150806 citynews

Pinky power of ‘gentle parenting’

KATE

nationally known parenting consultant who urges mothers to get in touch with their instincts rather than the internet...

AS a mum of five and grandmother of three littlies, Pinky McKay preaches what she practices as one of Australia’s foremost parenting consultants. She’s a Melbourne-based advocate for gentle parenting and encourages mothers to get in touch with their natural instincts to respond to their babies.

“Babies and toddlers are people, too, and they deserve empathy and respect, not ‘training’ through techniques such as rigid routines, controlled crying or spanking,” she says.

“This allows children to respond positively to their environment and to develop boundaries through mutual respect and strong family relationships.”

Pinky is the guest speaker at this month’s Canberra Baby & Beyond Expo at the AIS Arena.

She trained as a nurse but, on a whim, enrolled in a copywriting course that took her career in a different direction; she started writing health education and parenting articles for magazines.

Her no-nonsense parenting approach hit a welcome chord of relief for parents who were becoming overwhelmed and increasingly anxious with the overload of information about babies available on the internet.

“Information was kept in an ivory tower before the internet. Now people have all the information, but it divides us into camps. We have lost our intuition with so much noise all around us. That’s why I wrote my first book, ‘Parenting by Heart’,” says Pinky.

She has gone on to publish three more books, runs a private practice in Melbourne, is an International Board Certified lactation consultant and launched her own range of “boobie bikkies” specifically to help support the nutritional needs of breastfeeding mothers.

“Today there is more pressure on parents to get it right. Mothers can feel like failures after reading rigid books and it increases anxiety about sleep time and routines. No one tells people that you can make changes gradually, in steps, with love,” she says.

Pinky will give free seminars at the Canberra Baby & Beyond Expo on baby sleep and toddler tactics.

“People are often comfortable with the gentle approach in the first year, but as babies grow older it can be challenging for parents. They need to better understand the capacity of the child to address what is happening,” she says.

“Look at what’s really going on for

your baby – your baby isn’t out to get you! Ask yourself is it safe? Is it respectful? Does it feel right? Take a step back. You know your baby best.

“I have got really lovely emails from women who go from being stressed to enjoying their babies. It’s not acknowledged how hard, tiring and intense motherhood is.”

And her name? “Pinky” seems to

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have been derived from her real name Patricia during school days, though no one in her family, she says, seems terribly sure why.

Canberra Baby & Beyond Expo. AIS Arena, Bruce, 9am-3pm, August 15-16. “CityNews” is the expo’s media partner. Tickets and information at canberrababyexpo.com.au

Film showing for Nepal funds

FUNDS from a fundraising screening of the award-winning movie “Boksi” (The Witch) will go to rebuild an earthquake-affected, remote rural school in Nepal. Presented by the Australian Nepalese Friendship Society Inc and the Canberra Nepalese community, the subtitled movie is based on the popular book by Balkrishna Sama, the “Shakespeare of Nepal”. It’s at the National Film & Sound Archive Theatrette, McCoy Circuit, Acton, 6.30pm, on Friday, August 14. Tickets are $20 ($15 for concessions) and include refreshments on arrival. Bookings via trybooking.com

Panda awards for student art

ENTRIES are open for AustraliaChina Friendship Society’s annual Panda Competition, which is open to students from pre-schools, primary and high schools in the ACT. “The Chinese Garden” is this year’s theme and entrants are invited to creatively focus on an aspect of the topic through drawing, painting, creative works (such as a collage or three-dimensional construction), an essay, poem or other creative individual effort. The competition closes on September 25 and entry details are atacfs.org.au

days

An outrageous week in black and white

Ms Bishop’s overweening sense of entitlement so enraged Australians that less than 20 per cent wanted her to remain in her cushy job.

TWO very different personalities dominated this past week – Tony Abbott’s white-haired girl, Speaker Bronwyn Bishop, and the AFL dark avenger, former Australian of the Year, Adam Goodes

Ms Bishop’s overweening sense of entitlement so enraged Australians that less than 20 per cent wanted her to remain in her cushy job.

And despite an outpouring of criticism from all sides Tony stayed mum.

By week’s end, with his ministers turning on each other – and mischievous Malcolm Turnbull

mimicking her visit to Geelong, which started it all – his options were running out. Hopes that it would all blow over like a passing helicopter had turned to dust. By then, despite her resignation, the damage was done.

So, too, with Adam Goodes. Where was the prime ministerial leadership on an issue that he says is dear to his heart? He’d promised to spend his first week as PM with an Aboriginal community. And while that didn’t quite work out he still claimed to be on the side of the angels. His failure to immediately condemn the dark angels of our humanity was unworthy of the office. And when he did speak he just burbled polliewaffle.

SEX also reared its pretty head as Senators Penny Wong and Cory Bernardi went at it over same-sex marriage at the Press Club. Neither broke new ground, but it did highlight the crazy resolution from the ALP Conference. Labor decided on a “conscience” vote in this parliament but a binding one from 2019, even if they win government

next year. Go figure.

IT was almost as illogical as the other sex issue: female MPs. They agreed on a 50 per cent “quota” by 2025. A female delegate responded to a patronising male after the vote was taken:

ROBERT MACKLIN

dose of dorin

obdurate that the perilous sea journey remained an option. But all agreed that our current 14,000 quota was too low. Hard to argue with that.

ANOTHER low was reached at Edgbaston with a bewildering collapse twice over by the Australian batsmen in the Third Test. Everyone knows the English use a different ball that swings more and they have softer wickets that bounce less. Yet our young guns under captain Michael Clarke played like they were at the WACA. Time “Pup” folded his tent.

“Well,” she said, “I’m glad you’re glad we’ll get equality in another 10 years.” Fair cop.

THE tow-back-the-boats issue spilled over to the SBS series “Go Back Where You Came From” with predictable results – once exposed to the plight of real-life refugees, most of the hardliners changed their tune. Unfortunately, the pro-refugee folk stayed

BACK home our own young political gun, Labor’s Yvette Berry finally made a public ripple. Since her elevation to the ministry in January she’s been the Invisible Woman. Yet she’s not only the Minister for Community Services, but also Housing, Multicultural Affairs, Women, Assisting the Chief Minister on Social Inclusion and Equality and – wait for it – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs. So, did she break her silence with a slashing broadside supporting Adam Goodes? Nope. Instead, she declared gifts received in office including an $80 pearl jewellery box, a “pineapple yellow” ukulele, an “Introduction to Islamic Studies” and a two-kilogram bag of Saudi dates.

Fair dinkum…

robert@robertmacklin.com

Why we need the ‘nanny state’

THE concept of the “nanny state” is used by dominant elements in our community to make governments reluctant to interfere in a way that a bossy “nanny” would interfere with the child of an upper-class British family.

Only the wealthy have nannies. It is a concept that has come from them to avoid interference in their right to maintain their privileged status. For decades the term has been a favourite in tobacco-company campaigns against all forms of regulation of their industry. As government agendas become more and more conservative, extremist views find ways to push even further to the right. The deployment of “nanny state” rhetoric by the Institute of Public Affairs (IPA), a right-wing think tank, has been picked up by the Liberal Democratic Party’s one

As government agendas become more and more conservative, extremist views find ways to push even further to the right.

The “nanny state” concept is shallow, but has immediate appeal. It relies on the belief that freedom is being protected from interference. Whereas framing liberty as “freedom from domination” provides a much greater comprehension of the concept. With this understanding, governments not only have a role in protecting ordinary people from domination, they have a responsibility.

The very powerful don’t want government interference. They have a reason to be afraid of the “nanny state”. For ordinary people, the “nanny state” protects us from their domination, improves our health outcomes and ensures a more equitable society.

The “nanny state” is a term that was coined in 1965 by a British columnist writing in “The Spectator” magazine who went under the pseudonym “Quoodle”. It is a term usually used in a pejorative way to discourage governments from introducing legislation or regulation that might undermine the power or actions of industry or individuals. It is

invariably presented as an interference with the choices of ordinary people.

As chair of the Senate Economics References Committee, Senator Sam Dastyari is calling for submissions by August 24 to the inquiry into “Personal choice and community impacts”, which was initiated by his libertarian colleague Senator David Leyonhjelm. The committee will not report until the middle of next year in the shadow of a looming election?

There can be little doubt that Senator Leyonhjelm and the like-minded at the IPA will be vigorous in encouraging submissions to the inquiry. The IPA is already constantly using its “Freedom Watch” blog to attack a range of issues seeking a free and dominating hand for industry. Examples on the blog include plain packaging of tobacco, safer adventure playgrounds, restrictions to reduce the harm associated with alcohol, bicycle helmet laws, the junk food industry and e-cigarettes. Hopefully, there will be many pointing out the advantages of regulation.

The concept of liberty being conceived

as freedom from domination comes from ANU and Princeton academic Philip Pettit in his 1997 book “Republicanism: A Theory of Freedom and Government”. Pettit argues the concept comes from the founding fathers of the American Revolution. The concept has been bastardised by industrial leaders who want no interference in the way they accumulate capital and wealth.

The “nanny state” has delivered a healthier Australia. Our longevity is amongst the top two or three in the world. We have clean water and sanitation. “Nanny state” legislation on seat belts, speed limits, drink-driving and safer vehicles means the road trauma and death rate are now akin to the same numbers as the 1930s (and this is not on a per capita or per vehicle rate).

“Nanny” governments have been responsible for vaccines, educating the masses, supporting the homeless and providing universal health care. There are countless more examples where we live in a safer, more civilised society because of regulation around electricity and other trades, food safety, financial management, social services and infectious disease regulation to name just a few.

As a last word, there is an irony in “Quoodle” coining this term. In 1954, as British Health Minister, Iain Macleod, smoked through a press conference on the dangers of smoking. He died of a heart attack at age 57.

Clubs seek your vote

CLUBSACT

The

the 2015 ClubsACT Community & Service Awards to be awarded in October. Voting closes on September 30.

And as an incentive to vote, one lucky participant will win a trip for two to Hamilton Island, valued at $4400, with five nights’ accommodation at the Reef View Hotel, including breakfast, transfers and economy airfares.

Voting can be made directly through some clubs, online at yourcanberraclubs.com.au or by a “LIKE” of a participating club’s Facebook profile picture image.

ClubsACT CEO Jeff House says the People’s Choice Awards were about giving the community members and non-members the opportunity to recognise what particular clubs mean to them.

“With over 200,000 Canberrans being members of clubs we anticipate this award will be hotly contested and why it is so important that people make their vote count,” says Jeff.

“The competition is also not just open to club members but all Canberrans and it is the local community’s opportunity to recognise the great work that clubs do.”

More information and details of how to vote, including terms and conditions, are at yourcanberraclubs.com.au

Lambert Parkhill Financial Group supporting ‘HOME in Queanbeyan’

Lambert Parkhill Financial Group Supporting ‘HOME in Queanbeyan’.

Lambert Parkhill Financial Group continued their support of the local community last month with staff and clients holding a successful race day at Thoroughbred Park.

The various activities during the day included fashions on the field, raffles and a tipping competition with proceeds donated to ‘HOME in Queanbeyan’.

HOME is a community initiative, providing accommodation and other services for men and women who have a mental illness who initially cannot live an independent life. The programs at HOME assist residents in building their selfesteem, giving confidence and preparing many to lead productive lives within their community.

Lambert Parkhill also support the hockey community, ACT Eden Monaro Cancer Support Group, and other various avenues of junior sport through sponsorship.

“Supporting the communities where we work has always been an important part of Lambert Parkhill”, said Ron Lambert, Managing Director.

“As a company we have strong support from local clientele and with the community sponsorship it cements our valuable ties to the community.”

Lambert Parkhill are known for their strong understanding of the needs and detailed planning for their clients in all aspects of financial planning.

They understand the needs of small business, self-employed, all employees from the public service and the private sector.

For 40 years they have been advising the Canberra region with evidence of their success being the trust existing clients have in Lambert Parkhill with most of their referrals from satisfied clients.

They pride themselves on finding the best outcome for their clients.

Being Financial Planners’ their expertise encompasses a broad range of services that include: Life, TPD, Trauma and Income Protection Insurances, Investments, Superannuation, Retirement Planning, and how to gain the best from a redundancy pay out and enforced retirement.

Lambert Parkhill Financial Group are your complete financial planning group for all residents of the Canberra and Queanbeyan area. For more information call: 02 6286 3340, email: client@lambertparkhill.com.au or visit our website: www.lambertparkhill.com.au

What’s with these thieving mongrels?

EVER had your car broken into? Do you know that empty, angry feeling when getting to your car in the morning to discover some mongrel has been inside it. It’s horrible. Here’s a massive generalisation, but thieves tend to smell bad, and you can often still smell them in the car. Bloody mongrels.

I’ve had my car broken into four or five times over the years. The worst was in Coffs Harbour. I can remember the horror of getting to my car on a Saturday morning to find three windows smashed.

Nothing was stolen and I have never understood why. How could the cost of replacing the windows possibly equal the joy that had come from smashing them late on a Friday night. What is wrong with these people?

ACT Police have apprehended a couple of alleged offenders in the suburbs in the last few weeks, which drew a collective round of applause from the city. The people who commit these crimes have no idea how much effect their actions have. We’ve talked a lot about this on my radio program of late. I was flooded with calls, SMS’s and emails from people who had

I can remember the horror of getting to my car on a Saturday morning to find three windows smashed.

been victims of robberies.

Many listeners were frustrated at what they believe is an inadequate justice system that fails to deter thieves of this nature.

Rachael’s car was broken into last month while parked at home: “It was frightening. My car is parked near my daughter’s window and I hate the thought that they were right outside.”

Stuart told me he was “gutted” after his car was broken into: “It’s the feeling of my space being violated. It’s got not much to do with the damage they did or the stuff they stole.”

Penny has had her car broken into, but much worse than that she was at the centre of an armed robbery. She was held up with a knife at her shop. The perpetrator was sent to jail for two years and seven months. He’s out and Penny finds herself panicking internally when people who fit a certain stereotype are in the shop.

As Penny put it, her sentence is longer than the robber’s.

Mark Parton is the breakfast announcer on 2CC.

High heels to hiking boots

Lorna Morris reports

CANBERRA lawyer Brodie Williams will swap high heels for hiking boots when she treks across the Simien Mountains for charity in October.

Brodie, who works as a solicitor in the intellectual property and technology section at DLA Piper in Kingston, will undertake the week-long challenge in Ethiopia in the company of 45 colleagues from around the world with the aim of collectively raising up to $390,000 for UNICEF.

The 28-year-old says: “When I heard about the challenge I couldn’t say no. I am a big traveller and love culture shocks and exploring new places. Africa is an incredible place, I have been before but I have always wanted to go into ‘true’ Africa. I am very active and I love fitness, it’s the ultimate challenge for a great cause.

“I will trek at high altitude and across tough terrain to reach the peak of Mt Bwahit which is 4450 metres above sea level.

“We are aiming to raise up to $390,000 all together for UNICEF, which will be used to support the rights of vulnerable children. More specifically, to provide legal support to children across the world that have become involved

with the law as a victim, offender or witness.”

In 2013, DLA Piper formed a global partnership with UNICEF and over the last few years, the firm has worked on pro bono matters around child marriage and human rights in India, Nepal and Bangladesh.

Brodie says: “We did a lot of research on child marriage in Bangladesh and found that the cultural laws, religion and traditional practices affect the statutory laws.

“More than 700 million women alive today were married before they were 18 and one in three were married before they were 15.

“The money we raise will go towards UNICEF’s Justice for Children program to help strengthen laws involving children in developing countries, to provide support for children who have been separated from their families, to ensure incarcerated children are treated humanely and to provide basic lawyer representation.”

No stranger to adventure, Brodie is relishing the opportunity to complete the challenge and has undergone a regimented training regime in preparation.

“I think it is very important for people like lawyers, who are in positions of power and have the opportunity to do things to help others, really should,” she said.

When the thrill is gone, only racism remains

BEING part of a large crowd baying for blood is immensely fun.

Doubt and anxiety disappear. We’re no longer scared little creatures in an uncaring universe and, suddenly, we feel powerful, part of something bigger than ourselves.

Similarly being part of an internet lynch mob is exhilarating. Even if the cause is tenuous at first, the camp followers keep dragging in more reasons to loathe the target of the hatred.

I’ve been part of both.

What I’ve never seen is the Adam Goodes abuse saga bursting out of the cliques of the AFL and into the wider consciousness as occurred last week.

The internet hate boards fuelled the baying crowds, the crowds fuelled the righteousness of the hate boards and the next thing we know Australia was looking terrifyingly like Germany of the 1930s.

Arguably the most moving photograph of the 20th century was August Landmesser refusing to give the Nazi salute in a large German crowd in 1936.

That’s a real hero. Looking at the hysteria everyone else is tumbling into and one person saying: “Nope, not me; I’m not having a piece of this”.

As the Adam Goodes saga

The internet hate boards fuelled the baying crowds, the crowds fuelled the righteousness of the hate boards and the next thing we know Australia was looking terrifyingly like Germany of the 1930s.

has unfolded sane Australians have at least not been as alone as that man was.

When Colin Barnett, the Liberal Premier of WA, is willing to call it out as racism to boo Adam Goodes by his own West Coast Eagles fans we can at least take comfort that a broad plurality of the sane citizens of this country are disgusted by this behaviour.

When the famously cautious AFL is willing to, if not call it racism, at least acknowledge there is an element of race involved, at the danger of alienating thousands of ticket-buying fans, one can begin to hope this country isn’t all that bad yet.

Because thousands of white people booing a football player for being indigenous is, let there be no doubt, unbelievably bad.

Forget any risk Islamic State poses to Australia. If our friends and allies paid enough attention to AFL to realise what was going on, this country would be facing an existential threat.

If we don’t get a grip on this garbage we could end

up like South Africa in the 1980s. The crucial difference being that South Africa at that time was not surrounded by rising powers. We need friends and allies now in ways they never did.

I like a good “boo” at the footy. When I think the officials have made a bad call, when I think I’ve seen cheating or foul play, it’s fun to get involved.

To boo a player for something he did months or years ago? For standing up to racist abuse or doing an indigenous dance in an “indigenous round”?

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Almost

The

wanting to

It wasn’t Australia’s best week. But if we take the right lessons from it some good may come.

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

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Staring down the pain of adversity

AS the old saying goes, you never quite know what’s around the corner. Sometimes it can be an opportunity; at other times it can be adversity, and that’s been the case for us lately and for some of our friends.

In our case, my journalist husband lost his job somewhat out of the blue. He’s been pretty successful, but that didn’t stop him from becoming one of many victims of media job shedding with a consequent plunge in our family income.

Another of our friends has encountered a similar fate thanks to the Federal Government’s continuing cutbacks. Other friends are suddenly dealing with even more serious problems – debilitating and serious illness, marriage break up as well as children and teenagers with major behavioural and psychological issues.

When things turn bad it’s easy to get lost in your own circumstances and think the sky has fallen in on you while the rest of the world is getting on with life. But the reality is we are all part of a bigger picture and even in a wealthy and prosperous community such as Canberra a lot of people are regularly doing it pretty tough.

Many of us are pretty stoic. We take these blows on the chin, batten down the hatches and try to ride out life’s storms.

There is a rush of adrenalin when you’re hit with something unexpected. After the immediate shock, I want to rush and suddenly make all sorts of changes in an effort to bring things back under control.

But as I’ve got older (and maybe learned something from life’s experience), I’ve come round to a slightly more measured approach to life’s crises.

Sometimes it’s best to make a cup of tea, sit down with a notepad and break everything down into a list of little jobs and decisions that you have to work your way through.

Calm and methodical can be hard to achieve, but it does work.

One of the challenges I’ve been dealing with lately is how to help my children through tough times.

I’ve learnt the hard way that trying to keep

I’ve learnt the hard way that trying to keep things from the kids is a big mistake. I swear they have built-in lie detectors...

things from the kids is a big mistake. I swear they have built-in lie detectors, are totally immune to attempts at distraction and are much better at reverse psychology than I will ever be.

So my approach has been to involve them fully in the process. In our case, this has involved telling them upfront about the big hit in revenue, talking about the savings required and the changes we need to make, and deciding as a family just what we’ll have to live without and what’s really important while we cut our cloth to meet our new circumstances.

One of the worst things for kids is uncertainty, not knowing what’s happening. Lots of discussion, planning and maintaining daily routines goes a long way to keep everyone on an even keel.

It’s also worth trying to keep things in perspective; there are certainly many worse things than one parent losing their job.

Support also comes from all sorts of quarters. My department was very helpful in immediately agreeing to let me shift back to full-time work. Friends have been hugely supportive.

Most importantly life keeps rolling on and a proactive approach helps. Already my husband has picked up some work with another newspaper. He isn’t earning a fraction of what he did, but things are looking modestly better.

As a great aunt of mine was inclined to say in times of trouble and strife, “all these things are passing”.

Glenn Keys speaks for Save

GLENN Keys (pictured), ACT Australian of the Year and president of the Canberra Business Chamber, will give the annual Save the Children address on behalf of the charity’s ACT council at Royal Canberra Golf Club, Yarralumla, on Tuesday, August 18. Mr Keys will talk about his company’s contribution to a “whole-of-community” effort in the humanitarian response to the West Africa Ebola Outbreak as well as other examples, such as indigenous healthcare support. Tickets at $65, plus booking fee, from trybooking. com or via bit.ly/1OMKEHf

Open day for science

GEOSCIENCE Australia will celebrate National Science Week with its annual open day offering a diverse program of free, hands-on activities, science displays and talks for all ages. The roving Erth dinosaur will also be back by popular demand. It’s at the corner of Jerrabomberra Avenue and Hindmarsh Drive, Symonston, 10am-3pm, Sunday, August 23.

Shorten talking

OPPOSITION leader Bill Shorten will address the ACT chapter of the Australia India Business Council on the ALP’s vision to maximise the bilateral relationship with India at a lunch at the Hyatt Hotel, noon, Tuesday, August 11. Tickets at $95 (members) and $115 from canberrabusiness.com/events

Not the right to die, it’s the right to live!

GREG Cornwell suggests (CN, July 16) there should be a referendum on the “right to die”. One thing I can assure him is that no referendum will prevent him or anyone else from dying. We all know that death is inevitable. What he and others are really advocating is the ability to decide when, where and how they die. In other words, they want to have total control. Perhaps they did not manage to achieve total control in other aspects of their life but, by golly, they will control their death.

In the US these people have been described by disability advocates as the “Four Ws” – white, well-off and the worried-well.

They are usually oblivious to the effect of their demands on the rest of society. However, the disability advocates are one group who can recognise the threat to their welfare and how they could be marginalised.

It is not only Greg’s fellow “oldies” or the disabled who will suffer if euthanasia and assisted suicide are introduced.

Both would sabotage the caring nature of the health professions. They could also give rise to feelings by the seriously ill that they are a “burden” on their fellow humans.

We are fortunate to have access to some of the best palliative care and supportive services in Australia, including the hospice at Clare Holland House and its wonderful volunteers.

There is really no distinction between promoting “assisted suicide” and promoting any form of suicide, whether by the elderly or the young.

Those who want to have assisted suicide and euthanasia available to themselves “just in case” and so they can be in total control of their death, are responsible for an overall reduction in society’s respect for life.

Greg’s fear is of an end-of-life situation that is “undignified, [in] often painful circumstances, immobile, incontinent, and unconsulted”.

Hasn’t he heard of palliative care?

It would also sabotage society’s efforts at suicide prevention. All states and territories recognise the suicide rate as something that needs to be reduced and all of them allocate taxpayers’ funds in trying to prevent suicide, particularly among the young.

The assisted suicide and euthanasia lobby in Australia promotes the use of a drug used in the veterinary industry to euthanase animals as their drug of choice. They want it to be available to them “just in case”.

We in Canberra are fortunate to have access to some of the best palliative care and supportive services in Australia, including the holistic support provided by the hospice at Clare Holland House and its wonderful volunteers.

No one is claiming that absolutely all pain will be controlled at the end of life, or that everyone will have a peaceful passing, but the “horror stories” about death that one often hears about most likely occurred in another era or in the absence of access to good end of life care.

SUNDAY ROAST

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.

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Between July 2000 and December 2012, 120 Australians (and probably many uncounted others) used this drug to kill themselves.

Twenty-six were under 40 years of age.

These “horror stories” should not be used as emotional blackmail to send Australia in the direction of Belgium and the Netherlands where, under their liberal euthanasia and assisted suicide laws, people can ask for and receive euthanasia just because they are depressed or tired of living.

Bev Cains is a former Family Team member of the pre-self government ACT House of Assembly (1979-86).

BEV CAINS

Growing old can be good news

all

a sea or tree change in retirement. An increasing number of people are deciding to stay put.

In fact, by 2023, 15 per cent of Canberra’s population will be over 65.

When we think of “growing older” we tend to focus on health and social care issues – but the built environment has a significant impact on the mobility, independence and quality of life experienced by older Canberrans.

Low-density living is not particularly age-friendly. Safe pedestrian networks, easy access to shops and services, a mix of housing options, nearby health centres and recreational facilities – these are all elements that can positively affect the ageing process and help Canberrans stay connected with their community.

And by looking at our city through the eyes of an older person,

we can make Canberra more accessible. Narrow, uneven or cracked pavements are potential hazards, as are cars parked haphazardly, pedestrian crossing lights that change too quickly and a lack of separate lanes for cyclists.

Urban areas and parks without rest areas can discourage seniors from getting around. Public facilities and shops located far away from where seniors live and without adequate transport can deter them from maintaining an active life in the community.

And retirement living options positioned only on a city’s fringes can leave older people with no choice but to remain in houses that are too big, but within the communities they know and love.

The growing number of older people in our society should not be a cause for alarm, but should be celebrated as a great social achievement. While some older people have significant care needs, many retired people possess a wealth of knowledge and experience, time and energy, as well as their own financial resources to contribute to building a better Canberra for everyone.

There’s a “Retirement Living” forum on Thursday, August 27. Register at propertyoz.com.au/act/ Catherine Carter is ACT executive director of the Property Council of Australia.

scene / around canberra

“STRONGER than Fiction”, the Canberra documentary film festival, has grown because of good local support and a commitment by co-producers Simon Weaving and Deb Kingsland to seek and obtain extraordinary stories that prove that the truth, the unusual, the confronting, the energetic and the magical are stronger than any fiction.

And in the hands of talented and astute documentary creatives, the results are a pleasant departure from the current comic book and computer-generated fantasies that meld into a mishmash of sameness.

Opening night and we were off to the Himalayas for “Sherpa” directed by Canberra filmmaker Jennifer Peedom Sherpas are essential to the climbers, delivering everything that makes for a camping and climbing experience that has gone up quite a few notches since Hillary and Tensing conquered Everest. Peedom fortuitously found herself filming slap-bang in the middle of a sherpa dispute after an avalanche killed 16 sherpas on the infamous Khumbu Icefall. The change in the relationship of these mild-mannered, deeply religious and respectful sherpas to the foreign climbers and their sense of entitlement is the stuff of a balanced and confronting story well told.

The conquest of Everest is a trophy for foreigners, for Sherpas it is hard work as their “beasts of burden”.

Specialist

Medical, Physical and Psychological Services

Dr Geoffrey Speldewinde and Dr Keith T Chan, specialist pain and rehabilitation physicians, along with our multidisciplinary team provide the highest level of service for:

• Chronic persistent pain

• Rehabilitation – reconditioning after injury, surgery and neurological conditions

• Medical Pain and Rehabilitation Procedures such as blocks, neurotomy, discography, stimulators, Botulinum toxin injections all to the highest International Standards

• Diagnostic and therapeutic injections seen rapidly with GP referral

Take advantage of our experienced multidisciplinary team for all your needs with no referral required for:

• Physiotherapy

• Exercise Therapy

• Hydrotherapy

• Gym

• Acupuncture and Massage

• Dru Yoga

• Pain Education

• Psychology, Counselling and Hypnotherapy

• Diet and Nutrition

• Mindfulness Course

• STEPS one day pain management Workshop

Free parking available

At the Canberräng’s ‘Mayor’s Ball’, Albert Hall At the Brumby Ball, AIS Arena, Bruce

Canberra Confidential

Cartoonist pulls no punches

WHAT to do with a pair of boxer Mike Tyson’s jeans? That was the creative challenge “CityNews” cartoonist Paul Dorin faced recently as he picked his assignment for this year’s Jeans 4 Genes.

Paul has painted 23 pairs of celebrity jeans for the Children’s Medical Research Institute over two decades and the choice was his to select from celebs such as James Franco, Robert Duvall, Henry Winkler, William Shatner and Chris Pine

“My wife was really keen to have Chris Pine’s jeans in the house, but we couldn’t go past knowing l would have fun painting the jeans of world champion boxers Mike Tyson with the bonus of having Evander Holyfield signing them as well,” he says.

“Ritually, when l first receive the jeans l get excited with a gazillion of creative ideas and I am always curious and hold the jeans up to myself for a comparison to their height and size.

“I sit on the jeans for about three weeks scribbling ideas down on paper. “I spent about a week painting and cut the jeans down and used them for Tyson’s boxer shorts. I couldn’t get away from the idea of including something about the infamously referred ear-biting incident ‘The Bite Fight’. l will admit to doing a boxing dance around the easel a few times.

“I kept it pretty tame and included a set of chatter teeth on Iron Mike’s denim boxing shorts and a slight bite from Holyfield’s ear. At last year’s gala auction Paul’s

painting of Jonah Hill’s jeans sold for $9000, the third highest bid on the night.

The Jeans 4 Genes Gala Dinner will be held in Sydney on August 22.

Check those TransACT bills

MORE woes from the TransACT accounting upgrade:

1. “The invoice from TransACT, which claims I owe $800 but in fact, if you add it down, it is only about $15. When I rang, it was explained that it had to do with an amount they wrote off in 2009, which they seem to be trying to recover!” writes an astonished inner-south business owner.

“I hope the rest of their customers are checking their bills very thoroughly. This standard is just not acceptable.”

2. “Here’s a quick reminder about your invoice from TransACT”, writes Mat Conn, GM customer service, in an automated email to a loyal client whose account was still days from being due.

“They are sending me a reminder to pay a bill that isn’t due until Thursday and which I rang up and queried last Friday! This is nuts,” she harrumphs

Just in time

KIRSTEN Paisley, from the Shepparton Art Museum, was announced as deputy director of the National Gallery of Australia on June 29. But it took the gallery a month – until July 29 – to include the news of such a senior appointment on its own website, a heartbeat ahead of her starting date on August 10.

SORE FEET?

We can help with:

• Diabetic foot care

• Corns, callus & warts

• Ingrown toenails

• Common skin conditions

• Posture & gait analysis

• Paediatric foot care

• Foot, lower limb & back pain

• Range of comfort & orthotic fitting shoes available

•

laser treatment for fungal toenails

An aptitude for altitude

ALTITUDE addict Rick Agnew, he of mountaineering fame, has piloted his glider to great heights recently via winds producing a phenomenon known as an atmospheric wave.

On a cold Saturday last month, the conditions allowed him to record the highest height gain for several years reaching well over 24,500ft, travelling from Bunyan (the near-Cooma home airfield of the Canberra Gliding Club), to Bredbo, Adaminaby and the Snowy Mountains, near to Perisher and Jindabyne, and back

to Bunyan, via Cooma. Rick says the atmospheric waves allow glider pilots to extend flights to potential heights above passing jet airliners and to travel considerable distances without engines. Rick, best known as the first Canberran to achieve the famed Seven Summits status (climbing every mountain of the world’s seven continents, including Mt Everest), is the Australian glider altitude record holder at 33,000ft set in 1995 and has set the annual record 16 times over the last 19 years.

The team at Canberra Podiatry is delighted to introduce our new EMS Swiss DolorClast –the latest in technology for radial shock wave therapy.

Effective for a range of soft tissue conditions and injuries, pneumatically generated shockwaves are transmitted into the area of pain to provide relief and promote healing to ensure a quick recovery.

Some of most common conditions we treat include, but are not limited to: plantar fasciitis (heel spur/pain), arch pain, Achilles tendonitis, lower limb and foot cramping, shin splints and patellofemoral syndrome (runners knee).

The surprises and services of fascinating, central Phillip

THE suburb of Phillip is named after Arthur Phillip, the first Governor of NSW. As the commercial and geographical centre of Woden, Phillip contains many of the district’s key facilities and has its own commercial area located along Botany, Townshend and Parramatta Streets, including Colbee Court, Dundas Court and Altree Court.

Celebrating in the Lebanese tradition

A VISIT to Petra Palace Restaurant is a celebration with family and friends rich in Lebanese tradition.

Using fresh ingredients and fragrant spices, the experienced chef creates memorable dishes from the ever expanding menu.

Owner Tareq Alnaser says: “Our chef has over 20 years of experience cooking Lebanese food and our large menu has so much variety but still only a small percentage of what Lebanese food can offer.

“Lebanese food is becoming more popular in the Canberra region, people have heard of it but a lot of the time they have never tried it. The first time they try it, they love it.

“The food is very tasty and looks bright on the plate. One of our most popular dishes is the kibbeh nayyeh, which is minced raw lamb or beef mixed with spices. The traditional Lebanese drink arak is popular and people can drink that with any meal.”

Petra Palace Restaurant has a function room suitable for a variety of private and corporate functions as well as special occasions.

Local bakery with a taste for good health

MORE than just a bakery, Deeks Health Foods is dedicated to providing tasty, nutritious, gluten and grain-free food to help people live a healthier lifestyle and to improve athletic performance.

With a head office at Colbee Court, a production bakery at Fyshwick and a retail store in Pearce, Deeks Health Foods supplies products to supermarkets and food services across Canberra as well as interstate. Seeing the benefits of a gluten and grain-free diet, owners Robert de Castella, a former world champion marathon runner, and Bill Giles, an experienced clinical biologist, wanted to make the diet more accessible for people to make the transition.

Robert says: “There just weren’t any alternatives to grain-based products and foods, so it was difficult for people to live that lifestyle.

“Eating grain-free foods removes the risk of cellular inflammation in the body which could otherwise lead to health problems such as arthritis, heart problems, gut problems and research has shown links to dementia.

Tareq says: “We also have light entertainment on a Saturday night from 8pm, a belly dancer will be at the restaurant. It is a change for people who want something different from their dining experience.

“Hospitality has been the most important thing since we opened. All of our customers come back for more, everyone is happy.”

Petra Palace Restaurant, 51 Colbee Court. Call 6281 3009 or 0488 448922, visit petrapalace.com.au

“We drive our business from our head office in Phillip, always pushing to drive the next food revolution of grain-free food.”

The Deeks Health Foods retail store in Pearce offers a full range of grain-free products from breads, pies, quiches, pizza bases and biscuits to cakes, muffins, pastas and flour.

“The main ingredient in our food is quinoa, which is a wonderful source of nutrients,” says Robert.

“Initially Deeks catered for people with autoimmune diseases like coeliac disease, but has since evolved from solely a provider of food for just coeliacs and the gluten intolerant. More and more of our customers don’t have health issues, they just want more from their lives.”

Deeks Health Foods, Pearce Shops, Hodgson Crescent, Pearce. Call 1300 362112 or visit deeks.com.au. Head office enquiries to info@deeks.com.au and wholesale enquiries to mailorders@deeks.com.au

PETRA PALACE Lebanese

Taking the stress out of legal matters

CAPON and Hubert “cares about what people go through when dealing with legal issues and the emotional strain it can cause,” says financial director Rhonda Hubert.

Committed to providing up-to-date, effective and professional advice, the experienced team at Capon and Hubert provides services in family matters, children’s matters, mediation, dispute resolution, commercial and criminal law, wills and estate planning, conveyancing and more.

“We understand that being involved in legal affairs when you are not trained in them is stressful, so we look after our clients,” says Rhonda.

With 32 years’ experience as a lawyer, legal director Ken Hubert is an accredited family dispute resolution provider and mediator.

He says: “We are a general practice and have qualified staff who deal with matters to do with property, sales and purchases, estates, family work and general legal work.

“With regards to family work, what matters as much

as the outcome is the way in which it’s done. We try to keep people out of litigated options as much as possible through mediation, negotiation, a roundtable conference or collaboration.

“What a client wants is just as important as their legal rights and entitlements. We aim to make better ways to resolve disputes without going to court, which can cost money and tends to be a long, drawn out process.”

Capon & Hubert, 32-38 Townshend Street. Call 6290 1105 or visit chsol.com.au

In search of a great night’s sleep?

THE Sleep and Lifestyle Clinic is a “home-based approach to sleep apnea assessment and treatment,” says director, Dr Grant Wilson.

Dedicated to providing rapid home-based sleep studies, advice from health professionals and timely treatment, the Sleep and Lifestyle Clinic works towards matching a wide range of solutions to the patient’s situation including weight loss, splints, Provent therapy along with CPAP acclimatisation and review.

“Around 20,000 people in the Canberra region are affected by sleep apnea,” says Grant, who has 15 years’

experience in sleep medicine and is also a registered physiotherapist.

“From a medical perspective, sleep apnea is common but is also quite a serious problem. It is when normal nighttime breathing becomes disrupted or irregular resulting in adverse health effects.

“Symptoms can be regular snoring, daytime tiredness, poor concentration and gasping or choking at night. It can also cause high blood pressure, heart disease and strokes.”

Through a referral system, the health professionals at the Sleep and Lifestyle Clinic provide education and support to assist patients with CPAP Therapy (continuous positive airways pressure).

Grant says: “Our main service is doing home sleep studies for sleep apnea. Rather than spend a night hooked up to wires in a sleep clinic, our patients take home monitoring equipment that is just as valid as other tests.

“The patient wears a mask at night, which is easy to use and more convenient. It makes a huge difference to people’s lives, they find that they sleep much better and feel rested the next day.”

The Sleep and Lifestyle Clinic, 61 Dundas Court. Call 6162 1802 or visit sleepandlifestyle.com

The centre of sewing heaven

ORIGINALLY the Bernina Sewing Centre and then Stitches of Canberra, the re-named Canberra Sewing has, for nearly 50 years, provided customers with a full range of services and support for new and experienced sewers.

Stocking an extensive range of quality sewing machines, overlockers, embroidery machines and digitising software, Canberra Sewing also offers a large range of embroidery threads, fabrics and a fully stocked haberdashery.

Peter Springer, who has owned the store since 1993, says: “We are a traditional sewing-machine shop that services and repairs all brands of domestic and industrial sewing machines.

“We offer beautiful computerised sewing and embroidery machines.”

Canberra Sewing Centre offers unlimited, free lessons with every machine and overlocker purchase.

Canberra Sewing, 26 Colbee Court. Call 6281 7555 or visit canberrasewing.com.au. Email enquiries@canberrasewing.com.au

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Conservation store that preserves the past

PROVIDING qualified professional heritage conservation for art, artefacts and antiques, Endangered Heritage is a unique business that also offers conservation services to help preserve family memorabilia, cultural heritage and sentimental items.

Endangered Heritage specialises in textiles, paper and object conservation from photographs and tapestries to indigenous artefacts and ceramics and actively participates in specialist societies and government institutions across Canberra by running workshops and seminars.

Retail manager, Susan Hobbs, says: “We also stock a wide range of materials and products to help individuals look after their own family history.

“Custodians of heirlooms and heritage items can come into the store and our knowledgeable staff and conservators can provide professional advice.

“Customers are able to purchase the same archivalquality supplies that are used in national and private institutions across Australia and the world. “We provide products and advice so customers are able to preserve and maintain their heirlooms and artwork within their own home.”

Customers at Endangered Heritage range from government institutions, private collectors, family custodians, specialist artists and people who are seeking to recover their damaged possessions after a

disaster, such as a flood or fire.

“Our ever expanding range of tools and products are suitable for those people of specialised interests, for example, bookbinders, woodworkers, calligraphers and artists. A unique feature of our retail service is the individualised artisan gift baskets.”

Endangered Heritage, Shop 3/17 Dundas Court. Call 6162 0073 or visit endangeredheritage.com

Pet needs with quality service

FOR more than 30 years, Powell’s Stockfeeds has provided the Canberra community with quality customer service to suit all pet needs.

The Colbee Court store provides pet products, aquariums and supplies, veterinary supplies and supplements, as well as stockfeeds, fertilisers and fencing materials. Owner, Simon Edwards, says: “We are a family-run business with a focus on quality customer service that you don’t get elsewhere.

“Our knowledgeable staff are very experienced and can provide advice and information on the wide range of products we supply, as well as animal care.

“From pet bedding, dog and cat food, to supplies for horses, poultry and fish, we serve pet and veterinary supplements as well as fertilisers and fencing materials.

“We understand your needs and work on that to fulfil it. Our prices are competitive and we cater to everyone. We are known for our friendly service, so do not hesitate to contact us.”

Open from Monday to Saturday, Powell’s Stockfeeds also offers appointments and consultations to provide expert advice.

A free delivery service is available for southside Canberra residents.

Powell’s Stockfeeds, 42-44 Colbee Court. Call 6282 4937.

From Amsterdam to Paris

MARGARET Hadfield, Canberra’s resident artist for the past 25 years, is now looking for people to join her “Artist and the Historian” tour from Amsterdam to Paris next year.

Accompanied by military historian Dr Kathryn Spurling, Margaret is offering people the chance to join the fully-escorted, 15-day art and military history tour on May 12.

Margaret says: “There will be opportunities for plein air painting if wanted, as well as walking and exploring in a relaxed tour experience.

“Kathryn will offer presentations on World War I and World War II with special interest in Bomber Command and I will be on hand for assistance, mentoring and teaching if required, offering my own insight into the creative exploration of art and history.

“The tour will visit some out-of-the-way galleries such as Kroller Mueller Museum near Arnhem in the Netherlands and the beautiful island of Terschelling, which is a great first stop where traditional buildings and culture has been preserved.

“We will travel through to Holland and Ypres Belgium, the Somme, across to Normandy beaches including Omaha beach, we will then visit Mont St Michel and Monet’s garden.”

In Phillip, Margaret provides art classes and showcases her own work at her gallery. She offers aspiring artists the opportunity to exhibit their work at the newly opened Artistic Vision Gallery.

Interested tourists should visit Zeppelin Travel at zt.com.au or email info@zt.com.au

Margaret Hadfield, 53 Colbee Court. Call 6282 3886 or visit hadfieldgallery.com

Artistic Vision Gallery, 61 Colbee Court. Visit facebook.com/artisticvisiongallery

Endangered Heritage supplies archival quality boxing, document files and albums, tools and paper for family custodians, collectors and businesses. We offer professional and supportive advice on personal conservation projects covering textiles, paper and objects. That’s peace of mind that your family’s history is safe for future generations.

Endangered Heritage supports local guilds and societies through information talks, sponsorship, display opportunities and workshops. We source and supply a growing range of specialty artisan products and tools that normally can’t be brought in individual use quantities.

For friends and family of such artists we can put together gift baskets or certificates focused on a specific craft.

Endangered Heritage also provides services such as heritage & art collection management support, pest management and disaster support.

• Archival boxing, filing, albums and paper

• Specialty conservation tools and products

• Specialty artisan small hand tools and supplies

• Historic artisan pigments and ingredients

• Special interest gift

•

• Best Quality Products For Your Pets

• Aquariums & Supplies

• Veterinary Supplies & Supplements

• Stock feeds, Fertilizers, Fencing Materials

• Pet Supplies & Supplements

Striving to provide excellent service and the best quality products for you and your pet

We serve pet and veterinary supplements.

We also provide fertilisers and fencing materials. We understand your needs and work on that to fulfil it. We are known for our friendly customer service. We are available by appointment and also offer consultations.

Open: Monday to Friday 8:30am-5:30pm, Saturday 8:30am-3:00pm

Please feel free to contact us on 02 6282 4937 42-44 Colbee Court, Phillip ACT

Don’t let the winter blues knock you over

Boost your vitality, energy and performance by switching now to Deeks! Delicious grain free goodness for everybody.

Pearce Shops Hodgson Cres Pearce Ph: 6162 0149 www.deeks.com.au info@deeks.com.au

Passionate audio experts offering sound advice

“SOUND is our business,” says Duratone Hi-Fi owner Fay Dunn. For more than 40 years, Duratone has covered audio interests from classical on vinyl to streaming the latest electronica around the house and its staff are passionate sound enthusiasts whose experience and knowledge is extensive.

Fay Dunn says: “Duratone caters for enthusiasts as well as those just beginning to discover the wonderful world of recorded music. “Customers have the chance to request an appointment to audition specific speakers, amplifiers and other components if desired.

“Staff will take time to establish customers’ needs and preferences and find a system that makes their music come to life again, making it impossible to go back to the two dimensional sound of stock earbuds or computer speakers.

“Duratone has several experienced technicians on staff who have been repairing quality audio equipment for decades. Precision setup of turntables is a speciality, and a requirement for getting the best out of your records.

“Visit duratone.com.au to see the current range of items on special or drop into the shop to see and hear fine equipment from around the world.”

Duratone Hi-FI, corner of Altree Court and Botany Street, call 6282 1333 or visit duratone.com.au

Train without fear of pain

THE qualified team at Jigsaw Body Mechanics focuses on providing suitable rehabilitation exercise programs for people with long-term or chronic conditions and injuries with the aim to help “put the pieces back together”.

Jigsaw Body Mechanics offers physiotherapy program progression, pre and post-surgical exercise programming, chronic pain exercise programming and condition training as well as remedial massage, personal training, a functional fitness program, cardiac recovery program and more.

SOUND IS OUR BUSINESS

Our staff have the experience and enthusiasm to assist music lovers choose the best system for their needs.

Owner Paul Campbell says: “We help people who feel like they may be too afraid to exercise due to pain or inability. We educate them on different ways that they can train while being injured, it is pain-free exercise that anyone can do regardless of the level of pain or mobility. There is something for everyone.”

With a Pilates instructor, personal trainer, exercise physiologist and an osteopath, the knowledgeable team at Jigsaw Body Mechanics is on hand to assist with the client’s every need.

The fitness business also has a strong referral system in place with GPs, physiotherapists, chiropractors, dentists and a growing number of allied health professionals.

Jigsaw Body Mechanics, level 1, 67 Townshend Street. Call 6282 7891 or 0439 408881. Visit jigsawbodymechanics.com.au, enquiries to paulc005@yahoo.com

Green clean clothes

CANBERRA Eco-Clean offers green cleaning for clothes, as well as a commercial laundry service and linen hire.

Operating since 2001, Canberra Eco-Clean uses wet cleaning, which is an environmentally friendly method of cleaning clothes with a special washer and dryer that isn’t damaging to the environment.

Owner, Peter Priest, says: “We use special biodegradable cleaning agents designed specifically for wet cleaning and the detergents are PH neutral so they can be disposed of through the sewage system.

“Wet cleaning is good for people who have allergies, there is no trace of any chemicals and it is biodegradable.”

Canberra Eco-Clean also provides an ironing service and a commercial laundry service with clients ranging from restaurants, day spas, and beauty salons to hairdressers and clubs.

Linen hire is also available, providing table linen, aprons, tea towels, glass cloths as well as offering the chance to clean, press and return the customer’s own linen.

“We are a one-stop-shop for all your laundry needs,” says Peter.

Canberra Eco-Clean, 65 Dundas Court. Call 6281 6317 or visit canberraecoclean.com.au

Jigsaw Body Mechanics offer individualised plans for post-surgery and post-physiotherapy. We specialise in exercise programs for chronic health issues, delivered by our Exercise Physiologist, Remedial Massage Therapist and Personal Trainers.

www.jigsawbodymechanics.com.au Call us on 6282 7891 or 0439 408 881

Come and see us at unit 10, Level 1, 67 Townshend St Phillip

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Team dedicated to tailored rehabilitation

NEUROSPACE aims to provide a comprehensive rehabilitation service for people with complex movement problems in order to improve well-being for a better future.

With a focus on teamwork, the qualified staff use focused movement training, tailored equipment and environment modification to support clients to achieve their goals.

With physiotherapists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, massage therapists, exercise physiologists and therapy assistants, Neurospace offers a range of programs that provide personally tailored treatment.

APA-titled neurological physiotherapist, Deborah Carrera, says: “We work with people from ages eight to 89, sorting out issues from the feet and up.

“I have 30 years’ experience as a physiotherapist working with neurological and complex rehabilitation clients. Here at Neurospace we assist people with movement problems due to damage to the nervous or sensory systems.

“We help people who have had a stroke, a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury as well as people with dizziness, Parkinson’s disease and muscular dystrophies.”

Established in 2008, Neurospace has grown over the years, from focusing on physiotherapy to branching out into different services and therapies.

Deborah says: “We don’t just find a solution to the initial problem, we look into the other underlying

problems a person may have and figure out why they are in pain.

“Clients enjoy our teamwork approach because they know they will receive focused and specialised attention. We aim to improve the well-being of our clients and their future.”

Neurospace, 10-12 Colbee Court. Call 6162 0450 or visit neurospace.com.au Enquiries at reception@neurospace.com.au

Teaching the important skills of road safety

AVAILABLE to all ACT residents with a driver’s licence, the Road Ready Centre offers a variety of programs to teach drivers the importance of safety on the roads.

Committed to making a positive difference to the community, the “Road Ready Plus” or “P…off” course has been designed to support new drivers through a critical period in their driving.

CEO Steve Lake says: “The ‘P...off’

course is voluntary for people aged 17 to 25 who have been on their P-plates for six months.

“The first six months of driving are the most dangerous and there is a high rate of crashes due to inexperience, the course is designed for the drivers to reflect on their driving and to see where they can improve to be safer on the road.”

The five-hour course involves small groups of new drivers

• Beautiful embroidery threads and fabrics

• Fully stocked haberdashery

• We sell

participating in a classroom-based workshop and discussion. Upon successful completion, the participants will be able to remove their P-plates.

Steve says: “Before the course, we ask the drivers to think of something that they need to improve, we then teach them awareness of risks, techniques to apply to make them safer drivers and hope they make a commitment to improve.

“Taught by qualified facilitators, it is an interactive program that is a lot of fun and we make sure the participants don’t get bored.

“We encourage parents to get their children involved to learn about road safety, it is a positive thing that can help them in the future as well as help the community.”

Road Ready Centre, 72 Townshend Street. Call 6282 8990 or visit getroadready.com.au

Sewing Classes

arts & entertainment

Art darling with the street at his feet

By Helen Musa

AARWUN Gallery in Gold Creek is famous for its eclectic mix of paintings, glass and jewellery works, but not street art.

Now owner Bob Stephens is making a determined leap into the 21st century with an exhibition called “Bricks to Canvas” in recognition of eight young Australian artists that, he says, have made “the quantum leap” from street art to internationally recognised painting.

Works on show include paintings by Kamilaroi artist Reko Rennie, who’s showing at this year’s Venice Biennale, by Banksy collaborator Anthony Lister and by Mark Whalen, Jackson Slattery, Vexta, Ghost Patrol and Sean Whalen.

Foremost is our very own success story, Belconnen-raised stencil artist Luke Cornish, “E.L.K.”, who became a finalist in the 2012 Archibald Prize with his portrait of Father Bob Maguire.

I caught up with Cornish by phone to his Marrickville studio in Sydney recently, where he was busy

working on a giant stencil cityscape of Kowloon, part of his current interest in urban landscapes. For with over 200 colours in the painting, inspired by trips over the past two years that have taken him to around 20 countries, he needs all that colour and painstaking cutting and layering of components to capture the complexities of over population.

He’ll be at Aarwun on August 8 and is looking forward to being back home – besides, his mum lives at Murrumbateman, not far from Gold Creek.

Cornish’s rise to fame has been spectacular. Already well-known in the Canberra arts community for his stencilled work, some based on photographs by former “CityNews” photographer Silas Brown, he catapulted on to the national scene when his portrait of Father Bob was shortlisted, making for what he calls “a completely different transition from street to contemporary art”. He found himself the darling of the Melbourne and Sydney art worlds and got a top agent, who kept him away from undesirable commissions.

From the shy, reclusive artist of his Canberra days, he became a

confident and articulate spokesman for artists, though he has also learnt diplomacy; a Sydney hotel approached ELK with the idea that he could produce 150 separate works (he told me it takes three to

JOAN BAEZ

four weeks for him to complete one work) saying they didn’t have very much money to offer him, but that it would be “very good exposure”.

Cornish found he needed to move on artistically, so with the help of

review

the 2014 Churchill Fellowship and his own funding, he travelled the world, took “a stack of photos”, and began working on streetscapes. In troubled zones such as Beirut and Tripoli he visited Palestinian refugee camps and found it all “exciting but confronting – I’m not in a huge hurry to go back”.

Back in his studio, he’s returning to the basis of his art and thinks he might spend the rest of the year on his huge Kowloon work.

“I’m kind of obsessed with stencil,” he tells “CityNews”. “And anyway, you can never perfect a craft.”

In the show at Aarwun, he’ll exhibit smaller works that he’s stencilled on to the back of glass and larger works based on people that he met on his travels – “an exploration of humanity.”

As for fortune and fame, he says: “Popularity is nice, but it doesn’t last for long, it’s an illusion that you can make it as an artist – you never really make it.”

“Bricks to Canvas,” at Aarwun Gallery, Gold Creek, until the end of August. All welcome to opening, 2pm, on Saturday, August 8.

Young cast carries ‘Grease’

“GREASE” is a nostalgic fairytale, but it’s amusing to think that in these politically correct times we all happily flock to a musical in which a nicely-mannered, pretty girl learns that she has to look and act like a leather-clad tart to keep her oaf-of-a-boyfriend’s interest.

musical theatre

“Grease”

Directed by Stephen Pike, At The Q Theatre, Queanbeyan, until August 15. Reviewed by Len Power

How to manage a disaster, or not

By Helen Musa

NATIONAL Science Week is almost upon us, but although it’s celebrating the International Year of Light, it looks set to be overshadowed when Canberra science-theatre company, Boho Interactive, stages its “Best Festival Ever: how to manage a disaster,” billed as “a three-day camping festival”.

In case you suspect they’re making it up as they go along, nothing could be further from the truth, with director and science theatre whizkid, David Finnigan, having already staged the event at the London Science Museum last year. This will be its Australian premiere.

“Best Festival Ever” was developed in 2011-13 through residencies at the University College London Environment Institute, the Battersea Arts Centre and Arts House Melbourne and is seen by the creators as “a fun theatre disguise for looking at the science of complex systems”.

In recent years Canberra audiences have been willing guinea pigs as Finnigan and his co-conspirators have played with game theory, investigated the potential of smart phones in performance, subjected us to character-building psychological experiments and allowed us to make up the endings, giving new meaning to the word “play”.

Compared to the original, much grittier version, stage productions of “Grease” these days are more like the blander, sugar-coated but enjoyable movie version of 1978.

Rosanna Boyd was excellent as Sandy as was Vanessa de Jager as Rizzo. Marcus Hurley as Danny gave a strong performance in the first act but seemed less energetic in the second. There were also great cameo moments from Jonathan Garland, Dave Collins, Hayden Crossweiller, Liam Downing and each of the Pink Ladies.

The set for the show and the projections were unimaginative and a disappointment. There was so little detail it seemed more like a

concert version of the show. Jordan

Kelly’s choreography was certainly energetic but often had nothing to do with the intention of particular scenes and it all looked the same after a while.

Costumes by Anna Senior were colourful and attractive with great attention to detail. The singing was confident and the band, conducted by Jenny Tabur, sounded excellent. Sound balance was occasionally uneven, making it hard to hear some lyrics clearly.

Stephen Pike’s show has an appealing freshness due mostly to the enthusiastic young cast. It just needed some better production values to make it a great one.

Part theatre show, part performance lecture, part board game, the hyperbolically-named festival aims to introduce us to concepts drawn from “systems science”, asking how we can best understand and manage the complex systems we live in.

Finnigan and Boho’s David Shaw, joined by Nathan Harrison, Nikki Kennedy and Rachel Roberts from Sydney collective Applespiel, intend putting up to 30 audience members into Street 2 and letting them have charge of programming and managing a hypothetical music festival.

They’ll also be giving the audience the chance to discuss the experience with real scientists, Will Steffen, from the Climate Council; Bob Costanza, from ANU; Brian Walker, Nicky Grigg and John Finnigan, from CSIRO and Eleanor Malbon, from RegNet – the cast of boffins will vary each night.

“Best Festival Ever: how to manage a disaster”, Street 2, August 12-22, bookings to thestreet.org.au or 6247 1223.

arts & entertainment

Troy takes the ‘Freedom Ride’ of his life

By Helen Musa

“ON a blazing summer’s day/ Charlie Perkins led the way,”

Troy Cassar-Daley and Paul Kelly sing as they describe the 1965 Freedom Ride passing through Moree, NSW, where Aborigines were banned from using the local swimming pool.

I’m talking to Cassar-Daley by phone from Brisbane, where he now lives. It’s well known that he and his family spent a few formative years in Nashville, Tennessee, but as he says, “this is home”.

The Freedom Ride lives strongly in Cassar-Daley’s imagination. As a child with an Aboriginal mother who took him to live in Grafton, the actual ride had come years before he was born in 1969, but it was still important.”

“As a seven-year old I did a school project on the Freedom Ride,” he tells “CityNews”. In the course of which he found, “back in 1965 my nan and pop couldn’t vote… as an indigenous Australian, you live as you can so they didn’t talk about it much.”

Now Cassar-Daley has his chance to sing out about 12 uniquely Australian stories, and it tickles him that when he sings the title song, “Freedom Ride”, a lot of non-indigenous Australians say: “I didn’t know that.”

So they could experience what they were singing about, he and his collaborator on that song, Paul Kelly, joined the bus for the commemorative 2015 Freedom Ride, which included seven or eight of the original Freedom Riders. Former NSW Chief Justice and chairman of the ABC Jim Spigelman was also on board.

“They believed in what we believe,”

Cassar-Daley says, noting that when the ragbag of student-activists headed bush on the bus, they weren’t expecting the confrontations they got with the locals at the Moree pool.

“People didn’t have equality in the bush then,” he says.

But times have changed.

“The drought has brought a lot of people together at an amazing level, saying to each other, ‘we’ve got to pull through this’,” he says.

At first he toyed with the idea of a 10-minute Bob Dylanesque number, but Kelly, whom Troy describes as “like a good panel beater who can straighten your song out”, advised a 3½-minute format.

Cassar-Daley says the whole album was a collaborative effort, although he was the main creative.

“I wanted to tell the important stories, to paint the Australian landscape as it is now,” he says.

One of those important stories, reflected in “Two Weeks On, Two Weeks Off,” is to do with the young FIFO workers, part of the

(Soprano)

mining industry, many of whom suffer from depression.

Imagine, says family man Cassar-Daley, “they come home and they’re getting under their wives’ feet… imagine the frustration.”

Then he had a bright idea and came up with another collaboration – this time with Jimmy Barnes. He’d been a fan of Cold Chisel since he was a kid and felt that since his FIFO anthem was about blue-collar workers, it needed a bit more “shtick”. Who better than the gravelly-voiced Barnsey to give it edge as he sings: “I’ll see my kids in a weekend or three.”

Another inspiration came when a mate from Yackandandah noticed his grandfather’s old hat hanging up and said: “Bet it’s got some stories”. It did, and resulted in the song “This Old Hat”.

Triggers like this led Cassar-Daley to incorporate a strongly visual element in the show, like pictures of his home as a child and later with the wife and kids.

“I know that my story inspires audiences,” he says, “the Hill’s Hoist you swung on as a kid – I’ve seen the hankies come out for that.”

His favourite is – no surprise – a projected photo of Charlie Perkins “in a deeply thoughtful mood”.

Troy Cassar-Daley, “Freedom Ride”, Vikings Club, August 15, bookings to premier.ticketek.com.au

Join QL2 Dance’s amazing

Young dancers aged 8–16 will work with great choreographers, get your ideas into the show, and perform! Maybe it will be a stepping stone to our senior “Quantum Leap” ensemble. And plenty of the older dancers are involved to inspire you.

is a contemporary dance creation and performance project for young people from Canberra and the region. Get into our unique program, and build confidence and skills in a creative and physically challenging environment.

Totally ‘Mission Improbable’

“Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation” (M)

IN writer/director Christopher McQuarrie’s melange of action, comedy, stylised violence, imagination and freedom of spirit making its 131 minutes less tedious than expected, Tom Cruise again plays IMF’s top field agent Ethan Hunt.

The film, shot during his 52nd year, asks him to deliver much high order derring-do.

Age is beginning to take its toll on the face that once hoisted Cruise to the top rung of the babe magnet ladder. In “M:I 5”, Cruise may have top billing and market power, but it’s the supporting players who lift the film’s tolerability level.

Separated from long-time crony Nick Frost to play Ethan’s sidekick Benji, Simon Pegg demonstrates his versatility. Alec Baldwin plays CIA director Hunley, convincing a congressional committee that the unconventional tradecraft of IMF is not in the national interest.

Jeremy Renner plays IMF director Brandt forced against his better judgement to accept the slap but remaining buddies with his former field agents, particularly Ethan.

And the girl. No spy actioner can hope to succeed at the box office without the girl. At first sight, Ilsa is an evil acolyte of Lane (Sean Harris), the rogue British intelligence officer now leading the Syndicate, which is doing its best to dominate the world once it gets its hands on the crucial piece of information or whatever else is blocking its path to success. Ilsa is an enigma. Be patient. Sit back and enjoy spectacular Rebecca Ferguson, the Swedish actress now filming alongside Meryl Streep in a biopic of Florence Foster Jenkins. That’s one worth waiting for.

McQuarrie adopts an easy solution to rescuing good guys from seemingly impossible hazards. Cut to black. Return to hazard resolved. Watching the contrivance for the umpteenth time propelled me to the conclusion that the film’s title might more correctly be “Mission Improbable”. But its ongoing fun factors encourage forgiveness.

At all cinemas

“Far From Men” (M)

WRITER/director David Oelhoffen’s feature film debut converts Albert Camus’s short story “L’Hŏte” into a comfortably-paced message film that presses the right buttons about moral and ethical issues that need no special stimulus to resonate. In 1954, the war of independence is slowly eroding French hegemony in Algeria. At a small school in the Atlas Mountains, Daru (Viggo Mortensen) is teaching Arab children about French stuff. Two men arrive. One of them, escorting the other to the town of Tinguit to stand trial for murder, persuades Daru that he must take on that task. The man (Reda Kateb) remains silent. Daru offers hospitality. We are watching the beginnings of epiphanies for both men. They set off on foot across a rock-strewn landscape so sere and blighted that at first it seems hateful. Nothing grows. How do people survive there? But survive they do. As the images become familiar to our senses, they become more magnificent. The film delivers a new meaning to the notion of figures in a landscape. Men from the prisoner’s village on horseback are following to exact revenge for the murder of a family member. Later a group of guerrilla fighters stands across the pair’s path. We learn more about the prisoner. We learn more about Daru. We see a detachment of French troops obeying orders. We see understanding developing between Daru and the prisoner, whom we now know to be Mohamed, unlettered, innocent of most aspects of human life. And the crunch moment arrives, as it must, when they must separate. The deeply moving story merits the attention of people of good will and compassion. The images are breathtaking.

At Palace Electric

Spooky, intense drama of ‘Gaslight’

BELLA Manningham (Kate Blackhurst) has been going mad – or so she has been told.

Her husband Jack (Peter Holland) raves at her about her mistakes and lapses, threatening to lock her up if she does not fix herself. But is Bella really mad or is this someone’s plot to convince her she is crazy?

Holland’s Jack is a sociopathically cruel martinet and from very early in the play it is obvious Bella is the victim of domestic violence. The most powerful scene of the play has Bella alone in the house desperately trying to find a “lost” bill that cannot be found. This moment perfectly captures how trapped women in

theatre

“Gaslight”

Directed by barb barnett

Canberra Rep

At Theatre 3 until August 15.

Reviewed by John Lombard

abusive relationships can feel.

However Pat Gallagher’s retired Inspector Rough provides hope when he makes an appearance and tells Bella an elaborate, fanciful story about a fortune in rubies hidden in the house. He sketches a dark past for her husband that involves not only murder and bigamy but, most damning, a

sojourn in Australia. But could this Inspector and his story themselves be just more delusions?

Director barb barnett provides us with a compelling and truthful psychological portrait of abuse, however the script calls for more paranoia and ambiguity to keep the audience guessing.

Jack is portrayed as an outright villain rather than a man driven to cruelty out of desperation, and this strangles the potential interpretations of the mystery.

Nonetheless, “Gaslight” is entertaining and spooky, with witty jokes and intense drama enlivening its otherwise predictable journey.

arts & entertainment / dining

‘Meating’ the challenge of service

I WAS unsure what to expect on my visit to the Meating Room when the person at the front counter in taking my order and giving me a table number asked if chardonnay was a white or a red wine. A bit of training needed, perhaps?

The Meating Room (note, not “meeting” if you’re looking for info on the place online) is a new dining establishment in Weston.

It’s a big place that dishes up breakfast, lunch and dinner and proudly bills itself as a café, grill and bar. The space is divided into three main areas – dining, bar and a glass-enclosed kids’ play area. It has a family-friendly atmosphere and a funky fitout with exposed piping and a bright yellow and red, milk crate-lined bar.

It was lunchtime and beyond some specials of the day, which included six-hour braised beef short ribs with salad and chips ($32), the menu is compact.

The Meating Room is smart enough to offer some

arts in the city

Fleeting

SOPRANO Sonia Anfiloff and baritone Ben Connor live in Vienna these days, but are back in town fleetingly for an Artsong recital entitled “A Fleeting Fantasy”. Together with Alan Hicks, their lecturer from ANU School of Music days, at the piano, the husband-and-wife singers will “explore a dark, magical path through forests and skies with the likes of Debussy, Strauss, Ullman, Wolf and Medtner”. At Wesley Music Centre, 20 National Circuit, Forrest, 3pm, on Sunday, August 9. No bookings, tickets at the door.

GURRUMUL’S “The Gospel Album” is a re-imagining of the spiritual songs, lullabies and gospel songs from the church at Elcho Island to which his mother and aunts took him. He’ll be at the Canberra Theatre, supported by Caiti Baker, of Darwin duo Sietta, on Monday, August 10. Bookings to canberratheatrecentre.com.au or 6275 2700.

My burger was perfectly cooked... The bun was massive – you need to be a Brumbies player to tackle it.

healthy options, such as Quinoa salad ($14.50) and a baby beetroot winter salad, with roast pumpkin, rocket, shallots, roast pine nuts and blue cheese ($14.50).

Not paying too much attention to our health, we zeroed in on pub grub items, with my friend ordering the chicken schnitzel, in her neverending search for the perfect one. I gave the beef burger a go.

Then we waited. And waited. And waited.

We ordered at precisely 12.49 and the food arrived, after one enquiry as to its whereabouts, at 1.25. I’d hate to think what would have happened had the place been packed (it was far from it).

My burger was perfectly cooked, with a decent-sized beef pattie and I loved the blue cheese and caramelised onions ($16.50). The bun was massive – you need to be a Brumbies player to tackle it – and staff reported the size of it was a common complaint so the Meating Room is thinking of changing it to something more

manageable. The chips were a no brainer. I’ve had much better.

As for the schnitzel ($16.50)? It wasn’t bad, but I didn’t think worthy of a gold star. The red wine jus was okay (you can also opt for pepper sauce, onion gravy or Diane sauce). And did the salad have dressing? We weren’t sure.

Other lunch options include a crispy crumbed fish burger ($16), a veggie burger with grilled haloumi, field mushrooms and other goodies (sounds nice, $16.50), bangers and mash ($16.50) and risotto ($15.40). A pasta of the day ($15.50) and laksa of the day ($15.50) are also available.

We refrained from ordering the deep-fried cheesecake or any other dessert (all $14). Having waited so long for our order, it was simply time to go.

The Meating Room, 45B Liardet Street, Weston. Call 6288 6328.

visit for a ‘Fleeting Fantasy’

“SNOWTUNES 2015” is billed as a European-style festival set by the shores of Lake Jindabyne, 5pm-midnight, on Saturday, August 15. The line-up of Australian and international artists includes Slumberjack, Paces, Hermitude, rapper and hip-hop artists Allday, Tkay Maidza and Fortafy. Buses from Canberra and Queanbeyan. Bookings to snowtunes.com.au

DIRECTOR Ross McGregor reports from Sydney that he has just opened a play by Lisa D’Amour, “Detroit”, at The Eternity Playhouse in Darlinghurst. Former Canberra actors Ed Wightman and James O’Connell feature in the show.

THE Canberra Craft & Quilt Fair will feature two national quilt challenges, “True Blue” and the “Lest We Forget Quilt Challenge – 100 years, 100 quilts”. As well, there’ll be works by members of Canberra Quilters Inc. and 20 quilts by the Canberra Modern Quilt Guild. It’s at EPIC, 10am-4.30pm, on August 6-9. Bookings to craftfair.com.au or tickets at the door.

IGITUR Nos Chamber Choir, conducted by Matthew Stuckings, will present “Angel Voices” in Canberra Girls’ Grammar School Chapel, 2pm, on Sunday, August 9. Stuckings

selected the music from 100 works nominated by choir members. The baroque orchestra for the concert will feature Australian-made wooden recorders played by Robyn Mellor and Olivia Gossip, as well as violas da gamba and baroque cello. Admission is free, but early arrival is advised.

HELEN MUSA

gardening ‘Outrageously beautiful’ peony

PEONIES would have to be in the top 10 of popular plants in the world.

I saw one description of these flowers “as outrageously beautiful in flower” and another, from a catalogue of 1928, as “the noblest hardy perennial”. These claims are not exaggerated. They are also long lived and have survived in old gardens for more than 100 years. They were first introduced into western gardens in the very early 1800s from Tibet and China, having been discovered by European plant hunters.

If you have never grown peonies, now’s the time to have a go. They are sold as bare-rooted tubers in garden centres.

There is nothing complicated about growing them. They prefer full sun to part shade and are best planted in a rich, organic soil, which can be compost from your own heap or rotted leaves with composted cow manure worked into the soil.

The site must be very well draining; they don’t tolerate waterlogged soil, especially after long rain periods.

Decide carefully where you want them to grow as they don’t like being disturbed once planted. Most importantly, give them space to

grow; at least half a metre apart. Cold winters such as we are experiencing are ideal because, as with many fruit trees, they require a chilling factor for good bud formation. It is often said that peonies take several years to flower. This is usually due to such factors as too dense shade, poor soil preparation or not feeding them. From my own experience newly planted peonies flowered in the first year, although there is more chance of them flowering in the first spring, if planted in late autumn. Single

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larly. I have had hanging gardens of nearly 10 years old that still use the same foam underfelt liner. For maximum effect plant a variety to flower over an extended period.

IT’S potato planting time, with far too many varieties to list here. One exhibitor at the Royal Horticultural Society fruit and vegetable show in London regularly displays about 350 varieties!

Most garden centres in Canberra carry an extensive selection of potatoes. Of interest, it was quite late when the “e” was added to the name. I have original editions of the English “The Gardener’s Chronicle” from the 1870s to the 1930s that show the spelling as “potatos”. Who knows when the “e” was added?

and double varieties are available, although I think the doubles are the more spectacular.

IT’S a good time to think about hanging gardens, of which some would refer to as “hanging baskets”.

Firstly, I recommend lining the basket with foam carpet underfelt, the multi-coloured one with plastic on one side. Usually you can find most carpet shops are happy to oblige with offcuts.

Unlike fast-draining coconut liners, birds don’t pull the underfelt apart for nesting material.

Place the plastic side on the inside with a few holes for drainage. The multi-coloured material of green, yellow and blue blend in with most gardens. Hang the basket with a swivel hook, which allows the plant to be rotated regu -

Jottings...

• Plant a second crop of broad beans.

• Sow seeds of Virginian stocks, delphiniums and larkspurs.

• Plant a bay tree for flavouring stews and casseroles.

• Peas do best in new ground. Soak overnight in warm water before planting to soften them resulting in quicker germination.

Joanne

Madeline Moore

your week in the stars – August 10-16, 2015

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

Jupiter jumps into your wellbeing zone on Tuesday, which is good news for your physical health and emotional wellbeing over the next 13 months. There’s one proviso though – you’ll have to be disciplined. If you overdo your food intake and underdo regular exercise, then it could lead to weight problems. Thursday’s Sun/ Uranus trine encourages you to improvise, innovate and be as spontaneous as possible. Then the creative cream will rise to the top.

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)

Over the next 13 months, many Bulls will take up a sport or hobby; start a hot romance; go on holiday; or welcome a new addition to the family. Creative projects are also favoured. This week is a terrific time to tackle overdue domestic chores and DIY projects, plus spend some quality time with a special child or teenager in your life. But a friendship or family matter may head off in a surprising new direction so you’ll have to be flexible and open to change.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Someone tells you something in confidence but can a talkative Twin be trusted to keep a secret? You’re in the mood to socialise up a storm, but don’t let convivial conversation degenerate into gratuitous gossip. Do your best to be diplomatic and discreet. Jupiter is about to expand your domestic horizons. So over the next 13 months you could buy or sell real estate, move house, get a new housemate, or renovate so you have more space in your present dwelling.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

Your social media profile really takes off over the next 13 months and one of your posts could even go viral! As Jupiter blesses all forms of communication. So make sure you have plenty of topical things to say. It’s also a fabulous time to study, teach or travel. This week, take a good long look at your finances and find ways to combine forces with other people for positive outcomes. Listening to sound advice is the best policy, as you work on manifesting abundance.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

Have you been worrying about money matters? Jupiter is jumping through your $$$ zone for the next 13 months, so make the most of the lucky financial opportunities that come your way. With the New Moon, Venus and Mars all in Leo later in the week, it’s time for confident, charismatic Cats to sparkle and shine. So your motto for the moment is from birthday great Madonna (born on August 16, 1958): “I stand for freedom of expression and going after your dreams.”

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)

Have you temporarily lost your vim and verve? The late week New Moon period is the perfect time to revive your run down batteries, as you take a weekend break from your hectic daily routine and escape somewhere quiet and private, where you can relax and rejuvenate. And with Jupiter moving through your sign – until September 2016 – are you ready to morph into the creative and vibrant Virgo you were born to be? Self-belief is the rocket fuel that will take you places.

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)

The week proceeds slowly, but then Thursday’s Sun/Uranus trine and Friday’s New Moon help jolt many laidback Librans out of snooze-control and into spontaneous action. Contributing to a joint venture or a group project brings long-lasting satisfaction over the next 13 months. If you’re attached, your partner could surprise you with an unexpected gift or unusual proposition. Singles – don’t go looking for love in the same old places. Aim to be much more adventurous.

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)

It’s time to make plans and set goals for the future. And don’t make them too safe and sensible Scorpio! Go for gold, as Jupiter helps you envision ambitious dreams and creative schemes over the next 13 months. And the New Moon urges you to think of creative ways to boost your professional profile or kick-start a stale career. But to encourage the very best outcome, delay applying for promotions or jobs until after Venus goes direct on September 6.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Prepare for a big week when your ruling planet shifts into a different zodiac sign, which only happens once a year. On Tuesday, Jupiter (planet of good fortune and prosperity) transits into earthy Virgo - and it also moves into your career house, which bodes well for a promotion, new job or lucky professional break coming your way. Over the next 13 months, you’ll find the more you ground your fiery energy and galvanise your ambitions, the more successful you’ll be.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Capricorns can easily get stuck in a domestic rut but this week Uranus shakes up your home life and encourages you to spring-clean, de-clutter and re-organise. You’ll feel fabulous when you finish! Jupiter also transits into your travel zone, so foreign shores beckon over the coming year. Start planning your itinerary now. It’s also important to keep up-to-date with your international contacts. With lucky Jupiter on your side, who knows where they may lead?

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Over the next year, Jupiter (planet of prosperity) moves through your ‘moneyfrom-others zone’. So some lucky Aquarians will benefit from an inheritance, loan, freebie, financial partnership, divorce settlement, insurance claim, superannuation pay-out or bumper tax return. If communication with your partner has been strained, try a completely different approach. Singles – with retro Venus stalling things, your love life isn’t progressing as quickly as you’d like.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Are you feeling lost at sea in a quagmire of possibilities? This week Jupiter shifts into sensible Virgo, which will help you be a bit more discriminating and focused. Fabulous fantasies and wild imaginings are fine, but it’s imperative that you finally find your true calling; follow it; and stick to it. Be inspired by no-nonsense birthday great Julia Child (one of the original celebrity chefs): “Find something you’re passionate about and keep tremendously interested in it.”

Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2015 Daily astrology updates at twitter.com/JoMadelineMoore

General knowledge crossword No. 512

Canberra’s unique hearing clinic

Across

3 Which S Asian republic was formerly known as Ceylon (3,5)?

7 In August 2006, Pluto lost its status as a what?

8 Name a ball game of American Indian origin.

9 Name an artificial obstruction for deflecting radio sounds, etc.

10 What is another expression for petrol?

11 What is an eight-legged wingless, predatory arachnid?

14 Which term describes proverbs?

17 Which sealed glass bulbs are used to hold hypodermic solutions.

18 Name some of the large sea ducks.

19 What do we call one’s descendants?

20 What was the profession of Charlotte Bronte?

21 That which is determined by the stars is called what?

Sudoku medium No. 156

Down

1 What, colloquially, is a very large profit (5,2)?

2 To be formed into one, is to be what?

3 Name a classic horse race run annually at Doncaster, England (2,5).

4 Name a renowned English fast bowler, Harold ...

5 When birds are preparing to lay eggs, they are said to be doing what?

6 To never grow old, is described as being what?

11 What are meetings of people seeking to communicate with the dead?

12 To have indicated or suggested, is to have done what?

13 Quito is the capital of which S American republic?

14 Name a famous English soccer team.

15 What describes the state of a sour taste.

16 Name another famous English soccer team.

Dr Vass and his team are here to help. These are some common question Dr Vass is asked and the answers.

Question: If I have a hearing loss, what should I do?

Answer: The first thing to do is to get a comprehensive assessment by an independent professional. Experience and qualifications vary widely, so ask about both before deciding on where to go. Dr. Vass has over 35 years experience and is an expert in his field, having attained the highest qualification in audiology-Doctor of Audiology (one of only 21 in all of Australia). You may or may not need hearing aids but you do need the best advice so you are not “sold” something.

Question: Aren’t all hearing clinics basically the same?

Answer: NO, there is big difference between clinics in Canberra. The majority of clinics in Canberra are owned and operated by large, multinational corporations. This fact may or may not be good for consumers but as an independent clinic we are not bound to any one manufacturer. Therefore, if you do need a hearing aid, we will recommend the best one to suit your individual needs.

Question: Do Hearing Aids Work?

Answer: YES, hearing aids help hearing impaired people to hear better in many situations.

Recent advances in hearing aid technology mean that most people will benefit from a hearing aid in even difficult listening situations such as background noise. Bluetooth technology, remote microphones, and small, discreet hearing aids are just a few of the innovations that help people successfully use hearing aids.