two experiences in the Emergency Department, (page 4), Moore’s reporting that the former Chief Minister regards health as one of her proudest achievements must carry doubt.
Moore’s statement: “Build a jail and the judiciary will fill it” is nonsense. Drugs are associated with 70 per cent of crime, but the government will not fund proven drug-free treatments, so commonsense dictated from its opening that our jail would overflow.
About 10 years ago, the ACT government refused an offer from Dr O’Neil to conduct his successful Perth naltrexone implant treatment here. He is funded $1.2 million annually by the WA government. Recently I met three Canberra residents now drug-free following his treatment. The $54 million on our jail’s extension would have paid for a long-term residential rehabilitation centre here and up to 10,000 treatments by Dr O’Neil, also here, far more than opiate dependent persons in the ACT.
Colliss Parrett, Drug Advisory Council of Australia, Barton
Cheaper than choppers
I READ that ACTEW has been using helicopters to examine its electricity lines to see whether they present a danger during the bushfire season.
As someone who flies a helicopter from time to time, I regard this as an extravagance when other options are available such as drones and fixed-wing aircraft with video capabilities.
The small Robinson 22 I fly costs 16 cents a second and I suspect the large ACTEW helicopters would be closer to 75 cents a second.
ACTEW should provide some cost benefit analysis of its use of helicopters that only serve, along with its excessive pay to executives, to drive up our electricity bills.
Ric Hingee, Duffy
Selfies may hold the secret to fun in Civic
By Catherine Carter
THE most curious “selfies” are emerging from Newcastle.
Novocastrians are snapping themselves walking a dinosaur on a leash, reeling in a shark, perching on a painted throne or posing in front of a sign heralding “Newcastle’s most attractive couple”.
Newcastle-based artist Trevor Dickinson has inspired locals by tapping into the popularity of “selfies”. He’s painted a number of large-scale panels of art around the CBD which form giant
backdrops for happy snaps.
A bit of fun and frivolity, perhaps? Or could this be a way for us to inject some character into Canberra’s CBD while supporting local artists?
As retailers look for clever, creative –not to mention cheap – ways to reactivate the forgotten streets around our city’s CBD, murals can transform the ugly elements of urban life into the über cool.
We certainly have the empty brick walls and overlooked laneways, as well as the iconic images and the talented artists to bring art into our streets. Many of the most popular places in town already feature work from local artists – from
the pop-up shops at the Lonsdale Street Traders to the beer garden at the hip new Hopscotch bar, with its reinterpretation of the “Last Supper” by 16-year-old street artist Solomon Grainger.
Interestingly, Dickinson has drawn urban scenes of Canberra before, including the iconic Starlight Drive-In sign, the disused diving platforms at Canberra Olympic Pool, the curved concrete bus shelters dotted through our suburbs and the “wrong way go back sign” perched below the flagpole of Parliament House.
Trevor says he looks at a city with an outsider’s eye – capturing details
that locals don’t usually notice, but that inspire them to appreciate their city from a new angle.
So, imagine taking a leisurely walk through our CBD, stopping to capture the kids as they fish for fat, juicy carp on the banks of Lake Burley Griffin, as they pose alongside an army of grey-suited public servants wearing crazy hats and masquerade masks, or as they loll on the green slopes of Parliament House alongside a Hills Hoist and Victa lawnmower. Quirky? That’s Canberra.
Catherine Carter is ACT executive director of the Property Council of Australia.
Lilli Pilli Sublime is a destination unlike any other. We offer holiday accommodation in a spacious, delightfully decorated 4 bedroom house with rumpus/games room, and a Moroccan themed outdoor kitchen area with BBQ.
LPS is nestled in the stunning surrounds of Lilli Pilli Beach Estate in an idyllic position overlooking natural bush land on the outskirts of Batemans Bay, NSW.
For families, couples, executives or anybody who needs to get away from it all, relax and wind down, LPS offers something special. We provide WiFi, Foxtel with all channels, playstation with games, Nespresso Coffee Machine, linen including beach towels and baby items at no extra cost.
The LPS vibe is very much a tropical one with its hot and cold private outdoor shower. Its Bali inspired garden adds a touch of paradise and is pleasantly styled with Asian stone sculptures, fountains and bamboo.
Guests can enjoy the many beaches in the area; Lilli Pilli Beach is just a 300 m walk. Take in the fresh ocean air and sounds of the wildlife.
Luxury comfort and style - these are the three principles upon which the hosts have built the LPSublime experiences.
One of artist Trevor Dickinson’s large-scale panels on walls around Newcastle.
Marketing makes its mark on the Memorial
CC’s heart sank to discover advertising festooning the front of the Australian War Memorial. Is it a sacred shrine to our nation’s fallen or just another Canberra gallery?
The debate a few years back of charging an entrance fee was lost on the logic it was a shrine not a gallery and should remain free. But not, however, free of vulgar marketing.
While the banners are promoting the AWM’s own shows, CC can’t see the point of having them there nor the justification of distracting from the facade of the memorial.
“I hate it! Feels like it’s a desecration,” writes CC’s startled snout.
Hope for Irene
HERE’S a hopeful update on Irene Elliott , who has featured in “CityNews” over recent times, as she fights for her life against advanced multiple sclerosis.
She has been accepted on to a clinical trial of autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant treatment in St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney.
The trial comes after a series of disappointments with overseas options for treatment, and a severe relapse in September.
The first stage, stem cell collection, has been successful with 17 million cells harvested. The next
Advertising arrives at the shrine, or is it a gallery?
stage of major chemo and stem cell replacement is planned for March.
“I’m feeling fairly tired from the recent chemo and treatment, plus the long road to date is taking its toll,” she says. “At the same time I am so pleased to have hope.”
Her family raised almost $90,000 for the hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in a “Big Fat Greek Fundraiser”, but just weeks before she was due to travel to India for a high-risk treatment, she received the news
that the treatment was no longer available. “It was devastating, but what was even worse was that around the same time I suffered an unbelievably severe MS attack. I’ve never been more scared,” she says.
‘Ick’, ‘eek’, but okay
The “ick” and “eek” factors have been highlighted in this year’s list of most complained about advertisements, according to figures
We can also custom make
from the Advertising Standards Bureau.
But none of the 10 most complained about advertisements breached the code, despite a record 5600 complaints for the year, with many due to uncomfortable scenes in advertisements.
The most complained about ad was for an online dating website, aimed at married people looking to have an affair, with 481 people lodging complaints.
Another ad for a takeaway service that used scenes reminiscent of the last supper received 228 complaints. One advertiser had three separate ads in the top 10, which featured nose-picking and farting, with a total of 636 complaints received about all three ads.
Here are the five most complained about ads in 2014:
1. Ashley Madison - “Avid Life”, TV ad featuring married men singing “I’m looking for someone other than my wife”. Dismissed. Number of complaints: 481
2. “My Plates”, TV ad featuring a man repeatedly passing wind in a car.
Dismissed. Number of complaints: 250
3. “Menulog”, TV ad featuring a Da Vinci character painting the last supper.
Dismissed. Number of complaints: 228
4. “My Plates”, TV ad featuring a man picking his nose and wiping it on a car door. Dismissed. Number of complaints: 206
5. Johnson & Johnson, TV ad highlighting embarrassing menstrual experiences. Dismissed. Number of complaints: 185
Something’s Wong
THE Long Wong barbecue and roast restaurant has a large, shiny sign announcing its presence in Dickson, with the supplementary promise of “the origianl Canton style”. You’d think the signwriter might have alerted them.
In the leaves
ASPIRING lawyer, writer and tea enthusiast, Adam Spence , read the fine print on the Tetley label and tweeted: “If you know about how tea is picked and graded, you’ll spot what’s wrong with this straight away…” And if you don’t, the choicest tea comes from smaller leaves.
Irene Elliott… hopeful.
All from the love of Albert
By Helen Musa
“THERE aren’t five generations of Drysdales or Whitley’s working now,” Scott Rankin, the director of Big hART theatre company, says.
Not, he might have added, like the Namatjira family, the subject of a unique exhibition showing at Parliament House through summer, brought to town by Big hART’s “Namatjira” project, Ngurratjuta Many Hands Art Centre and Ntaria
(Hermannsburg) School.
The artists are descendants of the celebrated watercolor artist Albert Namatjira, whose name is synonymous with delicate visions of the landscapes in subtle, unexpected colours.
The exhibition, curated by Alison French, demonstrates the resilience of an artist’s family over five generations, coming to Canberra from a community that still faces challenges.
Once known in lounge rooms throughout Australia, Namatjira has in recent years been eclipsed by Central Australian artists famous for their dot paintings, but this show of watercolours,
Hot summer fun
On stage
ENTER a magical journey through the seasons with Charlie & Lola in “Charlie & Lola’s Extremely New Play”. The sequel to “Charlie & Lola’s Best Bestest Play”, the stars of the hit ABC and BBC TV series and books by Lauren Child, are brought to life through puppetry, live action and music at The Playhouse, January 10-11.
PRESENTING an artform 2500 years in the making, Sri Lanka’s oldest and most prestigious dance company, Chitrasena Dance Company, will perform “Dancing for the Gods” at The Playhouse, January 15.
Exhibitions
THE Australian War Memorial has two recently opened exhibitions – “Ben Quilty: After Afghanistan” and “Alex Seton: As of Today”, on display until May 27.
“SPIRITED: Australia’s Horse Story”, at the National Museum features icons of Australia’s thoroughbred racing history, horsedrawn vehicles and riding equipment, and trophies won by leading equestrians and rodeo stars. It closes on March 9.
THE National Portrait Gallery’s “In the Flesh” exhibition features 10 Australian artists confronting the concept of humanness and the experiences of consciousness and emotion through contemporary art.
which brings together five generations of the Hermannsburg School, should help viewers to be “mindful of the incredible heritage on show… remarkable art from a fragile community,” as Rankin says.
Recently five senior Western Aranda watercolour artists and three young artists travelled from Ntaria and Alice Springs to Parliament House to unveil the exhibition of spectacular desert landscapes of the Hermannsburg watercolour movement across five generations, including an animation from students at the Ntaria School, shown alongside watercolours by Albert Namatjira himself.
Lenie Namatjira, granddaughter of Albert, told those present “we are teaching the young ones to paint – just like my family and the other Western Aranda watercolour painters once did.”
The Canberra trip was a response to the recognition the Namatjira family received in London when touring with Big hART’s production “Namatjira” in 2013. During their visit, descendants Lenie and Kevin Namatjira were invited to an audience with the Queen, who owns a number of Namatjira watercolours.
“It was a great honour to meet the Queen and to be able to tell her that we need help to get Aboriginal children to paint,” Lenie said.
With luck, Big hART believes, the exhibition will serve as an argument for housing and support of the Namatjiras’ art centre, to ensure that the fifth, sixth and seventh generations of the family can enjoy basic human rights and a sustainable arts practice.
“Namatjira to Now: Five Generations of Watercolours in the Central Desert,” Presiding Officer’s Exhibition Area, Parliament House, until February 9. Entry is free.
THE recently opened summer blockbuster exhibition at the National Gallery of Australia is “James Turrell: A Retrospective” “Alive and Spirited” is showing in the Children’s Gallery.
For kids
THE Kingston Glassworks is running various summer programs including “Make Your Own Tiles” until January 25, “Make Your Own Paperweight” and “The Great Glass Adventure” that offers a special behind-the-scenes journey for kids.
THE National Film and Sound Archive is showing classic Disney films in the Arc Cinema throughout January, starting with “Bambi” on January 7; “Alice in Wonderland”, January 11; “Lady and the Tramp”, January 14; “The Jungle Book”, January 18, and “The Aristocats”, January 21.
THE National Museum will be opening the “Discovery Space: Carts, Carriages and Carousels” on weekdays between January 12 -23. Children can make their own hobby horse or horse drawn toy cart, inspired by the toys on show in the “Spirited: Australia’s Horse Story” exhibition.
Sport
THE Canberra Capitals will challenge the West Coast Waves on January 9 and on January 15 play the Sydney Uni Flames at the AIS Arena.
THE AFC Asian Cup will kick off in Canberra on January 10 with a match between Korea Republic and Oman at Canberra Stadium, followed by UAE vs Qatar on January 11, Kuwait vs Korea Republic on January 13, Bahrain vs UAE on January 15, China PR vs DPR Korea on January 18, and Iraq vs Palestine on January 20.
THE Prime Minister’s XI plays England under lights at the Manuka Oval, on January 14.
summer buzz sponsored content
Sounds of the young
FAMILIES from across Canberra
will have the opportunity to spend January summer nights on the shores of Lake Ginninderra at Belconnen Arts Centre listening to some of Australia’s most talented performers, as part of the Young Music Society’s Summer School concert series.
The concerts will feature the Summer School’s ensembles-inresidence, including Canberra
favourites The Griffyn Ensemble and Dr Stovepipe.
The Summer School (January 5-16) is an annual program for 400 kids.
Other events during the fortnight include a collaboration with the Canberra Cavalry and a Musical Market Place.
Young Music Society, youngmusicsociety.org.au, 6161 3782.
Aretha Namatjira in front of a painting by Kevin Namatjira.
Mervyn Rubuntja and his work “Trephina Gorge”, 2014, watercolour on paper.
Cheyanne Driffen and Semra White, from Ntaria School, in front of “Tjurretja – West MacDonnell Ranges” by Ntaria School students. Photos by Greer Versteeg
arts in the city Rocket men of the cello
THEY’VE toured with Elton John, their version of AC/ DC’s “Highway to Hell” has scored 25 million hits on YouTube and now the young Croatian cellists Luka Sulic and Stjepan Hauser, together known as 2Cellos, are performing in Canberra on January 8 at Llewellyn Hall. Bookings to ticketek.com.au
THAT giant of glass art, Klaus Moje, has donated a piece from his 2007 “Roll Up” series valued at $17,500 for an exclusive raffle aimed at supporting the work of the Canberra Glassworks. The piece is on display in the Glassworks foyer. Tickets are $50, available at the Glassworks or by phone on 6260 7005.
BELGIAN jazz composer/pianist Jef Neve will appear solo in concert at Bungendore Wood Works, 6pm, Saturday January 17. Classically trained at Leuven’s Lemmensinstituut, the young Flemish pianist has been in everything from orchestras to funk-pop bands. The evening will feature a dinner in the Wood Works Gallery and, from 8pm, the concert and dessert in Cafe Wood Works. Bookings to 6238 1817 or bwoodworks.com.au
JARON Freeman-Fox & The Opposite of Everything, Ontario’s five-piece fusion ensemble, will be at Smith’s Alternative at 7.30pm on Wednesday, January 21. Bookings to 6247 4459.
PHOTOACCESS is offering summer workshops and courses for adults and children throughout January and February. For young people, there are the Summer Digital Photography School and Kids’ Day in the Darkroom. For adults there are two introductory programs in film photography and the darkroom. Details and enrolments to photoaccess.org.au
BEN & Jerry’s Openair Cinemas are “back with a bang”, bringing music by day and movies by night on the Patrick White Lawns, next to the National Library, from January 18 until February 22. The music, every Saturday and Sunday, comes with free ice cream and games as part of the “Sundae Sessions”. Open Tuesday to Sunday, films will be shown on a 12m by 6m screen. Bookings and details at openaircinemas.com.au
“SUMMER of Smiles” is how the Australian National Botanic Gardens describes its program of summer events. The annual highlight is the month-long 2015 “Summer Sounds with The Central”, live music
underneath the eucalypts, with jazz, swing, big band, Latin American, country, rockabilly, pop and hip hop. Every Saturday & Sunday in January (excluding Jan 31) 5.30pm-7.30pm. For the more intrepid there’s the “Snakes Alive!” reptile exhibition presented by the Canberra Herpetological Association in the Gardens from January 12-18.
STRATHNAIRN Arts will run its first summer workshop program at Holt, January 12-16. The four workshops will introduce new techniques and skills, with tutors including printmaker and artist Jo Hollier, mixed media artist Sui Jackson, ceramicist Catherine Drinan and Shibori artist Joan James (Shibori for Children). Bookings to strathnairn.com.au/summerworkshops-2015
CANBERRA Museum and Gallery has “The World of Cricket” exhibition until March 15. Featuring rare material from the Brad man Museum, as well as contemporary items from some of the world’s best teams, the show also sheds light on Canberra’s own cricketing heritage. At CMAG, Civic Square.
HELEN MUSA
Thrills of the silver screen
Film writer DOUGAL MACDONALD
previews the latest movies…
Opening January 8
“Dumb and Dumber To” (M)
TWO decades after the original “Dumb and Dumber”, the Farrelly brothers again join forces to tell how Lloyd (Jim Carrey) helps Harry (Jeff Daniels) to find his daughter. Then pursues her.
At Capitol, 6
“Taken 3” (awaiting unclassification)
LIAM Neeson doing what he’s done for years, caring for his daughter while tracking down and inflicting his personal brand of justice on the bad guys involved in killing his wife. Escapism rampant.
At Dendy and Capitol 6
Opening January 15
“Birdman” (MA)
FAILED movie super-hero (Michael Keaton) tries to re-invent himself as a stage director while confronting a string of disasters.
At Dendy and Capitol 6
“Paper Planes” (G)
DYLAN (Ed Oxenbould) competes in the World Paper Plane Championship in Japan. The plot offers light-hearted humour without becoming too complex. Western Australia looks good.
At Dendy
“Unbroken” (M) Written by the Coen brothers, directed by Angelina Jolie, about a former Olympic athlete (Jack O’Connell) surviving incarceration in a Japanese PoW camp. Sounds promising.
At Dendy and Capitol 6
Information correct at time of writing, but opening dates may vary.
Croatian cellists Luka Sulic and Stjepan Hauser, together known as 2Cellos.
Jaron FreemanFox performing at Smith’s Alternative.
is descriptive of starlike?
1 What is the shrub, erica, also known as?
2 Which viral disease is characterised by the swelling of the salivary glands?
3 To postpone proceedings is to do what?
4 What is another name for a spanner?
5 Name a particular type of orange
6 Which cinematic film began in 1927?
7 What are the backs of necks?
13 Name the aquatic larva of frogs
15 Which term is descriptive of competition?
16 Who was the Australian federal Liberal politician, and leader of the opposition 1972-75, Sir Billy ...?
17 What do we call one who lends money at an exorbitant rate of interest?
18 In football, etc, who are the defending players behind the forwards?
19 To cut off from membership, is to do what?
20 Which loose overgarment is worn to protect clothing while at work?
2015 YOUR YEAR IN THE STARS
Astrologer LIBERTY FORREST looks at the year ahead
ASTROLOGIST Liberty Forrest, pictured, is the author of several books and frequent writer for The Huffington Post. Her articles have appeared in publications around the globe, including Canada, US, UK, South Africa, India, Australia, Hong Kong and Singapore. She has featured in several newspaper and magazine articles, and was a frequent studio guest on BBC Regional Radio from 2006-2011 before moving to Canada, where she lives in Calgary, Alberta.
ARIES
(March 21-April 20)
GENERAL
This is bound to be a dynamic year, loaded with energy and opportunity! You’ll feel inspired to turn your ideas into reality. It’s a year of freedom and the pursuit of dreams. Mars boosts your ability to move forward, leaving your fears in the dust.
WORK & FINANCES
This will be a year of great change in terms of career but Saturn and Jupiter work together to stabilise your position. You’ll need an extra dose of discipline and commitment to yield better results. If you’re thinking of a career change, this is a perfect year to do it. Finances look good this year but there is likely to be a large, unexpected expense related to friends or possibly family, so leave a little room for this in the budget.
LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS
Love life and relationships in general are positive this year. Be creative in expressing your feelings. You could be extra sensitive this year; don’t overreact. Be sure you do not dominate your partner.
HEALTH & HAPPINESS
You might be prone to depression and exhaustion until about June so take extra good care of yourself. Be more mindful of diet and rest, and especially be sure to get some exercise.
TAURUS
(April 21-May 21)
GENERAL
Your natural stability and patience will help you work hard and achieve well-earned rewards. This is a time to create dreams, even though you are likely to feel more withdrawn than usual.
WORK & FINANCES
This year, you are planting seeds. It is a year of plodding along with hard work but it will pay off in time. Team efforts will be more productive than anything you can do on your own this year. It is not a good year for spending. Focus on saving instead.
LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS
Relationships will be more fulfilling than ever before, whether romantic, family or friendship. Home takes on new importance for you this year but you must remember to check your ego at the door. Old lessons take on new meaning.
HEALTH & HAPPINESS
Health is likely to be up and down a lot this year. Do your best to mind your lifestyle choices so you can try to level out the roller-coaster. You may be more prone to infections than usual this year, so take extra good care of yourself to boost your immunity.
GEMINI
(May 22-June 21)
GENERAL
This is likely to be a year of great change in your personal life. After several years of trials and tribulations, the hardships begin to ease and this year allows you some forward movement, both personally and professionally.
WORK & FINANCES
Where work is involved, expect this year to be intense. Long term goals become increasingly important but do not forget the more immediate ones. You might find yourself butting heads with colleagues or bosses. Yes, integrity is essential, but think before you speak.
LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS
Romantic relationships thrive this year, with new stability and depth. Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and reach a new level of closeness. Singles need to be extra cautious in choosing partners this year. Best time to find love is mid-year.
HEALTH & HAPPINESS
The first half of the year might be more demanding than usual on all levels. Do your best to relax and find some balance. It is an important time to develop spiritual pursuits, such as meditation, yoga or related studies and practices. Good fortune is yours near the end of the year.
CANCER
(June 22-July 23)
GENERAL
This is a year of renewed energy and vitality. You will be shown numerous opportunities for growth and happiness. Keep recreational activities to a minimum and focus on your personal journey and development. You will be susceptible to making rash decisions; try not to succumb.
WORK & FINANCES
Career is very much supported by the planets this year, allowing you to move even closer to your goals. You will be noticed by authorities where you’ve been overlooked in the past. It is also a year of good luck regarding finances; but be especially aware of your spending in the second half of the year. Mind your budget.
LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS
If you are single, this year should give you lots of time and opportunity to find love. If you are in a relationship, old issues show promise of disappearing into new growth.
HEALTH & HAPPINESS
You will find great happiness in being creative this year. Energy levels will be high, allowing you to be more dynamic than ever. Emotionally, you might feel drained but you should stay quite strong physically, and easily accomplish even more than usual.
LEO
(July 24-Aug 23)
GENERAL
You’re on fire this year, Leo. Watch for loads of opportunities for new projects and change in all areas of your life. If you have a new goal or dream, now is the time to begin to implement it, as Jupiter is all set to help you make it happen.
WORK & FINANCES
Finances could be more difficult this year so do not spend unless you must. You will be especially prone to get-rich-quick schemes but you must listen to your intuition and be cautious. Career shows great promise and you’ll have loads of great ideas but might have to fight for your position.
LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS
Relationships flow quite nicely this year. Speak up if there is something nagging at you and be very sure to pay attention to anything that doesn’t feel quite right. For singles, it’s a great year to find love.
HEALTH & HAPPINESS
It is time to bury old grievances. Let them go now, and allow your unusually strong creative streak to flourish. It is a good year to begin a new health regimen. Take stock, rethink and adjust accordingly.
VIRGO
(Aug 24-Sep 23)
GENERAL
You can expect major change in your personal life and in your finances, with success being right there for you to grab. But don’t become cocky; over-confidence will be your undoing. Be ready to help others more than usual this year.
WORK & FINANCES
There are lots of opportunities for you in your career this year, so do whatever you can to consolidate your position. It is time to get serious about defining and pursuing exactly what it is you want.
LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS
Relationships might be more challenging than usual this year. The first half of the year is most conducive to your displays of affection and expressions of emotion. You might be more sensitive than usual so be careful not to overreact. The second half of the year should be more serene.
HEALTH & HAPPINESS
The planets encourage you toward intellectual growth now. You should also have good health on all levels for the most part, although the second half of the year could find you having an unexpected concern. Along with this, digestive and nervous systems might go off the rails so do your best to look after yourself in all respects.
LIBRA
(Sep 24-Oct 23)
GENERAL
You couldn’t ask for a better year. You should be able to move forward in any areas to which you direct your energies. You will be particularly creative this year but need to be mindful of keeping your feet on the ground. You will be prone to too much impatience and it will only create delays. Relax.
WORK & FINANCES
You might find people pushing against you in your career. You must be firm yet cautious in how you respond to this. Finances should generally be okay this year but be mindful of your spending around the middle of the year, as you could create unnecessary problems.
LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS
Communication flows more freely this year and relationships deepen. Let go of your insecurities and trust in what you know, rather than in what you fear. Love is in the air for singles, too, so get out and mingle.
HEALTH & HAPPINESS
This is likely to be an emotional year that might leave you more tired than usual. Although in many ways there are lots of opportunities to advance this year, it does come at a price. Look after yourself so you stay on top of your game.
SCORPIO
(Oct 24-Nov 22)
GENERAL
This is a perfect year for you to review your life’s goals and ambitions, so seize them and make them happen. You will probably find that your personal life will overlap with your professional life but try to avoid this wherever possible; it won’t work well this year.
WORK & FINANCES
Career is more important to you this year. New contacts will be made, helping to move you forward in some way. This is no time to sit back and relax. Use this powerful energy to advance. Reassess your budget and understand that you will need to be frugal and save your money this year.
LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS
Relationship changes are likely this year. You will feel the need to be more open and honest, which can only be of benefit. Singles have better prospects for long-term relationships to develop this year.
HEALTH & HAPPINESS
You will need to put forth a lot of hard work this year in all areas of your life but you will be rewarded for it. Make sure you take time for family and friends, and be aware that mid-year might see you more tired than usual. Be sure you take good care of yourself.
SAGITTARIUS
(Nov 23-Dec 21)
GENERAL
The coming year will see you having more confidence in yourself and in your abilities than ever before. This will help you achieve more than you anticipated too, but you must be focused and clear about where you’re going. This should be a very lucky year for you.
WORK & FINANCES
Finances should be great this year, but this does not mean you should throw caution to the wind. You will need some financial stability this year. Although money seems to flow in, there is the potential for it to flow out at least as easily. Career will be about a lot of teamwork. Artistic fields see opportunity for growth.
LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS
You will be more attractive than usual to romantic interests this year. But avoid being impulsive in this area; it will not serve you well. Relationships need patience and tolerance this year more than ever.
HEALTH & HAPPINESS
Overall, your health should be stable this year. Mid-year, you might have some nervous or muscular issues, so do take care of yourself to avoid these concerns. Social and charity work will figure prominently in your life this year. Avoid pessimism in all areas of life.
CAPRICORN
(Dec 22-Jan 20)
GENERAL
Your talent and creativity should see you in the spotlight this year. You will have lots of freedom to show the world just what you can do – if you take those opportunities to do it. Do not lose sight of your goals.
WORK & FINANCES
Your hard work begins to pay off this year, but it doesn’t mean you can rest just yet. It will be a busy period, requiring your dedication and commitment. Finances look good, too, thanks to Jupiter. Be sure you don’t spend like there’s no tomorrow, just because you’re on a financial high. Budget, budget, budget!
LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS
Relationships take a back seat for now and things should be rather quiet – a good thing, with all this energy and focus on work. Whatever was bothering you about your
love life seems to disappear; you’ve reached a place of greater understanding between you and your partner.
HEALTH & HAPPINESS
You will have a lot of responsibility both personally and professionally this year, but make sure you do not deprive yourself of the simple pleasures in life. You should have good health and vitality most of the year, but do not take advantage of this by making foolish lifestyle choices.
AQUARIUS
(Jan 21-Feb 19)
GENERAL
Buckle up – this could be an intense year in all respects. You will need to make sure you are at your best so you can keep on top of things. Make sure you show your confidence to the world and seize any opportunities that are presented to you and that serve you well. The world is your oyster.
WORK & FINANCES
Career takes a back seat for now, so be prepared not to make major moves forward. This does not mean that nothing is happening. In fact, you stand to be noticed and to gain much-needed experience this year. Just keep moving forward one step at a time.
• Quality custom designed chairs, sofas and bedheads
• Re-upholstery of dining chairs, sofas, chairs and ottomans
• Window seat cushions, outdoor cushions and scatter cushions
• Upholstered wall panels for warmth, peace & quiet
• Free consultation with an experienced designer in store
• A local business that has been in Canberra for 30 years
Overall, your relationship should be fairly stable this year but there might be some bumpy periods that could involve temporary separations or “glitches”. Improved communication is essential for both of you now. The second half of the year offers your relationship more stability, even for the very long term.
HEALTH & HAPPINESS
Things will become quieter, perhaps even a bit lonely by year’s end but after an intense year, you can use this period to go inward, and recharge your batteries. Overall, your health should be fine this year; that doesn’t mean you should abuse it.
PISCES
(Feb 20-March 20)
GENERAL
Be sure that you remain focused and constructive throughout this demanding year. Don’t put things off; you will only become more frustrated. You might have to work at being patient this year. You will enjoy a lot of growth both personally and professionally.
WORK & FINANCES
Career should hold steady this year, with professional growth continuing. If you are in spiritual or humanitarian
work, your patience will be rewarded. Finances could go either way; there are equal opportunities for income to flow to you and to flow away from you, so choose wisely and save money where possible.
LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS
Your love life should be excellent this year. You will find yourself better able to express yourself to your partner. Relationships deepen. If you are single, this is a great time to find that special someone and it is likely to be a friend or neighbour, someone you know already.
HEALTH & HAPPINESS
Health should be okay this year, but you must be mindful of not letting your emotional nature create unnecessary ailments, exhaustion or depression. You know you need to take care of yourself before you can take care of others, but you do tend to forget this; stop that.
Distributed by Auspac Media.
Your week in the stars Canberra’s favourite horoscope every week in CityNews
summer jumbo crossword
u
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Not time to slack off
WHILE January and February are the hottest months, this is not the time for completely slacking off in the garden.
But don’t overdo it – small jobs can be done in the cooler times of early in the morning or late evening. Now is the time to:
• lift and replant flowering bulbs, such as daffodils, that may be overcrowded or in too much shade. Forget those complicated charts on bulb planting depths; simply put the same amount of soil over the bulb as it is thick, ie a daffodil bulb that is 5cm thick, simply plant 10cm deep.
• prune roses at any time in January to promote a flush of blooms in autumn.
• dead-head spent flowers on annuals, such as petunias, for a continuous colour display. At the same time, apply a liquid feed such as Maxicrop Seaweed Plant Nutrient.
With only occasional bursts of hot weather tempered by regular rainfall this has been an ideal time for fruit trees.
• keep nipping out centre shoots of chrysanthemum and fuchsias to encourage more lateral shoots and more flowers.
THE past spring and summer have been some of the best gardening seasons for a long time. With only occasional bursts of hot weather tempered by regular rainfall this has been an ideal time for fruit trees, when a heavy abundance of fruit can result in broken branches. So it’s good to provide support and pick the fruit as soon as it’s ripe.
Keep citrus trees watered by building an earth bank around the tree, but well back from the trunk. This bank, which should hold at least several buckets of water, will only need filling once a week. Apply Neutrog Seamungus pelleted plant food around the drip line.
WITH our massive evaporation losses on hot days, mulching is the key to good gardening. Most landscape designers recommend Canberra Sand and Gravel’s Canberra Organic Mulch to a thickness of at least 50-75mm.
If existing mulch has compacted, usually due to storm rain, I suggest lightly hoeing or raking it over, which can be combined with weeding. Be careful not to puncture the drip
irrigation lines and keep mulch back from the trunk of trees and shrubs to prevent collar rot.
CANBERRA has a wide variety of garden clubs, the oldest being the Horticultural Society of Canberra, which was founded in 1926. The club’s publication, “The Canberra Gardener”, is available from most bookshops and newsagents. It is written especially for our climate by members of the society. Anyone wanting more details about matching their interests with a particular garden club please contact me at cedricbryant@ grapevine.com.au
All of Cedric Bryant’s columns are available at citynews.com.au
Glorious crabapple spring blossoms in Canberra.
We’re proud to be building Canberra and 2015 will see us build it in a big way!
Jamie Durie is putting the finishing touches on Observatory Living in Wright, Canberra’s tallest residential tower, Wayfarer Apartments, will soar into the sky and we are excited to release our biggest project to date; Southport, located at Tuggeranong’s new Southquay precinct. Stay tuned for later in 2015 when we get set to release our 600-plus unit towers on Anthony Rolfe Avenue in Gungahlin.
