‘CityNews’ wishes all its wonderful readers (naughty and nice) a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year
What will Santa bring Labor?
MICHAEL MOORE When cheer turns to conflict MARTIN FISK
Don’t bury your head in the Christmas pud NICK JENSEN
Mullah Abbott wags a dangerous finger JOHN GRIFFITHS
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christmas / santa claus
Handcuffs to polar bears, John’s heard
Reporter KATHRYN
VUKOVLJAK gets behind the beard of Canberra’s most experienced Santa Claus
AFTER more than 31 years as Santa Claus, John Wright thinks he may have heard it all.
“Oh you get the lot, I must have seen tens of thousands of children and I’ve been asked for anything from a rainbow to the sad stories where they want daddy to come back home,” he says.
“The weirdest thing I’ve been asked for this year is a potato. And someone else wanted a mushroom – just one.
“Another child asked for handcuffs; I thought that was a strange one. She came back and asked me three or four times. Turned out she wanted to handcuff her little brother, who was a bit of an escape artist, to a table leg because he kept running off and it was upsetting her mum.
“Someone else asked me for a polar bear. I had to tell them I don’t bring live animals, they jump out of the sleigh and we can’t have that.” John, 68, believes he might be the longestserving Santa in Canberra.
He says he’s worked as Santa for 31 years in many of the shopping malls around Canberra, but has settled into Westfield Woden where he’s been for 12 years.
“I always wanted to be Santa,” he says. “It’s a calling, I think.”
Back in the early days John says he would take annual leave to be able to fulfil Santa duties,
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because he felt it was an important thing to do.
“I saw a contestant on ‘Millionaire Hot Seat’ who was a Santa, and he said it was terrible, with all the beard pulling and kids who wet on him. And I thought, no you can’t say that. I love it all,” says John.
“There’s a bit of beard pulling but no one has ever wet on me, well maybe once but I think the child was already wet.
“It doesn’t worry me at all, none of it. You just have to make it fun and give every child your full attention and make sure the parents get the photo they want.
“I’m a fast Santa, too; I keep the line moving.”
John, who’s been a long-time foster carer with his wife Lorraine, says he’s always doing something and is never inactive. He works with children with intellectual disabilities and as a school assistant when it’s not Santa season.
“Before the season starts we go to a Santa training school in Sydney, as there are about 50 of us employed by Westfield all over Australia,” he says.
“About 20 per cent of them grow their own beards, so perhaps they don’t get quite so hot as those of us who wear the fake ones.”
John says it’s not always small children who come along to sit on his knee.
“An 82-year-old lady came in with her daughter to visit me and she had a lovely time and even initiated a bit of a kiss,” he says.
“I really do have a wonderful time, though physically it’s hands on.
“I love the variety of people I meet and the kids and parents are always fabulous.
Distribution: Richard Watson, circulation@citynews.com.au
GPO Box 2448, Canberra 2601 Responsibility for election comment is taken by Ian Meikle, Level 1, 143 London Circuit, Canberra.
John Wright as Santa with Kaydan O’Neal, four... “I always wanted to be Santa”.
Photo by Andrew Finch
As the world is saved, Abbott boxes on
Liberal Leader Jeremy Hanson should realise by now that he requires more than loud opposition to light rail to convince voters they should throw out the incumbents.
WE’VE saved the world! So cried the 187 climate-change negotiators who signed the Paris agreement to keep global warming to just over two degrees. Great news; but is it enough? Only time will tell.
THAT old Oxford boxing Blue, Tony Abbott , just can’t stay out of the ring. Despite his promise not to undermine his successor, he was throwing wild rights that forced PM Malcolm Turnbull on to the defensive. And when the bell rang, Tony retired to his corner with the encouraging sentiments of Pauline Hanson Donald ringing in his ears. They make quite a
MEANTIME, Malcolm had set
sail on his quest for an “ideas boom” with a billion-dollar innovation package that drew strong support from those most affected.
CSIRO boss Larry Marshall was thrilled with the $100 million replacing the funding ripped away by the Abbott Government plus another $75 million for its Data61 arm. Not surprising since Larry previously ran a venture-capital firm based in Silicon Valley, Shanghai and Sydney devoted to expanding Australian technology companies in Asia and the US.
LESS popular was Turnbull’s call for convicted terrorists to be kept in prison after they had served their sentences. Not surprising; we don’t defend democracy by abandoning the rule of law… or the separation of powers.
UNLIKE his former boss, failed Treasurer Joe Hockey accepted Malcolm’s golden handshake and started packing for Washington as our head of mission to the American court. And the voters in his ultra-safe North Sydney seat showed their displeasure with a
swing of 14 per cent against the Libs in the by-election. They know a cynical political stitch-up when they see it.
HOWEVER, the North Sydney result did show that the Libs in our own forthcoming
ROBERT MACKLIN
Mosaic Baptist Church
dose of dorin
AFTER all those worthy sentiments to do something meaningful about domestic violence a couple of weeks ago, staff at Canberra’s refuges say they’re still stretched to breaking point…and their busiest times are the Christmas and the New Year “celebrations”. How sadly ironic is that?
TERRIFIC idea from Federal Tourism Minister, the previously unheard of Tasmanian Senator, Richard Colbeck , to add a Mandarin version to our road signs – particularly on the major routes – to encourage more Chinese visitors.
Already, almost a million of them spend $7.7 billion here each year, with about 40 per cent driving themselves.
election can’t take the “Turnbull factor” for granted in their quest for power. They are being extraordinarily tardy in even announcing their candidates; despite Turnbull’s denials, it seems they are just as riven by factions as the Labor Party.
And Leader Jeremy Hanson should realise by now that he requires more than loud opposition to light rail to convince voters they should throw out the incumbents.
Pardon the pun, but he needs to raise the bar.
“So [Mandarin] signage on roads, wi-fi and basic amenities are important to explore our vast country safely,” Richard says. And, of course, travellers to China know that the road signs there are also in English. So, it’s only courteous to reciprocate. But will the State governments respond?
Perhaps Chief Minister Andrew Barr, who boasted that his Asian visits have borne such rich economic fruit, might care to give a lead.
FINALLY, it’s been a privilege and a delight to share the weekly news with “CityNews” readers in 2015. And next year looks to be a feast in store. Have a good one! robert@robertmacklin.com
THURSDAY, 17 DECEMBER
UNTIL
WEDNESDAY, 23 DECEMBER
10AM - 7PM
CHRISTMAS
10AM - 5PM CHRISTMAS
8:30AM - 6PM
All we really want for Christmas is…
‘What do you want most for Christmas?’ reporter KATE MEIKLE asked some of Canberra’s leading charities and community organisations…
Domestic Violence Crisis Service
“DVCS would like all people, regardless of age, gender identity, religion, race, culture, ability or socioeconomic status to call us if they are concerned about their relationship.”
DVCS executive director Mirjana Wilson says that domestic or family violence has many elements, most of which are not physical.
“It is about power and control. People that use violence in their intimate and family relationships don’t wake up one day and decide to abuse, it is a learned behaviour that increases in severity over time,” she says.
Lifeline Canberra
“All we want for Christmas is for Canberrans to have a safe and happy festive season. Sadly, we realise this is not the reality for some.”
CEO Carrie Leeson says that Christmas is Lifeline Canberra’s busiest time of the year as its telephone crisis support teams work around the clock to be with those in need.
“We won’t tell you to leave the relationship or to call the police, we will be guided by you as to how best to address your support needs. We want to work with you to ensure you and your family can work towards safety.
“The DVCS will listen, share information, make referrals and advocate on your behalf. We are guided by your needs and goals based on your unique situation.”
DVCS crisis line, 24/7, on 6280 0900.
“We’re here to listen if you need to work through difficult feelings or situations, whether it be financial, relationship, addiction, domestic violence, loneliness or other,” says Carrie.
“If you, or someone you know, needs someone to be there for them during this time please call us on 131114,” she says.
Smith Family
“All I want for Christmas is for every child growing up in disadvantage to have the opportunity to participate fully in their education and be able to create a brighter future.”
OLGA Srbovski, The Smith Family’s Regional Programs manager, says now is the time to
St Vincent de Paul Society
“All I want for Christmas is for everyone in our community to have a safe, stable and happy home.”
ST Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/ Goulburn president Frank Brassil says that there are more than 1500 homeless people in the ACT who don’t have somewhere to call home because of the critical shortage of social and affordable housing.
“While most in Canberra will have family gatherings over Christmas, we should take a little time to think about why, in a country as prosperous as Australia, there are not enough houses for everyone who needs one,” says Frank.
Donate to its Christmas appeal at vinnies.org.au/ christmasappeal or call 131812.
make a charitable donation to help children in need.
“The Smith Family needs to raise $3.4 million by the end of the year to help 8500 children in need across Australia to access vital out-of-school learning support programs,” she says.
Visit thesmithfamily.com.au to see how you can help.
Traffic Operations
“All I want for Christmas is for ACT Policing NOT to knock on the door of a family and tell them a loved one is not coming home because they died or have been injured on a Canberra road.”
STATION Sgt Susan Ball, officer in charge of Traffic Operations, says: “Our vision is for zero deaths on Canberra’s roads.
Salvation Army
“All I want for Christmas is to connect to what really matters and to appreciate time spent with loved ones.”
“CHRISTMAS can be an isolating and financially difficult time for many Australians and we believe no one should go it alone,” say Majors Howard and Robyn Smartt, divisional commanders, ACT &
South NSW Division.
“Think of others this Christmas and bring hope to where it’s needed most. That’s what Christmas is all about,” they say.
The Salvation Army expects to help more than 5000 Canberrans over the Christmas period.
Donate to its Christmas Appeal, visit salvos.org.au call 137258, or contact any local branch of The Salvation Army.
in charge of Traffic Operations.
“What’s killing people is drink driving, drug driving and speeding. If we reduce these factors, we can achieve our vision.”
This Christmas, Sgt Bell is asking Canberrans to slow down.
“It’s a time to celebrate together and not standing in a hospital ward over broken bodies,” she says.
“Relax and enjoy time with family and friends rather than rushing on the roads. Let’s hope I get what I want for Christmas...
Australian Red Cross
“ONCE you’ve bought a Kris Kringle for a workmate, a quirky gift for your brother-in-law or any of the presents you need for family and friends, Red Cross would like you to consider one more gift for someone who really needs it.”
Wenda Donaldson, ACT executive director, Australian Red Cross, says one more gift to Red Cross will help ensure an older or isolated person gets a phone call every day to check they’re okay, clean water for a young child in a remote village in Myanmar or a shower and a meal for a teenager sleeping rough.
“This Christmas I urge everyone to consider making one more gift to Red Cross. To make your gift to Red Cross call 1800 811700 or go to redcross.org.au,” she says.
Station Sgt Susan Ball, officer
Olga Srbovski, centre, with staff from The Smith Family’s Woden office.
Majors Howard and Robyn Smartt, divisional commanders, ACT & South NSW Division.
Carrie Leeson, CEO of Lifeline Canberra.
St Vincent de Paul’s Frank Brassil.
Wenda Donaldson, ACT executive director, Australian Red Cross.
Mirjana Wilson, DVCS executive director.
Christmas in the City
12 Days of Christmas everyday: December 11-23
• 3pm-8pm, Asthma Foundation ACT Kids Hub, Petrie Plaza
• 1pm-7pm, Camel rides, City Walk
• 3pm-7pm, Cancer Support Group Animal Farm, City Walk-Ainslie Place
• 1pm-8pm, Flip Out Trampolining, Garema Place
• 3pm-11pm, Christmas Night Markets, City Walk
• 3pm-11pm, Taste Canberra Markets, Petrie Plaza
• 6pm-11pm, Christmas Lights in the City (Tunnel & Tree)
• 6pm-11pm, Gingerbread House
• Ongoing – Pavilion X, Garema Place Check inthecitycanberra.com.au for schedule updates
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AS we close out another year, our cultural celebrations begin once more. Though Christmas has traditionally been a significantly religious festival around the birth of Jesus, many are now happy to shift the “religion” aspect to the side. It would be argued that if good food, family and friends are all there, no deeper understanding is needed.
However, there is a great irony that must be recognised. In Australia we see concerted pressure on religion to be left out of our politics, our media and our schools. Many see it as the relic of a by-gone era, something that would best be left to die in the elements. The irony is that religion in our current climate is more relevant now than it has been in the last 50 years.
As much as we might like to simply bury our heads in the Christmas puddings, the rise of violent events with undeniable (but not solely) religious motivation targeting the Western world is increasing. It is a sad truth that we often fail to adequately recognise when these events happen in distant cultures, but at the same time it is an understandable shock when it happens in places of shared heritage such as Europe and the US.
It is important for us as a society to be honest about the significant role religion plays. For example, when ABC journalists claim “these recent attacks have nothing to do with Islam”, it leads us down a path of deliberate ignorance. The motivation of trying to protect the vast majority of Muslims who live in Australia from abuse and distrust is an admirable one, but pretending there aren’t serious discussions to be had around the topic is unhelpful.
In fact, I see this increasing lack of understanding about religion, by which I mean beliefs, world views and customs of the major faiths, to be a dangerous path.
Our world views, comprehended or not, touch all areas of life from work and leisure, to relationships and education. By trying to deny this fundamental part of humanity you create greater cultural dissidence. In other words, the more you push religion away from public discussion, the greater alienation people of faith
The more you push religion away from public discussion, the greater alienation people of faith will feel.
will feel, alienation that often leads to fear and anger. So, although it may be uncomfortable, we need to start learning seriously about religion and the claims various narratives are making. In this way there will be better dialogue, less stereotypes, deeper understanding of the issues, and greater cultural connections. If what is happening is a clash of ideologies, then surely the answer is not to ignore, but rather debate with vigour, honesty and, most importantly, grace. This will help make sure ideas based on misinformation or misunderstandings that lead to violence can be exposed.
For example, it is ridiculous that in my 13 years of Canberra schooling a Bible or Koran were never opened. This despite the fact that these books have been the #1 bestseller in the world every year since the printing press was invented.
Even our universities are falling behind, with ANU scrapping the Religious Studies department 10 years ago (I was in the middle of my major at the time).
As we look forward to the New Year with some anticipation of where the world is heading, I would encourage you to not just stop at the Christmas ham. Visit your local mosque or church, read the Bible and Koran, and then seek to engage in this conversation of religion that is going on all around us. Not in a way that seeks to ridicule, adding fuel to the fire, but rather seeking genuine understanding about their story of humanity in this world. Who knows, you may even discover more about your own story too. Merry Christmas.
Nick Jensen is the director of the Lachlan Macquarie Institute, which helps develop leaders in public policy (lmi.org.au)
NICK JENSEN
The Christmas story comes to life
By Kate Meikle
GET up close and personal with characters from the nativity story at the Queanbeyan Nativity Trail, an event supported by several local churches.
On Sunday, December 20, the Christmas story will come to life as volunteers enact the nativity scene across five sites, dotted around the centre of Queanbeyan.
Organiser Alison Moir says she was inspired by the nativity scenes she experienced when she was visiting Florence.
“Each church would present a beautiful display and tourists would be advised about where to go to see them each day,” she says.
Alison took the idea back to her hometown. She asked each church to participate, and organised volunteers to perform the roles, as a gift to the community.
“The idea works so well in Queanbeyan as the churches are close together. People can easily walk around, it’s flat and wheelchair accessible,” she says.
“The Nativity Trail is an opportunity to interact with the characters, talk to them and have photos taken.”
Alison says that visitors will firstly meet a Roman Orator at the Salvation Army on Morrisett Street who will hand out passports to be stamped at each location. The three wise men will be stationed at St Raphael’s Catholic Church in Lowe Street. The Uniting Church on Rutledge Street will host the shepherds and an angel.
“Across the road is HOME community centre that served 14,000 meals to people in need this year,” says Alison.
“At HOME you will meet the innkeeper and can have a tea or coffee, as it will function like an inn.
“Next door, at the Anglican Church will be the whole nativity scene, including a mum, dad and their newborn baby as the holy family.”
Queanbeyan Nativity Trail, 4pm-6pm, December 20. Trail commences at the Salvation Army, 9/10 Morrisett Street.
Tim for breakfast
JOURNALIST Tim Shaw, pictured, will return from three years in Thailand to take over the 2CC breakfast spot vacated this month by Mark Parton.
Shaw, a journalist for the Seven Network and presenter of the ASEAN news hour, is also known to Australian audiences through many years as a talkback radio presenter with 2GB and 2UE. His first program will be on Monday, January 11.
Come all ye faithful
CANBERRA’S largest community Christmas event, the Salvation Army’s annual Carols in Town Park, will be held on Sunday, December 20, in Tuggeranong Town Park, Bartlett Place, Greenway. A family friendly event, the evening starts with jumping castles, pony rides and farm animals from 5pm. And there is a chance of a visit from Santa. Community carols start at 6.30pm led by Amber Nichols from “The Voice”, Katie de Veau, Dallas Atkins, The Salvation Army’s National Capital Band & Timbrels and Canberra Community Voices. Last year, almost 5000 attended the event.
When in the shower...
BOSOM Buddies ACT will mark its 20th anniversary by distributing 20,000 waterproof shower tags that show women how to check their breasts and emphasises the importance of early detection of breast changes. The tags will be distributed through BreastScreen ACT, health centres, and medical practices as well as by Bosom Buddies at Breast Awareness presentations and fundraising events.
Cat Moir in the guise of an angel will be part of Queanbeyan’s Nativity Trail. Photo by Andrew Finch
christmas / care
When family cheer turns to conflict
CHRISTMAS is supposed to be the best day of the year, right? Ever since we were little kids, we’ve looked forward to this day because it’s extra special.
Yet for some families it’s not, because Christmas cheer can turn into Christmas conflict.
I know many adults, particularly parents, who feel a relentless pressure around Christmas to create something “special” for everyone on Christmas Day. Separated parents in particular feel the weight of expectation and often overwhelming isolation as they face part or all of the “special day” without their kids.
In case you’re wondering, there are around one million single-parent families in Australia right now or around 20,000 in Canberra.
For some reason, men in particular don’t seem to cope well with pressure, loneliness and alcohol. Over the years, I’ve seen so many men react to stress or disappointment either through anger and violence or by withdrawing. Christmas can be a particularly difficult time, especially for newly separated dads.
So what can you do about it if your expectations don’t match reality?
• If you’re a separated parent, maybe have another special “Christmas Day”: It can be really hard as a separated parent fitting in what used to be a whole day into a lunch or dinner visit. One idea is to give your kids a second Christmas. If you can, have them over the weekend before and do the Santa thing, presents and even a Christmas dinner. Trust me, your kids won’t complain and you’ll treasure the memories, even if you’re by yourself on the actual day.
• Enjoy the moment: Even if things don’t work out the way you’d hoped, it’s still okay. People will remember how you made them feel long after they’ve forgotten any of the material stuff. If things don’t turn out well, you always have a choice on how you react: just think about
Ashamed of Canberra’s appearance
HAVING recently moved here, I have been intrigued and dismayed with the state of footpaths and public green spaces in Canberra.
I have been walking daily through the inner-south suburbs around Parliament House and have been amazed at kneelength or higher grass on footpaths and along major roads such as Melbourne Avenue.
Footpaths are sometimes impassable, street signs are often bent, untrimmed hedges make walking along public paths impossible and graffiti remains unremoved.
One wonders what the ACT government does with the very substantial sums raised from the amazingly high rates and taxes.
I’ve walked around the western basin of the lake where signs are faded and indecipherable, and there are discarded bottles in beautiful, green parks.
I note with agreement and equal disappointment the letter “Sad, depressing sights” (CN, November 26).
For some reason, men in particular don’t seem to cope well with pressure, loneliness and alcohol.
how you would like people to remember this Christmas.
• Walk away from conflict: If things are getting heated, walk away for a while and calm down. Again, you always have a choice in determining your own behaviour: is being right or in control more important on this day than your relationships with your family?
• Call police if there’s violence. Family violence is just plain wrong. On any day of the year. There is no excuse and no one respects someone who beats up their family. No one. Call police if you’re at risk or a trusted friend or crisis call service if you feel things are getting out of control.
• If you’re lonely or upset, get connected and stay occupied: Do something nice for yourself, find other people you know and visit them or maybe go to a community lunch or dinner. Phone a family member or a friend. If things are bad, call Lifeline, MensLine or BeyondBlue. They’ll help you get through.
• Reach out to someone else: Each Christmas I make a point of phoning friends who are recently separated or who might have had a tough year. If you know someone in this boat – a colleague, a neighbour, a friend or family member – give them a call, visit them or invite them over. Something simple like that can make a huge difference. Most importantly, remember it’s only one day of the year. You have 364 other days to make a difference to your family! So have a great Christmas, and celebrate every day.
Anyone who feels they need help or emotional support should call Lifeline 131114 or MensLine 1300 789978.
Martin Fisk is the CEO of Menslink.
Maybe it’s time Canberra’s civic leaders took a long, hard look at the standard of maintenance of public places in other capital cities.
I’m ashamed of Canberra, the city I now call home. It should be Australia’s showcase. I just don’t understand.
Name withheld on request
Ratepayers deserve more
I AGREE with Cedric Bryant (CN, letters, November 26) re unkempt nature strips etcetera.
As a new resident to Gungahlin, I recently took an interstate visitor to Yerrabi Ponds. We drove around streets in the vicinity to admire the lovely homes and gardens, but were shocked at the unkempt nature strips with weeds and grasses waist high.
This neglect by the local government alters the ambience of the area and it is just asking for graffiti and litter.
What a shame to see this lovely, upmarket area neglected in this way. Ratepayers deserve more.
Angela Martin, Franklin
Keep politics out of review
I REFER to the review of the “Tom Roberts” exhibition at the NGA and the uncalled for political comments by Anja Loughhead at the end of her review (“Roberts from every angle”, CN, December 10).
A review’s objective is to focus on the merits of the subject matter, not a political discourse of the reviewer pushing their own political agenda.
I strongly suggest the reviewer be counselled about this matter or be replaced. By the way, it is right and proper to celebrate Roberts, as he was a great Australian painter. I shall certainly be going.
Mark Goyne, via email
What will Santa bring Labor?
I’M not usually big on conspiracy theory. My experience has been that things go wrong through stuff-up.
However, the little elves seem to have been working hard this year to provide Labor with a windfall in the guise of what looks like a community benefit and, simultaneously, removes a seriously toxic irritant.
Although no decision has yet been made on allowing the casino gaming machines there are great temptations for the government.
Being able to argue that they have reduced the number of gaming machines will be well received and removing the conflict of interest that Labor has in making decisions around gaming machines would be a monkey off their back.
In October, the Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee
If limited supply and high demand created by the casino means the price is right, ACT Labor can sell a big number of its gaming machines to the casino and bank a huge windfall gain.
lems associated with gaming machines. The committee largely reached tri-partisan agreement and was roundly welcomed by the clubs industry.
The government was unusually quick tabling a relatively unpopular response in mid-November that even failed to seriously address the issue of problem gambling, which is considered responsible for up to 40 per cent of gaming-machine revenue.
Parallel to this is a drive by the owners of the casino, Aquis and its CEO Justin Fung, to gain access to gaming machines on the promise of redevelopment around the casino precinct and support for the Canberra community.
Aquis has already worked closely with the government to secure an $8 million support package for the Brumbies over six years. The question is how much more closely will government be working with the casino into the future?
Step one has already been taken
for Aquis with gaming machines now a tradable commodity between clubs. The government has set (an appropriate) restriction on the number of machines and supply and demand will determine their value. Were the casino to have access to the 500 or so they seek, the value will skyrocket.
Now for the conspiracy theory: if limited supply and high demand created by the casino means the price is right, ACT Labor can sell a big number of its machines to the casino, bank a huge windfall gain into its fund-holding entity Foundation 73 and rely on the interest from investments to fund Labor’s campaigns for years to come.
Labor will escape the conflict-of-interest accusations, have enough money to run its campaigns and no longer be exposed to constant accusations about not doing enough for problem gambling. Moreover, it will be able to reduce the overall number of machines
Email: cw@dvcs.org.au (8am to 11pm daily)
and, at the same time, have a consistent and reliable income for the party.
But what about the community interest? The ACT has the lowest gaming machine taxation rate in Australia – in 2012-13 this was $35.71 million. Shouldn’t there also be revenue from the commercial sales? Clubs provide a range of community services. What will happen to these?
The Productivity Commission has provided disturbing evidence that the harm associated with gaming machines in casinos is on average three times greater than the harm when used in community clubs.
And its recommendations around maximum $1 bets and mandatory pre-commitment have been ignored.
The way things have been developing in 2015 it really is looking like ACT Labor may well get a pleasant visit from Santa.
Michael Moore was an independent member of the ACT Legislative Assembly (1989 to 2001) and was minister for health.
PS: In last week’s column, Michael Moore pointed out that Chris Bourke was the last person preselected in Ginninderra for Labor. However, under Labor preselection rules Mr Bourke was guaranteed a spot on the ticket and he was phoning Labor members asking them to vote for others rather than himself.
Prize for Helen
“CITYNEWS” arts editor Helen Musa, pictured, was awarded the media prize in this year’s ACT Multicultural Awards. The other winners were: Premier Capital Properties (Business Enterprise); Health Care Consumers’ Association (Community Organisation); Bunyarra Children’s Centre (Education); Dr Krishna Nadimpalli (Multicultural Advocate of the Year); Jeeven Nadanakumar (Multicultural Young Person of the Year) and Mohammed Ali (Outstanding Volunteer of the Year).
Hope and help
CANBERRA’S Sophie Hope, 23, is one of 22 national youth representatives appointed to the headspace Youth National Reference Group, which helps 12-25-year-olds through a national network of online and telephone counselling services. She will advise headspace on how it can improve its services to young Australians and also spread the word locally that there’s nothing wrong with seeking help when you’re going through a tough time.
Mullah Abbott wags a dangerous finger
I’LL confess, I choked on my Wheaties when I heard Tony Abbott was calling for reformation and revolution in Islam. I choked on those things and spat them across the room.
For a start, there is the question: with what authority does Mullah Abbott speak to Muslim people?
I am more than usually certain he is not a recognised spiritual leader in that faith.
Should a Muslim leader seek to lecture a Christian congregation about, oh, I don’t know, institutional sexual abuse of children say? It’s hard to see how that would go down well.
But the more curious thing is that a conservative Catholic is now in favour of the Reformation, if only as a stick with which to beat Muslims.
The Reformation broke the Catholic Church’s monopoly on faith in Europe. But it did so at a staggering cost in loss of life.
Tens of millions died in a world with a population of around 500 million.
Let’s scale that up to the modern world. A wildly conservative Reformation death toll of 10 million is 2 per cent of 500 million.
The current population of the world is 7.3 billion, of which 2 per cent is 146 million people.
So reforming the Muslim faith with the same death toll as those nice Christians wreaked on each other (with pikes, swords, muskets and smoothbore cannons, no weapons of mass destruction, mind you) would see a death toll exceeding (I’m sorry but this really is the moment for block capitals) TWICE THE DEATH TOLL OF WORLD WAR II.
Completely disregarded by the former Prime Minister is that many scholars actually consider Islam to be in the middle of a reformation that began in the 18th century.
Compared to us Christians, they’re doing a relatively good job of keeping a lid on things. If you think of it that way, the current turmoil begins to make a lot more sense.
One hopes that Mr Abbott has been caught up in the burblings of right-wing think tanks.
A more sinister explanation is that he’s trying to seed talking points to the bigoted wing-nuts of Australia, the ones Cory Bernardi recently described to Annabel Crabb as “whispering Australians”. Whispering because they’re afraid of consequences if reasonable people know what they think.
You can hear them now in their Facebook groups and the comment sections of Andrew Bolt and Piers Akerman.
“Oh, I’m tolerant, but those Muslims have never had a reformation.”
It sounds half smart to someone who doesn’t know much history.
In a world going apparently mad, it’s worth remembering the reported words of Germany’s Iron Chancellor, Otto von Bismarck (all leaders could profit by applying a “What would OvB do?” test): “If Lord Palmerston sends the British army to Germany, I shall have the police arrest them”.
Rather than hectoring all Muslims, it might be better to let the police do their job with the tiny minority.
YOUR NEXT CAREER STEP
ANU Graduate Certificate of Law
Developed for graduates without a law degree, the ANU Graduate Certificate of Law offers:
> a standalone qualification that strengthens your knowledge of the Australian legal system; and > a foundation to apply for the ANU Master of Laws (LLM) and specialise in areas including international, environmental and migration law.
You’ll acquire the skills required for success in an increasingly competitive workplace, including the ability to analyse complex problems, conduct high-level research, and develop legal arguments.
You can complete the ANU Graduate Certificate of Law in six months, with part-time and online options available if you need to balance study with work, family or other commitments.
Once you’ve completed the Graduate Certificate of Law, you can apply to the ANU Master of Laws (LLM) and tailor a program of study to your specific interests, or specialise in:
Environmental Law
Study with some of Australia’s leading environmental and climate lawyers.
Government and Regulation
Develop and apply an advanced understanding of the regulatory state’s legal framework.
International Law
Understand the nature, structure and function of international law.
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Gain in-depth understanding of the legal frameworks that address contemporary and emerging security issues.
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Access first-hand insight on the role of law in social and economic development.
Migration Law
Be part of one
and policy.
At The Illusionists 1903 opening night, Civic At CWB White Christmas Party, Thoroughbred Park
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.
It’s a revolving panel show that brings to the microphone great “CityNews” commentators and 2CC personalities.
Be part of the conversation and call 6255 1206 between 10am and noon.
Claire Corby, Donna Bouma and Caitlin Halliday Anita Krikowa, Karen Coe and Fiona Allardyce
Anna-Kate Visser, Gillian Yeend, Jessica Symonds and Claire Naidu
Byron Carr, Courtney Carr, Alison Lewis and Colin Lewis
Clare Taylor, Matthew Howes and Alessio Marrone
Krystal Jansen and Leigh Pettersen Aron, Lachlan, Aurelia and Narelle Duncan
Laura Burke, Sophie Mahony and Carryn Jack
Andrew Lockie and James Sharrock Ellen Harvey and Lachlan Blackhall
Natasha Roberts and Sarah Jordaan
Mary-Anne Apps and Kate Seselja
Lara Deards, Sarah Coventry and Elysia Beale
Photos by LIAM SMITH
Christmas Services
St Paul’s Anglican Church
Cnr Canberra Avenue and Captain Cook Crescent, Manuka
Thursday 24 December, 2015
6.00pm Children’s Eucharist and Nativity Play
11.30pm Midnight Eucharist
Friday 25 December, 2015
7am Holy Eucharist – Book of Common Prayer
8am Holy Eucharist – A Prayer Book for Australia
10am Sung Eucharist – A Prayer Book for Australia
Friday 25 December, 2015
8.30am Holy Eucharist – A Prayer Book for Australia
St David’s Anglican Church Fortitude Street, Red Hill
Teresita Palomino, Ibelise Escobar and Audrey Fernandez
Carolyn Forster and Filomena Cunha-Alves
Lyndall Sachs and ambassador Adolfo Yllana
Santiago Ballina, Blanca Mejia and Crisoforo Martinez
Hannah and Laura White with Diana and Mark Baxter
Angele Gutierrez, Maria CisnerosDavila and Inge Hammer
Julia Hinch, Guatemalan ambassador Connie Taracena and Paraguayan ambassador Pablo Esteban R Bedoya G
Capt Paolo Vallejo, Veronica Arata, Teresita Palomino, Peruvian ambassador Miguel Palomino de la Gala and Eloisa and Gino Arciniega
Kuwait ambassador Najeeb A Al-Bader and Chilean ambassador Daniel Carvallo
Venezuelan ambassador Nelson Davila, Victor Marillanca and Cuban ambassador José Manuel Galego Montano
Ibelise Escobar and Maria Cisneros-Davila
Venezuelan ambassador Nelson Davila and Brendon Hammer
Photos by ANDREW FINCH
Mexican ambassador Armando Alvarez Reina and wife Gladys Tenorio Galguera
Celebrate New Year’s Eve advertising feature
10, 9, 8, 7, 6… where will you be at midnight?
DON’T leave your New Year’s Eve plans to the last minute, especially when there is such a fabulous choice of venues and experiences able to take your booking now...
End the year with some old-school ‘cool’
WINE lovers will relish the opportunity to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style at the new Canberra Wine House, located at The Tradies at Dickson.
An intimate cocktail party will be held to bring in the New Year, featuring the five-piece band Diversity, gourmet shareplates of local cheese and meats and a candy bar.
Creative business and marketing manager Tanna Winter says that the Canberra Wine House is a unique venue that brings the old-school “cool” of the classic speakeasy to Canberra, with vintage leather couches to relax on and handmade wooden panelling.
“The area has its own private entry and opens out to a newly refurbished outdoor space,” says Tanna.
“We have the largest selection of Canberra wines and only serve regional wines and produce. It’ll be a great night, with great wines and food,” he says.
The Canberra Wine House, 2 Badham St, Dickson, 6162 5656, tickets from thetradies.com.au
Celebration with a charity in mind
KING O’Malley’s New Year’s Eve celebrations have an annual tradition of supporting the Salvation Army, says owner Peter Barclay.
“For 10 years, we have been asking people to make a donation at the door to the Salvos, rather than charging people an entry fee,” says Peter.
“Salvos officers are at the door and collect donations to help those less fortunate. It sends a nice message to people in the city to think of others who need our support.
“We leave it up to our customers to choose to make a donation and how much they give.”
Last year more than $6000 was raised.
King O’Malley’s has a long-standing relationship with the Salvos since opening the pub’s doors in 2000.
King O’Malley’s New Year’s Eve celebrations will feature music by band 4th Degree and promises a relaxing atmosphere in the outdoor beer garden.
“Supporting the Salvos on the night is an easy way to make a donation and it makes people feel great. We want everyone to have a wonderful, safe night,” says Peter.
King O’Malleys, 131 City Walk, Civic.
Ginger goes to Vegas for a fabulous finale to 2015 and a wide warm welcome to our new year!
Celebrate New Year’s Eve
Vegas comes to the ‘top of the town’
ENJOY Canberra’s best view of the city skyline and fireworks displays from the National Arboretum this New Year’s Eve as the team at Ginger Catering presents a “Viva Las Vegas” themed finale to 2015.
“With entertainment by Vegas showgirls, roving performers and a DJ, you can dance the year away,” says Claire Mackay, sales and events manager.
Executive chef Janet Jeffs has developed an innovative threecourse menu with ingredients
sourced from the best of local Canberra region seasonal produce, matched with a premium beverage package.
“If you’re gambling on a great party don’t miss this! Tables are booking fast – don’t miss out on New Year’s Eve at the top of the town!” says Claire.
Venue Village Centre, National Arboretum, Weston Creek, bookings to 6273 4366 or gingercatering.com.au
Dress up for the ball in the hall
IT’S ball gown and dancing shoes at the Canberra Pops Orchestra’s New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball at the Albert Hall.
“Ball in the Hall” promises to be the “not-too-loud” New Year’s Eve celebration and an alternative for those wanting to dance, dress up, enjoy live music, but still have a conversation, says host and MC, Geoff Grey.
“The Albert Hall is renowned for its history of dances and balls, so we felt it fitting to use the hall, as it was designed for this event,” says Geoff.
Elements of the Canberra Pops Orchestra will perform, in a “salon orchestra” arrangement made famous by Strauss, in which the principal violinist leads, says Geoff.
Tor Frømhyr, concertmaster of the Canberra Symphony Orchestra, will be the lead violinist and renowned conductor Ian McLean has put his touches to the orchestra and will be joining the percussion section on the night.
Gifted stride pianist Robbie Mann will also perform fun, ‘20s-style sets, says Geoff.
There will be prizes for the best dressed couple and best Venetian mask, and guests can view the fireworks display from the North Terrace at 9pm and midnight.
“And, of course, we will be playing ‘Auld Lang Syne’ at midnight!” says Geoff.
Bookings to visit ballinthehall.com.au
School’s out for the year and the long, summer holidays beckon. But it’s still a great time to learn new skills for life, be it music, dance, pottery, sport or art.
Here’s a look at some of the best in summer school temptations…
WITH more than 37 years of professional dance experience, founding directors of MAKS Ballet Studios, Matthew and Katherine Shilling, are excited to bring their passion and expertise to Canberra. They have recently returned home after distinguished careers with internationally respected dance companies such as Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, Opera Australia and Sydney Dance Company.
Opening in January, their new school in Mitchell features two purpose-built studios with sprung flooring, full-length mirrors and high ceilings, which is a perfect location for budding ballerinas to cultivate a life-long love of dance, says artistic director, Matthew Shilling.
“Our focus is classical ballet. There are no other schools in Canberra where the teachers bring such wide professional backgrounds and up-to-date industry knowledge,” says Matthew.
“We’ve never lost the simple joy of being a young dancer in a studio, developing technical abilities, honing a craft, exploring personal creative expression while making lifelong friends and having fun,” he says.
MAKS Ballet Studios will run a holiday program from January 18-20 and January 25-27 with a range of classes from preschoolers to teenagers.
MAKS Ballet Studios, maksballet.com.au or call 6154 6492.
SPORT
Programs offer all sorts of sports
THE Australian Institute of Sport has a range of vacation programs and camps, taught by experienced instructors using world-class facilities and equipment.
Assistant director of marketing Craig Fairweather says that kids will have lots of fun and sleep very well after their programs!
The Sports Vacation Program is a general sports camp that can be both indoor or outside, depending on weather and the time of day, says Craig. Along with music and action songs, parachute games, obstacle course and team-building games, the program introduces a variety of sports such as tennis, cricket, T-ball, basketball, netball, soccer, throwing and catching, galloping, leaping and skipping.
“It’s all about inclusion, participation and keeping the kids active,” says Craig.
The AIS Aquatic and Fitness Centre was awarded the 2015 ACT Austswim swim school of the year and will be running its popular Swim Intensive Program. It gives kids the opportunity to swim each day for a week or more, says Craig.
“We find that kids make strong improvements in this program. They love that they have mastered strokes and progressed,” he says.
Tennis and soccer camps are also on offer, focusing on participation and having fun.
For more information and enrolments, visit experienceais.com
JAM IT
PUNK
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS BAND PROGRAM!
lAlways wanted to form a band, but not surel where to start? Meetl lother experienced youngl musicians & jam all week, guided by lprofessional music tutors, as you learn song-writing &lstage craft.l lPerform at CIT Woden,lthen to the crowds of the Multicultural Festival !l
Monday 18 th - Friday 22 nd January 2016
9 am - 4 pm daily • Multicultural Festival gig 13 th Feb 2016
lFor more info & to enrol, contact Music For Canberra on 6182 0030 or l musicforcanberra.org.au /events • info @ musicforcanberra.org.au
school holiday fun
BAND WORKSHOP
Jamming it with young musicians
THIS school holiday, the popular Jam It band workshop will bring young musicians together from January 18-22.
“It is a fantastic chance for young musicians to spend their school holiday meeting other players with similar musical tastes,” says Mieka Vigilante, program co-ordinator for Music for Canberra.
“On the first day, professional tutors gauge students’ skill level and stylistic interests and place similar students in bands.
“From there, participants spend the rest of the week workshopping songs and work on original material if they would like to.
“The Jam It week-long workshop gives participants the chance to meet new friends with similar interests, build self-confidence through group activities and
MAKS
Ballet Studios
public performance, as well as take home images and audio to begin building their music folio.”
At the end of week, performers will present a concert for family and friends at CIT Woden’s performance venue and will have the opportunity to play to the crowds of the National Multicultural Festival in February.
“It’s an impressive venue for your first public gig!” says Mieka.
Music For Canberra is a non-profit community music organisation, bringing musical tuition, workshops and experiences to the community, regardless of age, background or ability level.
For more information and to enrol, visit musicforcanberra.org.au/events
POTTERY
Building a lasting passion for clay
CANBERRA Potters’ Society has been teaching the next generation of potters for 40 years, says director, Richard Thomas.
“Teaching skills to kids can lead to a lasting passion for clay, try it out these holidays, it could be life changing,” he says.
Three-hour and 90-minute classes are available, with the 90-minute classes more suitable for younger children.
Week one classes run from January 11 to January 15 and week two, January 18-22. Week three is “parent/ carer/child week” from Wednesday, January 27 to Friday, January 29 where parents and carers are encour-
aged to enrol in a class with their child.
“Many parents also enrol in a class after seeing the wonderful experience their children have!” says Richard.
“Our adult classes include an intensive introductory three-day class covering all the basics to get you ready for general class enrolment. If you like a bit of history with your pots why not try Medieval Cookware, where you feast off your creations on the last day!”
Canberra Potters’ Society, Watson Arts Centre, Aspinall Street, Watson. Call 6241 7800 or visit canberrapotters.com.au
advertising feature
PAINTING
Art with a medieval touch
LAVENDER Art Studios, located above the Hansel and Gretel Coffee Shop in Phillip, has been offering children and young people holiday art workshops for 18 years.
“We are experts in the delivery of creative arts programs and bring an educative, fun and relaxed approach that will suit any child or young person who is interested in learning professional art techniques in an established and recognised arts practice,” says studio manager, Elita Mackay.
This school holidays, the team at Lavender Art Studios have devised a new program with a medieval theme,
running January 18-22. The Medieval Illumination Art Workshop will use beautified coloured pigments, chrysography application and age-old methods of design, construction and creation.
“We will also offer our specialised drawing, painting, sculpting and printmaking workshops, exploring artistic medieval icons, symbols and meanings,” says Elita.
Lavender Art Studios. Call 6292 6339 or visit lavenderartstudios.com.au
MUSIC SCHOOL
Summer school of music, music, music
FOUR hundred ACT students will have the opportunity to create new musical masterpieces and explore their own creativity by working with musicians from around the world at the Young Music Society’s annual summer school.
Renowned expert educators and musicians will lead a two-week program, January 11-22, for students from kindergarten to year 12. They include Kwartludium (Poland), Tobias Cole (ACT), Foray Ensemble (ACT, Victoria), Gary France and the Groove Warehouse (ACT), Moochers Inc (ACT), Mr Michael (ACT), Pheno (ACT/ NSW), and The String Contingent (NSW/Scotland). Every student will have the opportunity to explore the possibilities of world percussion and the power of
the voice with percussionist Gary France, from Groove Warehouse, and Opera Australia principal artist Tobias Cole.
There is also the chance to learn a new beginner instrument and choose from a wide range of elective classes, as well as participate in multiple public performances during the two weeks including pre-game entertainment at a Canberra Cavalry Baseball match and a whole-school Twilight Spectacular!
At Canberra Grammar School, Red Hill, 9am to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday, January 11-22. Call 6251 8017 or email admin@youngmusicsociety.org.au; website youngmusicsociety.org.au/holiday-programs/summer-school/
AIS Tours
Australia’s premier elite sporting precinct
School holiday fun at the AIS
Keep your kids active over the break by signing them up for our holiday programmes. With a range of fun sporting and fitness activities to choose from, they’ll never be stuck on the couch during the holidays again!
Select from Tennis, Soccer, Sports Vacation, Swim Intensive or Pre‑School Programme
Spaces are limited for all camps and programmes. Fees apply. Bookings are essential.
Go behind the scenes on an award‑winning 90 minute AIS Tour. Run daily from AIS Visitor Centre 10am, 11.30am, 1pm & 2.30pm. Tour costs apply.
AIS Visitor Centre
Everyone’s welcome at the AIS Visitor Centre, purchase exclusive merchandise at the AIS Shop and enjoy great coffee & café style food at GG espresso. Open daily.
AIS Aquatic & Fitness Centre
Get fit like a true champion at the AIS. Dive into our world‑class facility. All visitors are welcome. Fees apply.
Lavender Art Studios’ last holiday program’s acrylic painting workshop for 5-13 years.
Christmas Confidential
What a wheeze
THERE is nothing funny about asthma, but CC thought the National Asthma Council Australia has an odd idea about Christmas if this illustration is any guide… a tree festooned with inhalants including Ventolin and Seretide!
The photo accompanied a perfectly reasonable warning about the vagaries of summer weather on asthmatics, which singled out Christmas trees, saying –real or fake – they can harbour hidden asthma triggers.
“Most people are unaware that Cypress and pine trees produce high amounts of pollen and pollen can trigger hayfever symptoms and asthma, especially when the trees are displayed indoors,” said Kristine Whorlow, council CEO.
“Artificial trees may seem like a safe alternative, but these trees are often used year after year and they can accumulate dust and mould in storage and both of these are common asthma triggers.”
Hmmm, probably a good idea then to keep that puffer handy on the tree!
More information at nationalasthma.org.au
Little lad among the lens
“CAN I bring Elijah to my social and editorial events?“ mused “CityNews” snapper Andrew Finch when he sent through this gorgeous photo of the latest addition to his family, Elijah Logan Finch, (December 8, 3.325kg), firmly snuggled amid the lens of his proud dad’s camera bag.
Christmas in Page
GINNINDERRA Labor MLA Chris Bourke offered this little localhistory insight in a recent electoral missive about the suburb Page, which he says is named after Sir Earle Christmas Grafton Page, PM for only 20 days in April, 1939.
With Christmas in his name
one might imagine a December birthday, but not so, Sir Earle was born in August.
“The Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House suggests it was a nod to his aunt whose married name was Christmas,” says Chris.
All good friends and...
...JOLLY good company. Seasonal goodwill seemed to be bursting out all over as the ACT’s four Federal pollies came cheerfully together for this collector’s item snap.
Senator Zed Seselja, left, Gai Brodtmann MP, Senator Katy Gallagher and Andrew Leigh MP are keen supporters of Red Cross and want us to “reduce, reuse and
recycle”.
Anyway, it’s all a media moment for the newly opened Red Cross shop at Woden Barbara Livesey, who works with the Parliamentary Friends of Red Cross, was moved to say: “Our four parliamentary representatives have set a fine example and I urge others to follow.” What is not entirely clear.
Hmmms...
SPOTTED over the border by our snout Neil… what seems to pass as “businesswear” in the Queanbeyan Target store.
IN reporting the return of Martin Parkinson to the top level of the public service, our snout Pierre the Lair noticed this in “The Canberra Times”: “He was one of three senior public servants – including Don Russell, Blair Comley and Andrew Metcalfe – let go in the early stages...” Which one was Parky, Pierre wonders?
“CITYNEWS” gardening writer Cedric Bryant’s heart missed a beat at the news he’d won a prize in the raffle at the recent Ainslie All Saints Church Christmas fete. Alas, he drew fifth prize – a potted geranium!
ODD, but outstanding… Adore Tea bagged the People’s Choice Award at the ACT Tourism Awards as Canberra’s Favourite Café for its Gold Creek teahouse, a victory made sweeter by the fact the cafe doesn’t serve coffee.
Eerie glow of protest art
By Helen Musa
SOMETHING quite extraordinary has surfaced at the NGA Contemporary space on the lakeside.
“The Last Temptation: the art of Ken + Julia Yonetani” is comprised of chandeliers made from uranium glass that represent nuclear-powered nations and a nine-metre banquet table made entirely of salt, the “installation exhibition”, as they’re calling it, is the first large survey show of Japanese and Australian artist collaborators Ken and Julia Yonetani.
The pair have been collaborating on projects since 2009 and have exhibited at the Venice Biennale in 2009, in the UK, Finland and Germany in 2011-2012, at the Singapore Biennale in 2013 and at the Abbaye de Maubuisson, Paris this year.
This bold and beautiful installation makes for a highly provocative response to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident. Each chandelier is reconfigured to emanate UV light, and is decorated with uranium glass. Aesthetically quite enchanting, it is also easily understood, representing a country that operates nuclear power stations.
Uranium glass contains very small traces of uranium within the glass and poses no health risks.
“You can’t see, smell or perceive radiation with your senses, but it becomes visible in our works when illuminated with ultraviolet lights,” the artists say in explanation.
“Presented in darkness, the glass chandeliers and tubes glow with an eerie bright green light indicating
the presence of radiation. We hope to prompt viewers to react in their own way to this radioactive presence.”
Alongside these opulent chandeliers sits “The Last Supper”, a nine-metre table made of more than a tonne of groundwater salt sourced from the Murray Darling Basin featuring a variety of foodstuffs in the form of a banquet – the Last Supper or the Last Temptation of the title.
“Salt is a metaphor for the death of the land, sacrificed in the production and consumption of what has become The Last Supper,” the artists say.
“The Last Temptation: the art of Ken + Julia Yonetani”, at NGA Contemporary until further notice. Free entry.
arts in the city George has a party going on...
By Helen Musa
GEORGE Huitker and his band, Junk Sculpture, are threatening midnight fireworks and champagne outside the ANU Arts Centre as part of their annual New Year’s Eve party at Teatro Vivaldi, 6.30pm on December 31. The highlight will be their “Rare Christmas Beatles Show” in the adjacent theatre, after an eight-course dinner in Vivaldi’s. Bookings to enquiries@ vivaldirestaurant.com.au or 6257 2718.
WE were tickled pink to hear on Radio National that “chief conductor and artistic director of the Canberra Symphony Orchestra” Nicholas Milton had been nominated for a Grammy. But let’s be clear, the ubiquitous Nick was conducting the pianist Joseph Moog in a Deutsche Radio Philharmonie Saarbrücken Kaiserslautern recording, which has been nominated.
LOCAL playwright and Tempo Theatre member Michael Weston tells us he’s just recorded a short radio series for Tempo to be aired on Radio 1RPH just before Christmas. It’s a serialised version of his play “Cyril the Cherub Saves Christmas”.
FLAMENCO dancer and teacher extraordinaire, Tomás Dietz, is inaugurating Peña Flamenca of Canberra, a flamenco social club filled with music, open to the general public. At Smith’s Alternative, 76 Alinga Street,
Civic, 4pm-6pm, Saturday, December 19. Just turn up, he says.
ALEX Freeman is a Canberra-raised designer of resin jewellery and homewares, sold under her label Polka Luka, who has recently moved back to Canberra from Melbourne. She has a pop-up exhibition of her latest range, “Island”, at The Front Cafe and Gallery in Lyneham, until December 22.
MY annual tip for Christmas gifts is to head to the Canberra Potters’ Christmas Fair, at Watson Arts Centre, Aspinall Street, daily 10am-4pm, until December 23. Local potters and ceramicists have created a selection of ceramic artworks, jewellery, functional and sculptural items.
PLATINUM award-winning vocal group, The Ten Tenors, have emailed us that proceeds from sales of their new Christmas album will go directly to The Children’s Hospital Foundation, a great Christmas gesture. Purchase from childrens.org.au or download worldwide through iTunes.
THE Australian National Botanic Gardens and Friends of the Gardens are seeking expressions of interest from an artist, craftsperson or designer for the design, fabrication, and installation of a treehouse gazebo amid “a magical paperbark grove”. Applications to anbg.gov.au close on Friday, January 15.
of the land.
A nine-metre banquet table made entirely of salt, a metaphor for the death
Big ball in the hall...
By Helen Musa
IT’S been a bumper year for Canberra conductor, percussionist and “CityNews” music critic Ian McLean, with “Mary Poppins” and “Jesus Christ Superstar” behind him.
The same is true for Geoff Grey, who took over the new Canberra Wind Symphony this year while also directing Canberra City Band.
Not bad for two boys who cut their teeth playing in military college bands, each going on to become commander and director of the Royal Military College Band and then assuming leadership roles in the wider world of music.
Now these two busy musicians
cinema
have joined forces to stage a ripsnorting New Year’s Eve party at the Albert Hall, designed to take us back to the great days of social dancing.
While both McLean and Grey would prefer to have a full pops orchestra on stage at the elegant Albert Hall, reality set in when they realised the venerable Albert’s stage was too small and opted for an 18-piece “salon orchestra”.
Grey will put down his baton to take on the role of MC for the night as will McLean, who was having far too much fun drumming that he gratefully handed over to one of the region’s top string players, Tor Frømyhr, who will lead from the violin just in the manner of Johann Strauss, King of the Waltz.
The evening has been conceived as a masquerade-style dance aimed at pleasure and frivolity, from the
moment Robbie Mann sits down to play the grand piano to when the musicians swing into the waltzes and polkas, classic pops music and Viennese waltzes for which they have been chosen.
The musical duo say they have also arranged the music so people will be easily able to converse at the same time as listen.
There’ll be a break at 9pm so guests can enjoy the fireworks from the North Terrace and at midnight, while the band plays “Auld Lang Syne”. “How to dance” cards have been produced and the expectation is that the joint will be jumping – in the most elegant fashion.
Canberra Salon Orchestra New Year’s Eve dinner-dance, Albert Hall, December 31, bookings to ballinthehall.com.au
Inside story of blood and guts
“Inside Men” (MA)
MIN-Ho Woo’s 130-minute drama of high, medium and low corruption in the South Korean government, business, administration, law enforcement and high-end recreational consumption of naked bodies and addictive substances is neither gentle nor genteel.
Watching it in company with six others, clearly Korean because I could hear them following the dialogue and occasionally chuckling, I couldn’t help wondering how the South Korean Ministry of Culture, if such a body exists, views its role as an emissary for the nation’s image. It’s well-spattered with blood and violence. Various whacking and cutting hand tools remove body parts without anti-sepsis or anaesthetic. People get killed for no better reason than that they have failed or botched assignments. They’re the lucky ones. Death’s comfort takes a long while to reach others tied to chairs and brutally beaten. Thank heavens it’s only a movie and the blood’s painted on.
An (Byung-hun Lee) has a prosthetic right hand. He lost the real one after using it to dip into the slush fund of industrialist Jang.
Men”... well-spattered with blood and violence.
Reporter Lee (Yun-shik Baek) and Jang are both allies and enemies.
Former cop turned prosecutor Woo (Seung-oo Cho) needs a big success to advance his career.
Hyphenated (and to us, strange) names such as these get highquality sub-titles to help Anglo viewers keep track of morally-low content and who’s who in a plot that, adapted from a cartoon strip by Tae-Ho Yoon, is devilishly complex.
Think “Casa
At Capitol 6
Geoff Grey… conductor turns MC.
Min-Ho Woo’s staging is high class. The film has a handsome appearance even in passages of gruesome content. The denouement is cynical yet optimis tic.
blanca”.
“Inside
dining Local cookbook with stories to tell
THE most delicious cookbooks aren’t really about recipes. They’re about stories.
That’s so true of the new “Skeehan Brothers Cookbook”, produced by Canberra’s Tom and Dan Skeehan. This story revolves around family and friends who relish experiencing meals together. About a father born in Denver, Colorado, who married a mother from Batemans Bay. About aunties who run a bakery in the US and a grandma who has herself published a cookbook.
Tom and Dan were fortunate to grow up in a family that adored cooking honest food. The book shines with no-frills recipes celebrating quality produce and made with love. You won’t find disclaimers about recipes being “triple tested” or ingredients or techniques requiring you to take a course at a highfalutin cooking school.
The brothers travelled a lot when growing up, including to family in the US, and so the cookbook explores Austral -
ian and American food culture.
“Nan and pop’s farm backs on to the Clyde River, which has the freshest oysters on the south coast,” says Dan, who enjoys slurping them right out of the shell with a bit of fresh lemon juice or a teaspoon of single-malt scotch whisky.
The honest approach also applies to trout caught after six hours of fishing in the Kosciuszko Mountains.
Simple smoking, filling the fish cavity with slices of fresh lemon and lime and topping it off with sliced chilli, dill and lime wedges is the way to go.
The book includes recipes that Dad Skeehan (Vince) has been making for yonks, including for flour tortillas (he whips up 140 in 90 minutes) and tostadas.
“The apple pie recipe was inspired by the beautiful pies our aunties make at their bakery in Pagosa Springs, Colorado,” says Tom, “and the cinnamon rolls recipe is straight from our grandma’s cookbook, injoy.”
The cookbook was about a year in the making and included cataloguing family recipes and documenting the process of cooking. Dan was the head cook and Tom the main photographer. The brothers spent hours cooking, styling and photographing dishes. Family recipes are supplemented by those from friends. Other Canberra friends involved included Bison (tableware) and Inklab (graphic design).
Above: Cookbook authors, brothers Tom, left, and Dan Skeehan.
Photo by Carmen Skeehan
But why create a cookbook? Surely Tom, an award-winning industrial designer at the helm of the studio Skeehan, and Dan, who manages Hippo Bar, have enough on their plate?
The answer is as simple as the recipes themselves. “Because we could,” says Tom. “I just love hanging out with my younger brother and we wanted to do a book.”
And so Tom’s lounge was converted into a studio and his kitchen a pop-up with the brothers tackling about four recipes a week. Then it was time to dish up the final product.
“Skeehan Brothers Cookbook” ($100) is a short-run, self-published cookbook. Orders to info@skeehan.com.au
Caves hold secrets of climate change
CLIMATE change is on everyone’s lips and those possibly affected most are farmers, horticulturists (especially commercial food producers) and gardeners.
We are seeing hotter summers and more storms, but is all this talk of doom and gloom with our climate really happening? Surely, it’s all happened before with, for example, a mini ice-age in the 1500s covering much of northern Europe.
Dr Johanna Speirs is an atmospheric scientist with Snowy Hydro and says understanding the weather in the region helps the company manage the Snowy Hydro Scheme’s water resources.
We are seeing hotter summers and more storms, but is all this talk of doom and gloom with our climate really happening?
Its research partner is the University of Queensland, which works on trends that deliver precipitation to the Snowy Mountains.
The research looks at pre-history, utilising paleoclimate from the Yarrangobilly Caves in the mountains. By analysing stalagmite samples, researchers are able to reconstruct temperature and snow cover at Cabramurra over the last 1000 years.
The reconstructed climate records are showing patterns consistent with current global trends.
The stalagmites have recorded rapid warming and reduced snow cover since about 1960. This is similar to trends elsewhere in Australia.
This year we have already seen record temperatures in Sydney and
the same is predicted for Canberra.
Good snowfall and the resulting melt is extremely important. Water from the Snowy Mountains is vital to the large agricultural areas of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area at Griffith and poor snowfalls could spell a massive disaster if the rivers dried up.
CHRISTMAS is close and with the rush on for last-minute presents, it’s worth remembering your local garden centre. These days they not only sell plants but have a variety of gifts, often costing considerably less than the big shopping centres.
THERE’S nothing worse than being woken from a Sunday
morning sleep-in by the sound of neighbourhood mowers or blower/ vacs. Or enjoying a quiet drink with friends in the cool of the evening when the neighbour’s machines roar into life!
Interestingly, in parts of London, Hampstead Gardens for example, authorities now drop warnings to noisy neighbours into the letterbox; a yellow card or red card for repeat offenders. What a great idea!
Jottings…
• Cut old leaves off polyanthus hit by snails. The new leaves are most probably already appearing.
• Plant lettuce, English spinach, chives and other culinary herbs amongst the flowers and shrubs. They provide added greenery and do not need to take up space in the veggie garden.
• Give your gardening friends a copy of “The Canberra Gardener” for Christmas, written especially for Canberra. Available from most bookshops.
• Electric mowers now account for 75 per cent of sales in the UK.
Madeline Moore
ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)
The feisty Full Moon fires up your domestic zone so additional tact is required early in the week, otherwise you could find yourself smack bang in the middle of a festive family feud on Christmas Day. Emotions are running high and impatience is running low, so choose your words extra carefully. When it comes to Yuletide preparations, everyone wants to be in charge so smart Rams will delegate and let others initiate proceedings and share the load – for a change.
TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)
A strategic approach is the key to successful Christmas preparations. If you plan carefully and prioritise, then you’ll get everything done without too much unnecessary stress. And Xmas Eve looks fabulous, as you party with festive friends and enjoy convivial conversation. But choose your words wisely over Christmas dinner, as the Full Moon fires up your communication zone. If you’re not careful, you’ll blurt out the wrong thing to the wrong person at the wrong time!
GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)
Unpredictable Uranus squares Mercury on Monday, when you’ll be more accidentprone than usual so slow down! Have you still got a heap of Christmas shopping to do? It’s time for gung-ho Geminis to look for gorgeous last-minute gifts that are clever and creative. You love the social side of Yuletide celebrations. Just make sure you’re pulling your weight with festive preparations and cleaning up, otherwise you’ll be in the bad books by Boxing Day.
CANCER (June 22 – July 22)
Clannish Cancer – you’re the keeper of the family flame, so be proactive about gathering loved ones together over the coming week. But there’s no getting away from intense interactions with recalcitrant relatives, as the Full Moon revs up your relationship zone smack bang on Christmas Day! And don’t be bossy and labour under the delusion that you can handle everything on your own. Delegating festive preparations is the secret to a cool Yule for clever Crabs.
LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)
Party-loving Lions are in the mood for some fabulous festive fun, and are likely to overdo the Christmas cheer again – especially eating and drinking. If you pace yourself, then you and your digestive system will enjoy the celebrations even more. You’re also keen to bag some bargains at the post-Christmas sales but with impulsive, extravagant Jupiter charging through your money zone, make sure you stay away from tempting buy now/pay later schemes.
VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)
Uranus squares Mercury (your ruling planet) on Monday, so be very careful what you say. And avoid getting too serious and stressed Virgo – strive to work your way through your large Christmas to-do list one logical step at a time. But if you expect family members to be practical and punctual on Christmas Day, then you’ll be sadly disappointed. There’s unpredictable Full Moon energy about, so drop the strict schedule and just take things as they come.
LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)
Librans love the festive season because it combines your two passions – shopping and socialising. So it’s the perfect time to finalise last minute purchases and party to the max! But when buying presents and attending post-Christmas sales, make sure you stay within your budget. You’re in the spotlight on Christmas Day, as the Full Moon revs up your reputation zone. Whatever you do, others will be watching – so make sure you handle yourself with typical impeccable aplomb.
SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)
With Saturn in your money zone, if you spend more than you can comfortably afford this Christmas, you’ll just end up with a heap of New Year debt. You don’t have to go overboard in order to have a good time. But you will need to be extra diplomatic with relatives if you want to avoid a fraction too much friction on Christmas Day. Under the glare of the Full Moon, everyone’s patience will be wearing thin, so tread carefully. When in doubt, just keep calm and carry on!
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)
The festive Full Moon boosts your holiday spirits and your spontaneous spending gene. Strive to be responsible with cash and credit – and don’t let a persistent child, teenager or friend talk you into buying something you really can’t afford. And you may have trouble getting started on Boxing Day, as your body reacts to all the food and drink you consumed so enthusiastically on Christmas Day. Simple meals in small amounts is the sensible way to go.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)
Keep things in perspective this Christmas. If you prioritise tasks and pace yourself, then you’ll get things done without having a Capricorn brain snap! When it comes to loved ones, expect the unexpected. Whatever you think they will do, they are likely to turn around and do or say the complete opposite. So your motto for the moment is from Quentin Crisp (born on Christmas Day): “Treat all disasters as if they were trivialities, but never treat a triviality as if it were a disaster.”
AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)
You’re in a fabulously festive mood, as you let your hair down and enjoy the Yuletide celebrations. For restless Aquarians, variety is the spice of life so the stars encourage you to balance being social with some quiet solo time where you can reflect on your goals and dreams for 2016. And avoid being a reckless Aquarian on Christmas Day. The Full Moon increases your unpredictable side, so try to relax and calm down or you’ll be worn out before dinner is on the table!
PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)
The full moonbeams power up your peer group zone, so it’s the perfect week to enjoy Yuletide celebrations with close friends. As birthday great Marlene Dietrich declared: “It’s the friends you can call up at four am that matter.” The Full Moon heightens intuition and compassion on Xmas Day – but it also encourages megaemotional meltdowns so proceed with plenty of caution Pisces. When it comes to last minute gift shopping, look for presents that are fun and festive.
Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2015 Daily astrology updates at twitter.com/JoMadelineMoore
General knowledge crossword No. 531
Kathy and Ross are planning to retire soon. They are both in PSS and share a small self managed superannuation fund (SMSF).
“We have been asked if we want our pensions to be reversionary and we are not sure what that means,” they said when they came to see me.
I told them it was good that they were seeking advice before they retired. “A reversionary pension is a pension that reverts to a beneficiary on the death of the member,” I told them.
Across
1 Name the Victorian premier who was returned for a 3rd term in November 2006, Stephen ...
8 Which spider constructs silk-lined tunnels in the ground?
9 Name another term for the acacia tree.
10 Which African republic was formerly called Abyssinia?
11 What was the artistic occupation of Albrecht Durer?
12 Name the capital of Fiji.
13 What is a subterranean vault, used as a burial place, etc?
16 Name the head of the Soviet government from 1917 to 1924, Vladimir ...
19 Who discovered silver at Broken Hill NSW in 1883, Charles ...?
21 What is an arched, roofed-in gallery?
22 Name the device used for heating a room.
23 To which animal group does a centipede belong?
24 Name another term for bouts of otalgia.
25 To disturb persistently, is to do what? Down
2 Which nuclear device is used for the generation of power, etc?
3 To become level with, is to do what (5,2)?
4 What are oxen also known as?
5 Which type of illusion is sleight of hand?
6 Name a cetacean, commonly called a porpoise.
7 What is a breach of faith, or treachery?
13 Name the son of Queen Elizabeth II.
14 From which part of a ship did they once hang miscreants?
15 Name the activity of staying away from school without permission.
17 What might we call one who pardons or forgives?
18 What are guiding principles also known as?
20 Name an ecclesiastical district having its own church and clergyman.
“After death, that pension will continue to be paid to your surviving spouse. At present you both have pensions in PSS, which are reversionary pensions.
“On the death of one of you, a percentage of the pension, usually about five eighths will continue to be paid to your spouse.
“This contrasts with a non-reversionary pension where the pension ceases on death. The benefit standing to the deceased member’s account is then paid out to the reversionary beneficiary. It can be paid out of the superannuation fund as either a lump sum or a pension and if it is paid as a pension it will have the same components as the original pension.
“In your self managed fund it has to leave the account of the deceased member in the fund and be transferred to the account of the surviving member or to a different fund.
“In the case of the reversionary pension, on the death of a member the pension continues to be paid to the surviving nominated member. In subsequent years the pension may need to increase depending on the age of the reversionary beneficiary as the minimum amount to be withdrawn increases over time based on the scale provided in the legislation.”
Kathy said she hadn’t realised any of this, but where to next?
“You can’t have a reversionary pension unless you have a pension in the first place,” I said.
“So as a precaution, while you are still in the accumulation phase in your SMSF I would recommend you put a binding death benefit nomination (BDBN) in place.
“There are two types, a lapsing BDBN and a non-lapsing BDBN. The lapsing BDBN has to be renewed every three years and the other BDBN remains in place until it is revoked. So if anything happens before you start drawing a pension having a nonlapsing BDBN in place is very important.
“I should also remind you that on death your superannuation balance is separate to your will. You can state that the terms of your will do apply in your non-lapsing BDBN. Legally, it is up to the trustees of your SMSF to determine who gets paid the benefit. So it can be very awkward if no instructions exist.
“I would suggest that the decision about whether or not the pensions are reversionary can be decided when the pensions commence, but the BDBN should be effected now.”
If you need advice about your SMSF contact the friendly team at Gail Freeman & Co Pty Ltd.
