160505 citynews

That sinking, submarine feeling

JOHN GRIFFITHS

Our land is girt by… politicians

ROBERT MACKLIN

Budget’s big lie of thinking small

MICHAEL MOORE The passion to plant

CEDRIC BRYANT

Well written, well read

VOTING RULES HAVE CHANGED? DID YOU KNOW

Make your vote count this federal election.

At this year’s federal election, the way you vote for the Senate has changed and it’s important that you understand how to vote correctly.

On the large white Senate ballot paper, you can choose to vote either above or below the line.

If you choose to vote above the line, you now need to number at least 6 boxes. Put the number ‘1’ in the box for the party or group that is your first choice, a ‘2’ for your second choice and so on until you’ve numbered at least 6 boxes.

If you choose to vote below the line, you must number at least 12 boxes, from 1 to 12, for individual candidates in the order of your choice.

Voting for the House of Representatives has not changed. On the green ballot paper, you must number every box, starting with the number ‘1’ for your first choice, ‘2’ for your second choice and so on until you have numbered every box.

‘How to vote’ instructions will be clearly displayed on your ballot paper. Don’t worry if you make a mistake — just ask for another ballot paper.

cover

/ Mother’s Day Classic

Rain, hail or shine, Lauren can’t stop

By Bina Brown

LAUREN Couter has run the Mother’s Day Classic pregnant, pushing a pram, pregnant and pushing a pram, with her mum and grandmother and with friends.

The 38-year-old veteran of what is now the largest fundraiser for breast cancer research is Canberra’s inaugural Classic Champion for her fundraising efforts which exceed $50,000 since the event started in the nation’s capital 10 years ago.

Couter, a project manager at one of Canberra’s largest project management firms, Construction Control, says it’s purely by chance that the event is now an annual fixture in her life and a chance to make a difference.

“A friend from Construction Control and I ran the four kilometres in the Mother’s Day Classic out at Dairy Flat 10 years ago. We asked around and raised $1000 and thought: ‘Wow, this really means something’,” says Couter.

“The next year we put in some effort to training and fundraising. Construction Control was a major sponsor and we were the highest fundraisers in the ACT. It has snowballed from there,” she says.

What Couter has noticed every year in the lead up to the event is just how

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prevalent breast cancer is and how many lives are affected.

“When I talk to the subcontractors and tradies on site they tell me how their wives or sisters or mothers have breast cancer. The wives of two out of three directors of Construction Control have had breast cancer. You don’t have to look far and someone knows someone. It has affected them all and I realise how lucky I am and that, for not much effort, I can do something,” says Couter.

Couter has run the event in rain, hail and shine, usually with her mother Robyn Logan, who this year will be travelling.

With no connection to social media, her fundraising efforts are generally via direct email or face to face.

“I’ll take the $5, $20 or $10,000 cheque,” says Couter who is already in training for the 10-kilometre run on May 8.

What started as a way to honour those affected by breast cancer and to support research into the disease has grown into Australia’s largest breast cancer fundraiser involving more than 130,000 participants around the country raising money for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

So far the MDC has raised $27.4 million and funded more than 30 projects.

this year we have set a new target to provide $4 million for the National Breast Cancer Foundation to fund lifechanging breast cancer research.

“Our support helps the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) with the ultimate goal of no more deaths from breast cancer. NBCF funds life-changing research including better diagnosis and treatment options and improved quality of life after treatment.

“Mother’s Day Classic participants can be confident that 100 per cent of fundraising from the event goes straight to NBCF – there’s not many charity events that can say that.

“You don’t have to be super-fit! More than half our participants walk with family and friends. With family discounts and family-friendly activities on the day, Mother’s Day Classic is a great way to start a special day of celebration with your whole family.”

WHEN IT MATTERS

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Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in Australia.

One in eight Australian women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.

Since Women in Super initiated the event in 1998, five-year survival rates for women diagnosed with breast cancer have been increasing, and now stand at 89 per cent of those diagnosed.

briefly Garage sale

CHARITY group Opportunity To Do is staging its last garage sale until after winter to help raise the final funds needed to support CARE Australia’s water and sanitation program in Zimbabwe.

Organisers are promising bargains on baby/kids’ clothes, toys, household items, brica-brac, books, DVDs, kitchenware and more. It’s at 5 O’Grady Place, Wanniassa, 8am-noon, on Saturday, May 14.

“Mother’s Day Classic is not about breaking speed records. Our focus is on participation, whether you walk, run or volunteer. Many people have fun dressing up: you’ll see everything from pink pirates to teams in tutus,” says Mother’s Day Classic CEO Sharon Morris.

“It is also about fundraising and

Couter has set a personal fundraising target this year of $15,000. She is running in memory of all the men and women connected to the construction industry who have been affected by breast cancer.

Register for the event at mothersdayclassic.com.au/register; put together a team, mothersdayclassic.com.au/teams or to volunteer, mothersdayclassic.com. au/volunteer

Our land is girt by… costly political defenders

DEFENDING Australia’s shores was the name of the political game this past week, and it came at quite a cost.

The $50 billion for 12 Shortfin Barracuda submarines would not only repel the ravening hordes, according to PM Malcolm Turnbull, it signalled “a great day for the jobs of the future”.

Cynics might suggest that the six most welcome of those jobs belonged to Industry Minister Christopher Pyne and his SA Liberal colleagues in the coming election. Certainly it put a beaming smile on Christopher’s face; and Malcolm’s enthusiasm had absolutely nothing to do with the contract going to the French instead of Tony Abbott’s much preferred Japanese. Oh, perish the thought.

THE other stout defender of our precious coastline was Immigration Minister Peter Dutton who stood firm as a rock against our 850 fearsome seekers now illegally on Manus

Malcolm’s enthusiasm had absolutely nothing to do with the submarine contract going to the French instead of Tony Abbott’s much preferred Japanese. Oh, perish the thought.

Island. And they couldn’t even go to NZ lest the people smugglers hear about it.

The cost to Australia’s international reputation notwithstanding, Peter (and Malcolm and, yes, Bill, too) would decide, in John Howard’s immortal phrase, “who comes to this country and the manner in which they come”. And, said Malcolm: “There’s no place for the misty-eyed”.

SPEAKING of John Howard, the man himself emerged from the mists of time in one of the more extraordinary gatherings of political leaders to recall the murder of 35 men, women and children by a madman 20 years ago. And all were reminded of that other act of courageous Howard statesmanship when he cracked down on gun ownership when only 96 per cent of Australians were in favour.

ON the other hand, we actually forced another group – of Norfolk Islanders – to become fully-fledged Australians when about half their number much preferred to

remain “independent”.

Those were the descendants of the murderous crew of the “Bounty” – and their equally lethal Tahitian paramours – who have been living off the Australian taxpayer since 1901.

The other islanders are desperate for the change that will finally see this crucible of Australia’s penal history made a viable tourist venue… despite the pompous pronouncements of the mutineers’ mouthpiece, the ineffably pretentious Geoffrey Robertson (Declaration of interest: my book, “Dark Paradise – Norfolk Island Isolation, Savagery, Mystery and Murder”, Hachette 2013).

THE redevelopment of Manuka Oval and village found yet another opponent in the Greens’ Shane Rattenbury who this week advised CM Andrew Barr to “start again with a master plan and a community group to decide what’s best for the site”. And why not? Shane’s last major “advice”, we’re reliably informed, was the Gungahlin tram.

ROBERT MACKLIN

WE can’t let Mark Scott’s stint as ABC managing director pass without the warmest congrats on a job well done. Commercial news networks might chastise him for giving away “their” product for free. Truth is, they aren’t in the same race as Aunty. It’s ABC first, daylight second.

HOWEVER, in these days of coral bleaching

and rising seas, Aunty’s weather reporters – and those of the commercial channels everywhere – really should think again about the way they delight in “the lovely warm weather” of this record breaking autumn. It’s a little like Mrs Noah welcoming “a nice drop of rain for the tomatoes”.

robert@robertmacklin.com

50 years on, still stepping out

Kate Meikle reports

ON June 12, the ACT Walkers Club is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its major annual racewalking event, the Lake Burley Griffin Walking Carnival, known as the “LBG” which started in 1967 as a 20-mile (32kms) competition race walk.

One of the competitors in the first event was 73-year-old Robin Whyte, who hasn’t missed the chance to stride out and racewalk twice around Lake Burley Griffin every year since.

Although racewalking is a foot race, it’s different from running in that one foot must appear to be in contact with the ground at all times.

Robin says that racewalking is an easy sport to pick up and has so many benefits for health. After moving to Canberra from Perth in 1962, he fell into the sport and hasn’t looked back.

“I have enjoyed that walking has been an injury-free experience for me,” he says.

In addition to the annual LBG carnival, Robin used to walk from Parkes to Belconnen most mornings during his working life. Now, he walks three times a week with the walking club.

He admits that racewalking has a very distinctive physicality to it and that some people find it hard not to break into a jog.

“You must maintain contact with the ground at all times,” says Robin.

“When you want to go faster, you must stride out and use your hips to do that!”

Attracting competitors from interstate and overseas, the LBG welcomes fitness

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walkers, and has divisions ranging from children to seniors, competing in races ranging from two to 32kms.

Event co-ordinator Geoff Barker says that he came to walking 10 years ago as a “broken-down runner” after his knee gave way from the impact of running.

He says he expects 200-300 walkers for the 50th anniversary carnival, despite Olympians, including ACT walker Brendan Reading, unable to participate this year due to their preparations for the Rio games.

Geoff encourages fitness and racewalkers of all abilities to come along and be part of the celebratory walk.

If you care about your Canberra club, search Your Canberra Clubs on Facebook or visit yourcanberraclubs.com.au to register your support.

lowbrow / new submarines

That sinking feeling

To the outside observer it looks like… they’ve gone for the design that doesn’t disappoint anyone, because it doesn’t actually exist, and cannot exist.

The announcement last week that a French bid had won the biggest defence contract in the world in 2016, Australia’s own selection of a submarine contractor for a new fleet of 12 boats, came as a bit of a surprise.

Most of the chatter had been around the Japanese bid, which uniquely was based on an actual successful class of well regarded operational submarines, or the Germans who were promising to transplant badly needed 21st century industrial manufacturing to Australia to build their design.

The first distant alarm bell is that the winner, DCNS and its subsidiary Thales have been caught up in corruption scandals around the globe. This made the ABC’s reports that Defence Minister Marise Payne’s partner and NSW Trade Minister, Stuart Ayres, had been in France trying to organise his own meetings with the company eyebrow raising. Of course, we assume this is merely an unfortunate look.

Of more concern is that the winning design, the “Barracuda Shortfin” doesn’t exist. Prime Minister Turnbull admitted as much on the “7.30” TV program. Let’s go to the transcript:

“Well, Leigh, the submarine has not yet been designed, so it is – we are working with the French as a design partner. It is going to be based on their latest submarine, their Barracuda submarine, but it is going to be an Australian-French partnership to design a new submarine.”

So what is the Barracuda? Turning to Wikipedia it’s a 4765-tonne nuclear submarine. Design work started in 1998, construction on the first one began in 2007 and,

extremely concerningly, it’s still not finished.

For reference, the Collins Class when they entered service were the biggest conventional (that is nonnuclear) submarines in the world and weigh in at a comparatively tiny 3100 tonnes.

For more comparison, the biggest conventional submarine in the world is the experimental Chinese Type 032, of which only one has been built, which is still small by comparison at 3797 tonnes, nearly 1000 tonnes less than the unfinished Barracuda.

The problem appears to be that, as always, we want the moon on a stick. Other navies have similar requirements to ours, and when faced with them they turn to nuclear power.

Nukes are expensive and complicated and even a bit noisy (due to coolant pumps), but they provide lots of power for a long time and, crucially, don’t need to breathe air to generate power like a diesel engine does. Air is in short supply 300 metres under the waves.

It gets better, turning to page 91 of the 2016 Defence White Paper we find the requirements for this submarine:

“The key strategic requirements for the future submarines include a range and endurance similar to the Collins Class submarine, sensor performance and stealth characteristics which are superior to the Collins Class, and upgraded versions of the AN/BYG-1 combat

THE submarines have been the subject of incidents and technical problems since the design phase, including accusations of foul play and bias during the design selection, improper handling of design changes during construction, major capability deficiencies in the first submarines, and ongoing technical problems throughout the early life of the class.”

– Wikipedia on the Collins Class submarines

system and Mark 48 MOD 7 heavyweight torpedo jointly developed between the US and Australia as the preferred combat system and main armament.”

The range and endurance requirements are what’s driving us to the behemoth size of the design. But the armament is problematic for the French design as news.com.au’s breathless reporting put it:

“Weaponry can include F21 torpedoes fired from eight tubes, Exocet anti-shipping missiles, SCALP Cruise missiles, A3SM antihelicopter missiles and sea mines.” So it’s designed for French weaponry we don’t actually have.

One hopes the process has, as promised, been driven by steely eyed paragons of competence.

But to the outside observer it looks like a whole bunch of contending interests have stuck their two bob’s worth in (Faster! Shootier! Stealthier! Better sensors! More frogmen! More range!) and they’ve gone for the design that doesn’t disappoint anyone, because it doesn’t actually exist, and cannot exist.

One has to pity the poor Japanese, who foolishly sent a real working submarine for evaluation, with all the real compromises of a completed and functioning design.

And for today’s decision makers what’s the risk? They’ll all be long retired when these chickens come home to roost.

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

JOHN GRIFFITHS

sport / brumbies in turmoil

Crisis takes toll on rugby

IT’S hard to imagine how the now-ended saga at the Brumbies would not have affected the club’s image and brand.

The management dispute had virtually taken over most discussions about the Brumbies. At Canberra Stadium for the game against the Crusaders I talked with many rugby fans, as I do at all Brumbies’ home games. This time though, not once was the question about the team’s on-field prospects raised. It was entirely about the off-field drama. It was the same at the State of the Union lunch.

For years the rugby community outside Canberra has looked upon the ACT with fascination. The Brumbies, Australia’s most successful Super Rugby side, has been viewed as unique, almost insular, with the city very protective of the team and its players.

It has been portrayed as “us against them” with a certain amount of justification as the history of the Brumbies saw them utilising players not wanted by other provinces, alongside locally bred players looking for an opportunity.

What materialised was a team the city embraced because of their carefree nature. The Brumbies’ players had a say in the running of the organisation, which was previously unheard of, and success followed. They appeared to enjoy playing together; it wasn’t a job, it was an expression of joy to be part of this team.

At times it has become a point of difference with teams such as NSW and Queensland, who saw themselves as

superior because of their long history in the game. There was a perception that things were done differently in Canberra.

This current saga has played straight into these perceptions with those who looked upon the Brumbies as the rugby equivalent of “Dodge City” feeling justified in their initial judgement of the rugby community in Canberra.

Issues over the years, such as the incident in Capetown and the sacking of David Nucifora, solidified in the minds of many a sense of lawlessness even though the dramas were in reality no different to those that have happened elsewhere outside the ACT over the years. They will see this current drama as cream on the top, just another episode in Canberra.

Another concern is the impact that it has had on the entire code in Canberra, with the saga enveloping everything else in rugby.

To suggest that there is no division within the ACT Rugby community is wrong. I would go as far as to suggest that divide has never been greater as people take opposing points of view.

The longer this dragged on the greater irreparable damage it did to rugby in the ACT to the delight of many outside Canberra who have, in the past and even to this day, looked upon the Brumbies with envy.

TIM GAVEL

Walkers tripped by ‘discrimination’

MORE than 600 walkers from Australia and overseas participated in the Canberra Walking Festival on April 1 to 3.

Before 2016, this annual walk, known as the Canberra Two-Day Walk, had been operating successfully for 24 years, with past walkers proudly showing off their medals and yearly pins that they had earned in previous years.

This year, new organisers opted for a change in the award procedures. However, in their enthusiasm for change – or for economic reasons – they decided that they would not send out reminders, entry forms or Walk details to previous participants by Australia Post (as had been the case for years), but only provide such information to previous walkers whose names were already on their email address database.

As a result, many walkers who had not provided their email address in the past were totally ignored and left to obtain the necessary information by whatever means possible.

There was considerable muttering during the course of the walk, including from at least one participant who was walking for the 25th time.

Otherwise the CSIRO will be able to profiteer as much as it likes while citizens of the ACT are left to pick up the infrastructure bill.

Kim Fischer, ACT Labor Candidate for Ginninderra

Spirit of the trees

FURTHER to Cedric Bryant’s timely piece “Time to stand up for our neglected street trees” (CN, April 14).

Don’t the American Indians believe that within each and every tree is a spirit and before one can be cut down a worthwhile reason has to be given to this spirit and respectfully ask for permission. It is to your peril if you fail to do so!

Okay, a bit over the top for some of us, but we could well give it a try.

A lot more good decisions about our trees would be made, I’m sure.

Suzanne Mitchell, Lyneham

Poor tree choices

NATURE strip trees should be selected with careful consideration.

According to recent reports, there are more than four million Australians who do not have internet access or email, mostly the poor, the old and indigenous Australians.

This is yet another example of discrimination against ordinary people who cannot or do not wish to join the internet fraternity.

We can only hope that next year’s Walking Festival organisers are better prepared than this year’s.

M. McGregor, Curtin

Jon should know

JON Stanhope says” “I often wonder what people so involved [in offshore detention] think about what is being asked of them. Do they ever fear, as I do… that their involvement would make them ‘complicit in a system that is unfair and inhumane?” (“Stand firm and fight for asylum-seeker rights”, CN News, April 7).

As the administrator (or “Commonwealth representative”) of Christmas Island from 2012-2014 Jon Stanhope is surely uniquely placed to answer his own question.

Michael Eburn, Cook

‘Disingenuous’ CSIRO plan

THE CSIRO needs to develop its Ginninderra field station to fill a hole in its budget. Its “think tank” about affordable housing is canny but disingenuous.

The ACT government and electors have no control over development on a site five times the size of Spence.

The CSIRO can only pursue its plans because the site is “National Land”, not “Territory Land”.

The Federal Government should declare the site to be Territory Land before any rezoning by the NCA.

There are hundreds of species well suited to our Canberra climate yet, as we drive around our suburbs, we see the very poor choices made previously.

Excusable 50, 40 or even 30 years ago to have planted natives and other evergreens that block the winter sun from our houses but today, when the advantages of deciduous trees are well understood (not to mention their beauty in autumn), I have to question the decision to replace dying or dead (unsuitable) trees with the same.

Surely an opportunity for improvement is being missed.

Kit Huang, Yarralumla

Greatest Shave says thanks

ON behalf of the Leukaemia Foundation, I would like to thank the community for their active participation and support of the World’s Greatest Shave 2016.

Each year, the foundation supports thousands of people and their families by providing practical services at no cost. These services include: information, emotional support, transport and accommodation for regional families required to relocate closer to metropolitan treatment centres. We also invest millions of dollars each year into vital research to improve treatments and find cures for blood cancer.

Thanks to all of our supporters, we are only $40,000 away from reaching our goal of $450,000 in the ACT. There is still time to make a donation to help us reach this milestone at worldsgreatestshave.com.au

Christine McMillan, general manager, Leukaemia Foundation NSW and ACT

‘Hearing

The big lie of thinking small

TREASURER Scott Morrison and other conservatives would love us to believe that they are much better Budget managers than the Labor alternative. The trouble is that the evidence does not bear out such claims.

The current Budget relies on the sort of windfall gains that kept the Howard government afloat while then-Treasurer

Peter Costello managed considerable tax breaks and extensively increased Federal expenditure. The Labor government of Kevin Rudd handled the Global Financial Crisis by deploying government spending to successfully maintain a vibrant Australian economy.

A windfall increase in commodity prices has come at a time to provide the sort of picture that Morrison needs to present a “steady-hand-on-the-tiller” Budget.

By April’s end, the price of oil was poised for its biggest monthly gain in seven years and in recent weeks, the price of iron ore has doubled, from the $US50 a tonne prediction of Macquarie Bank to an actual price of almost $US70.

The Treasurer can rely on such figures to give a strong forecast for the coming years. After all, in political terms, the forecast has only to last until early July to get the government re-elected.

The alternative is set out dramatically by blogger Peter Switzer who says: “Poor Chinese data, falling commodity prices, a slumping dollar, a capitulating stock market and a run of uninspiring economic readings on our economy” is likely to ensure a Bill Shorten government.

The Liberals continue to perpetuate the myth that cutting taxation builds the economy and the trickle-down effect means that everyone’s a winner. Nonsense!

grumpy

The Liberals continue to perpetuate the myth that cutting taxation builds the economy and the trickle-down effect means that everyone’s a winner. Nonsense!

Ian McAuley, lecturer in public sector finance at the University of Canberra, writing with Miriam Lyons in “Governomics: Can we afford small government?” suggests that “what counts in economic performance is not the size of government but, rather, its quality – the capacity of public agencies to operate with efficiency and responsiveness where markets fail”.

Writing in “The Conversation”, McAuley pointed out “in comparison with other prosperous developed countries, Australia is a country of low taxes and small government”.

Of the 18 most prosperous OECD countries only the US and Switzerland are lower taxing than Australia.

In Canberra, where Joe Hockey’s slashing of the Federal bureaucracy cut deeply into the community wellbeing, the impact of “small government” thinking ought to be challenged.

John Daley, of the Grattan Institute, says: “Smaller government is unlikely to solve Australia’s budgetary problems. Across the OECD, there is no obvious relationship between size of government and size of government deficits”.

The Greens should not be ignored.

Federal leader Richard Di Natale has recently taken a page from President Obama’s book in calling for the “Buffett Rule”. If adopted, all taxpayers earning a gross income of more than $300,000 will be required to pay a minimum of 35 per

Not what y’know?

Reader M McGregor, of Curtin, is grumpy about a verbal virus that’s on the rise

I’M grumpy. Y’know why?

Because there’s nothing worse than bastardisation of the English language, especially when it’s happening right under our noses and no one is taking any notice. About a year ago, you’d hear the odd person slipping the occasional “y’know?” or two in the course of their discussion. Usually, the radio personality would avoid the expression. That was then.

Around this time the Ebola virus was commanding considerable attention throughout the world. But there was another virus waiting in the wings and it was about to go “viral”; the “y’know?” virus.

As casual use of this expression became more and more blatant, even on television, you’d hear sports personalities, members of the public, footballers and the man in the street using “y’know?” more and more, often several times in

the one sentence! TV presenters seemed to be immune at first. Then came the explosion.

Almost everyone began to catch the virus, not just the hoi polloi but also members of parliament, visiting dignitaries and overseas rulers; it seemed inescapable. The more you listened for it, the more you heard it. It began to be accepted into everyday conversation!

Now it’s everywhere. You can’t listen to TV or radio without hearing it over and over again. You can’t even hold a conversation with family members without hearing it. Is there a solution? Maybe we could place a “charity cup” on the table with a fine of 20 cents each time someone says it – at least that way someone might benefit.

Y’know the worst thing about it? It’s so damn addictive, y’know?

Grumpy is an occasional column dedicated purely to things that get up your nose. Readers are invited to vent (no more than 300 words, please) at editor@citynews.com.au

cent of their earnings in tax.

In 2015, according to the Senator, “56 people who earned a collective $129 million paid no tax, not a single cent, but spent $47 million on tax advice”, adding that, “meanwhile, Australians are being told to tighten their belts while the government rips $80 billion from our schools and hospitals”.

The response from the government on the $80 billion is that “it was never in the forward estimates” and should not be counted. What puts the lie to their rhetoric is the announcement in February of $29.9 billion in additional spending over the next 10 years, bringing the total Defence budget to 2 per cent of GDP by 2023. They can’t have the pudding and eat it, too!

A Budget within the context of an election should be the hallmark of a government that’s in control, is making things happen and is building a better community. It is now up to the electorate to decide, within this context, whether or not this Budget really is a success.

Michael Moore was an independent member of the ACT Legislative Assembly (1989 to 2001) and was minister for health

BY DR. VASS

I have been practising as an audiologist for over 37 years and I have never had two patients deal with their hearing loss in the same way. Hearing loss affects not only the ability to hear but also has a deep emotional impact. The loss of an individual’s hearing tends to have a ripple effect that begins with the person suffering the hearing loss and slowly spreads to family and loved ones.

Like any loss there is a grief process and it is important to recognise and allow time for this process. People experience a vast range of emotions during this time and it is important understand that this problem is not fixed by giving an individual a hearing aid and sending them on their way. A hearing aid is a part of the solution but I strongly believe that the best approach is a holistic one.

Individual’s and their families need a supportive environment and professional advice to help adjust and cope with the loss they are faced with.

Being an independent audiologist enables me to work with a wide range of hearing devices and solutions. Building a strong rapport with my patients and listening to their individual needs and lifestyle is another important tool in working together on positive outcomes. A few things to remember if you or a loved one are suffering from hearing loss;

• Seek professional help: Talk to your family doctor or audiologist about what you are experiencing, it is important to take into consideration not just the fact that you aren’t hearing well or you have noticed a change in a loved-ones hearing range. Feelings of depression and helplessness are common during this time and are equally important.

• Remember you are not alone. Hearing loss can make you feel very isolated for many different reasons, not only are you not hearing what others are saying as clearly, but you are suffering emotionally. There are local support groups for people suffering hearing loss and the more you share your experience often helps others to support you.

• It is important to also recognise that it there is an adjustment period, finding solutions that work for you can take time. Finding a professional who takes the time to work with you and continues to try new solutions is vital.

ACT Law Week / May 16-21

The week to discover why the ‘law is for all’

ACT Law Week is the biggest event on the Canberra legal calendar, bringing the legal community together for a week of lectures, forums, tours and social events.

Its goal is to promote public understanding of the law and its role in society. This year’s theme of Law Week is ‘‘Law For All” and several events have taken this theme as a basis to talk about issues such as access to justice and appropriate funding for legal services.

President of the ACT Law Society, Martin Hockridge says: “The ACT Law Society coordinates Law Week in the ACT every year as part of a national campaign, and this year with the theme ‘Law For All’ we are highlighting several important issues, including access to justice and appropriate funding for the legal assistance sector.

“We encourage members of the ACT legal profession and the wider Canberra community to take part in the many events on offer,” he says.

Law Week events include people from diverse backgrounds, organisations and perspectives. The wider Canberra community is invited to attend Law Week events, which include public lectures such as the annual Sir Richard Blackburn Lecture, free will-awareness talks and wills day, and tours of the ACT Supreme Court.

“We are very pleased to have a broad range of speaking events this year. In particular we are honoured that Deputy Chief Justice John Faulks of the Family Court of Australia will deliver the 31st Annual Blackburn Lecture, and LGBTI advocate Cate MacGregor AM will be the guest speaker at the Law Week Dinner,” says Martin.

Family Lawyers at their best

“We are also presenting a series of seminars on current issues, including the impact of the new Mental Health Act, and twelve years of the Human Rights Act, as well as a thought-provoking seminar on the status of animals under ACT law,” he says.

Martin also encourages members of the public to access free advice on wills as part of Law Week.

“Many people either don’t realise how important it is to have a will, or they think they can leave it ‘until later’,” he says.

“But the fact is that ‘until later’ can easily turn into ‘too late’. Everyone should have a will, particularly if you have a family or other dependants, and especially if you are a separated or unmarried parent.”

Law Week is this year supporting Communities@ Work’s Food Rescue service, which saves surplus from food businesses that would otherwise go to landfill, providing food to support the most vulnerable and disadvantaged members of our community.

ACT Law Week is co-ordinated by the ACT Law Society, in conjunction with the ACT Bar Association, the ACT Director of Public Prosecutions, the ACT Human Rights Commission, the ACT Supreme Court, the “Alternative Law Journal”, the Animal Defenders Office ACT, Canberra Community Law, Legal Aid ACT, the Women Lawyers Association ACT, and the Women’s Legal Centre – ACT & Region. Financial support comes from principal sponsor Lawcover.

For information on ACT Law Week events call 6274 0300 or visit actlawsociety.asn.au

11 London Circuit, Canberra City

Phone: 6230 0199

Email: reception@mfamilylawyers.com.au www.mfamilylawyers.com.au

advertising feature

Law Week highlights

Law Week Launch and ACT Golden Gavel Competition

Monday, May 16, 5.30pm.

University House.

Tickets $35.

Annual Blackburn Lecture

Delivered by John Faulks, Deputy Chief Justice of the Family Court of Australia.

Tuesday, May 17, 12.30pm. Pilgrim House Conference Centre. Entry by gold coin donation.

Law Week Dinner

The Women Lawyers Association

ACT hosts the Annual Law Week Dinner, with special guest, Catherine McGregor. Wednesday, May 18, 6.30pm. The Boat House by the Lake.

Tickets $140.

Legal Advice Bureau

Free 15-minute appointments to discuss legal matters with experienced solicitors. May 16-19, 12.30pm-2pm.

Blackburn Lecture speaker Deputy Chief Justice of the Family Court of Australia, John Faulks.

ACT Law Society. Bookings essential.

Wills Day:

Free 30-minute appointments with a specialist solicitor for advice on how to set up a will. Friday May 20, 11am-2pm.

ACT Law Society. Bookings essential.

Will-awareness sessions

Information sessions on the importance of having a current will and a power of attorney. Four sessions, May 16-19. Tuggeranong and Gungahlin Community Centres. Bookings essential.

Tours of the ACT Supreme Court

Two public tours a day, comprising a 20-minute talk and tour of the court, followed by a live court sitting. May 16-20 at 11am and 2pm. Bookings essential.

Law Week aims to promote public understanding of the law and its role in society with free public events including lectures, tours, and information sessions. Book online or call for appointments.

» The Blackburn Lecture: to be given by the Hon John Faulks, Deputy Chief Justice of the Family Court of Australia — Tuesday 17 May 2015 at 12pm.

» Walk for Legal Assistance Funding: Join us to support more funding for Legal Aid and CLCs — Wednesday 18 May 2016, 8am.

» Will Awareness Public Information Sessions: Free talks on Wills and Powers of Attorney — four sessions from Monday 16 May to Thursday 19 May.

» Wills Day: Make a free 30 minute appointment with one of our qualified solicitors for advice on how to set up your Will — appointments available Friday 20 May between 11am and 2pm.

» Public tours of the ACT Supreme Court — all week.

ACT Law Week

Nelson & Co Strong, personalised legal advice

NELSON & Co is a well-established legal practice providing strong and personalised legal advice and services for more than 50 years.

Principal Allan Nelson started the practice in the early 1960s. Nelson & Co has set a number of precedents within the ACT.

In 2012 James Colquhoun joined the firm as a special counsel. He has more than 45 years of litigation experience. Peter Hohnen, also a special counsel,

is a specialist in litigation and dispute resolution and joined the firm in 2014.

Nelson & Co provides specialised services in conveyancing, estate planning, commerical law, litigation and dispute processing, property and planning law as well as agency matters.

Nelson & Co, Level 1, Savings House, 8 Petrie Plaza, Canberra. Visit nelcolaw.com or call 6248 8544.

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Mazengarb Lawyers

Seeking solutions to match unique needs

MAZENGARB Lawyers are family law specialists and focus on negotiation, mediation and court proceedings as well as property settlement, parenting, domestic violence, divorce and others.

Principal solicitor Geoffrey Mazengarb has more than 30 years of experience in family law. He says that due to the court system’s limited resources and judge time, it can take up to 18 months before the courts can deal with a matter. During this time clients’ lives are put on hold, especially relating to decisions regarding property, assets and children. Geoff says that while the delay to get a matter in front of a judge can be inconvenient, it can also be an opportunity to bring the parties together to deal with the matter more quickly, through roundtable discussions and mediation.

“We emphasise the importance of parties dealing with the problem and inventing their own solutions,” he says.

“Decisions can be made based on your unique needs and situation that judges may not necessarily take into account.”

Geoff says that Mazengarb Lawyers has facilities onsite and access to outside advisers such as financial advisers, tax advisers and child psychologists to expand the pool of knowledge that surrounds the parties.

“We find that everyone comes in with a common desire to focus on working out a solution,” says Geoff. Mazengarb Lawyers, 11 London Circuit, Civic. Call 6230 0199 or visit mfamilylawyers.com.au

Baker Deane & Nutt

Skilled, personal legal advice

BAKER Deane & Nutt has provided legal services to Canberra, Queanbeyan and surrounding regions for 150 years.

Partner Tanya Nadin says: “We are one of the oldest firms in Australia and we have a strong reputation for providing skilled legal advice with accessible and personal attention.”

Established in Sydney in the early 1850s and now with two offices, one in Queanbeyan and the other in Canberra, Baker, Deane & Nutt has experienced and skilled lawyers to advise in all legal areas including personal injury, conveyancing, wills and estates, property law, commercial law, family law, migration law and criminal law.

“We provide services for both the ACT and NSW. We assist with all legal needs, we are a full-service firm and we achieve excellent results for our clients in a costeffective manner,” says Mrs Nadin.

Baker Deane & Nutt. Call the Canberra office on 6230 1999 or Queanbeyan, on 6299 3999. Visit bdn. com.au

Maliganis Edwards Johnson

Fighting for injured clients

MALIGANIS Edwards Johnson has protected the rights of injured Canberrans for 30 years.

Partner Deborah Rolfe says: “Every client is important. It can be a very stressful time, we act for the injured person who doesn’t understand their rights and who needs support against an organisation.

“We deal with the insurers so the client can concentrate on getting better and receiving the treatment or assistance they require”.

Working on a “no win, no fee” basis, Maliganis Edwards Johnson specialises in personal injury law, in particular getting

Accredited Specialist Family Law

Yeend & Associates Family Lawyers is the largest specialist Family Law firm located in Gungahlin.

Conveniently located on Anthony Rolfe Avenue, we provide our clients flexibility with extended hours from 7am until 7pm and free parking.

Our team was recognised in the 2015 Doyle’s Family Law Guide for our expertise and ability in Family Law. Director

Gillian Yeend is an Accredited Specialist in Family Law and was recognised in the 2015 Doyle’s Family Law Guide as a Leading Divorce and Family Lawyer in the ACT.

Contact us for your initial no obligation appointment with a Family Law Solicitor.

Yeend and Associates

Where family matters matter the most

YEEND & Associates Family Lawyers opened as the first specialist family law firm in Gungahlin early 2013. Located in Gungahlin and Civic (by appointment), the practice has now grown to 11 staff since its inception.

Yeend & Associates specialises in all family law matters and approaches all client and professional relationships with the aim of respectful and courteous practice. Director Gillian Yeend is an accredited specialist in family law and was recognised in the “2015 Doyle’s Family Law Guide” as a leading divorce and family lawyer in the ACT. The firm was also recognised in the “2015 Doyle’s Family Law Guide” for its expertise and ability.

“We encourage a constructive and conciliatory approach to your matter, effective and timely resolution of disputes and ensuring that costs are not unreasonably incurred,” says Gillian.

compensation for motor vehicle accidents, workplace injuries, construction site accidents, medical negligence, wrongful death and public liability.

“Over 30 years we have obtained some excellent results for people with short-term injuries and long-term disabilities. No amount of money can give back your health, but it does give you the treatment to enable you to go back to work or to look after your family,” she says.

Maliganis Edwards Johnson, 60 Marcus Clarke Street, Civic. Call 6257 2999 or visit mej.com.au

“We believe that, in negotiating your family law matter, minimisation of conflict should be a primary goal. We treat all clients equally despite their personal or financial circumstances and also have specialist expertise acting on behalf of clients from the LGBTIQ community including advising on issues arising from surrogacy and assisted reproductive technology.”

Yeend & Associates offers a free first consultation for all new clients and has a range of payment options including fixed-fee work in some family law matters. It provides convenient, professional services with free parking and extended hours, 7am until 7pm one day a week. All members of the Australian Defence Force, police and emergency services, seniors, students and residents of Gungahlin receive a discount for the preparation of all wills and powers of attorney.

Yeend & Associates Family Lawyers, 117 Anthony Rolfe Avenue, Gungahlin. Visit yeendassociates.com.au or call 6154 5090.

scene / around canberra

sundayROAST

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

between 10am and noon.

Canberra Confidential

Corbell the comeback kid?

CANBERRA’S former Prince of Outrage, Jorian Gardner, clearly delighted at the news of the ACT’s fast-forwarding to 100 per cent of renewable energy, tweeted last week that Environment

Minister Simon Corbell is “doing far better work” than Greens leader Shane Rattenbury “has ever done on the environment”.

These days, Melbourne-based Jorian – he of the infamous Nazi burlesque at the Fringe Festival – is an adviser to Australian Sex Party leader Fiona Patten (who was elected to the Victorian Upper House at the last election) and will probably be directing traffic as the Sex Party mounts local candidates to contest the October ACT election with the Greens being the primary target for stealing votes.

But he’d best be careful what he wishes for. CC is hearing of the dawning concern at the lack of depth in the preselected Labor line-up and the stupidity of the Left faction’s inexplicable decision to effectively dump Corbell from this year’s ticket.

Certainly, for a man working notice, the Deputy Chief Minister hasn’t missed a beat in prosecuting the tram argument, juggling the miseries of the Health portfolio and soldiering on almost singlehandedly saving the environment.

CC predicts someone down the ticket in his home electorate of Murrumbidgee will find themselves suddenly indisposed and Corbell will be called to make up the numbers. Labor certainly needs him; there is but daylight between Chief Minister Andrew Barr and the rest of his cabinet when it comes to political nous and experience.

The dead ringer tribute band

WELL, we’re going to call it: weird, that’s what the glumly titled, concept group Dead Singer Band is. Coming to Canberra later this month this quartet takes tribute bands into a decidedly strange place.

Comprising three former members of the Masters Apprentices band, Dead Singer Band was borne from the grief over the death of Apprentices’ singer Jim Keays

Apparently, from the reminiscing about how many dead singers they collectively knew, the three veteran musos - brothers Colin and Denny Burgess, and Roger Faynes - discovered that between them they had a collection of personal stories to tell about a host of

iconic lead vocalists (for instance, Colin was Bon Scott’s tour roommate when he was drumming for AC/DC).

So, with singer Vanessa Lea , stories and footage were collected and collated, and the result is a show based on, well, dead singers including the work of Billy Thorpe, Ray Brown, Shirley Strachan, Ted Mulry, Darryl Cotton, Maurice and Robin Gibb, Bon Scott , Doc Neeson, Chrissy Amphlett , Michael Hutchence and Stevie Wright with the recently deceased Jon English rounding the night out.

The dead centre of Australian music is at The Basement, on Friday, May 20.

Cakeage’s bad taste

LAST week we wondered if anyone could top the $2.50 “cakeage” cost a Watson reader had been charged recently by a restaurant for slicing up a birthday cake. Margaret Funnell can top that and then some. She wrote to say that almost 20 years ago at a swanky Barton restaurant (we have the name) she was charged $4 a slice at her son’s 18th birthday.

“As it was a large cake for over 20 people, it was a considerable and unexpected charge,” she says.

“When I had asked if it was all right to bring a cake, they had not informed me of any additional costs. Needless to say, no tips were given as it had finished the night with an unpleasant taste.”

There’s still no clue to cakeage costs on the restaurant’s website, but its corkage cost for BYO wine is an eye-watering $20 these days.

T-shirts with a mission

WHO would have known: more than two billion T-shirts are made every year around the world, the vast majority in an unethical and unsustainable way.

But not, it seems, in Canberra where sustainable furniture makers Anita and Carlo Krikowa have created Lost and Found, which is creating T-shirts that don’t damage. Indeed, they do a whole lot of good by supporting women and children affected by economic domestic violence.

“We chose economic domestic violence since it’s not as well understood as some other forms of domestic violence,” says Anita. “This type of

violence occurs when an abuser controls all the money, often not giving the victim access to bank accounts or an adequate allowance or even the money needed to get to and from work.” Lost and Found has struck a partnership with the Domestic Violence Crisis Service ACT, which manages the program, channelling funds to those who need it most.

The design of whales on the first season’s tees is original and by Canberra’s Katie McAuliffe. The tees are made using 100 per cent organic cotton, 73 per cent recycled water, 90 per cent renewable energy and are carbon neutral. They’re made by workers protected by Fair Trade laws and no child labour is involved. They’re only available through Cardif Collective, Green Square, Kingston (upstairs in the Cusack Centre) and online via boyandgirlco.com.au

arts & entertainment

Latham picks ‘flowers’

of war

CANBERRA music director

Christopher Latham believes World War I was the last conflict that put great artists on to the field.

“In subsequent wars, artists do not serve but become conscientious objectors, like Benjamin Britten, but in World War I they signed up in droves,” he says.

“They had the misguided idea that they were part of a great adventure that would redefine Europe.” They soon learnt otherwise. With time on their hands before the inevitable slaughter, artists made art and nowhere more than during the lengthy Battle of Verdun in 1916, death on a wholly industrial scale.

Verdun, often eclipsed in popular mythology by the Battle of the Somme, will form the basis of “Life, Death and Transcendence: Verdun and the WW1 sketch book of Franz Marc”, the first concert for a huge FrenchAustralian project called “The Flowers of War – Les Fleurs de Guerre.”

It focuses on Franz Marc, the most popular German Expressionist painter of his day, who died at Verdun aged 36, leaving behind a black and white sketchbook.

In the May 17 concert, Latham will show through projected visual images how those sketches might have been transformed into painting had Marc lived.

Latham, who holds joint

Australian French citizenship (his mum is French), is just back from tramping around the graveyards of France while putting together a Franco-Australian orchestra for the French part of “Les Fleurs” and he’s had time to think about “Life, Death and Transcendence”, the title of the coming event.

What are the “flowers” of war?

“They are the artistic creations of World War I – poetry, music and painting – made by artists who served as soldiers,” says Latham.

The French lost composers in spades, he says, but the Germans particularly lost painters, so the first public concert in the program, coming up in May at the NGA, will be a study in talk, music and visuals of “what those soldiers made”.

There’ll be a pre-concert conversation with war historian Joan Beaumont and 90-year-old Jacqueline Dwyer, researcher and daughter of Jacques Playoust, a Franco-Australian soldier who served at Verdun. Latham will read from Marc’s battlefield letters to his wife, which hint at reincarnation and the Easter imagery of life springing up again.

The following concert performed by Louise Page and the Sculthorpe Quartet features mostly French works by Albert Roussel, who transported ammunition during Verdun; André Caplet, who served at Verdun and even Maurice Ravel, who composed while driving his truck to and from Verdun. It will conclude with the “transfiguration” part from “Death and Transfiguration” by Richard Strauss, the most important German composer of the period.

“Life, Death and Transcendence”, James O Fairfax Theatre, National Gallery of Australia, Tuesday, May 17. Pre-concert conversation (free) 6.30pm-7.30pm, concert (ticketed) 8pm. Bookings to trybooking.com/ KVMM

By Helen Musa

CANBERRA-raised dancer Sam YoungWright loves to travel, but there’s no place like home.

He’ll be here soon with the Sydney Dance Company in its double-bill “Countermove”, performing to a home-town audience in which he hopes to see old friends from Quantum Leap, where he found his feet as a young hoofer.

“I love a good holiday, so touring a lot is one of the best perks of the job… it’s really stimulating for me to be working with the lovely people who run the theatres,” the 23-year-old enthuses.

Just after we speak, the company was to take off for Switzerland’s dance biennial Steps Festival and four weeks in Europe with its 2014 triple bill, “Interplay” followed by three weeks in Sao Paulo, Santiago de Chile and Buenos Aires. As well, there are 78 scheduled performances for Sydney Dance Company at 19 venues around Australia this year.

It’s a mighty leap for the young dancer who started out at a boys’ class with Fresh Funk at Tuggeranong Arts Centre, moved on to spend nine years with Ruth Osborne’s youth dance program, Quantum Leap – “my older sister in Canberra dragged me along and I decided

to run with it” – and picked up 18 months of ballet classes with Kylie Hunter at the National Capital Ballet School.

Describing Quantum Leap as “so switched on for boys,” Young-Wright praises Osborne’s teaching style, saying: “Through Ruth, I had some of the best training in the country.”

As soon as he hits terra firma Australia after South America, he’ll dive into the two dance pieces we’re about to see.

The first is Swedish choreographer Alexander Ekman’s “Cacti”, which he describes as “a real crowdpleaser, so intelligent, so theatrical”. A hilarious satirical piece that pokes fun at contemporary dance, it features a string quartet on stage.

In contrast, Rafael Bonachela’s new work, “Lux Tenebris”, has been in development from late last year.

“We are creating a work that looks at light and darkness, with beautiful lighting and beats by composer Nick Wales,” he tells “CityNews”, explaining how Bonachela’s signature physicality sees all 16 dancers pushing the limits of their bodies.

It couldn’t be more different from “Cacti” – “it’s a great juxtaposition of works,” he says.

“Countermove”, Sydney Dance Company, Canberra Theatre, May 19-21, bookings to canberratheatrecentre. com.au or 6275 2700.

The Fellow from Madras

“The Man Who Knew Infinity” (PG)

THIS is the third film, after “A Beautiful Mind” (2001) and “The Theory Of Everything” (2014), about a mathematician who made profoundly important discoveries while beset by profoundly debilitating personal conditions.

Writer/director Matt Brown’s bio-pic of Srinivasa Ramanujan delivers a portrait of a man who knew how far he could go if given effective guidance.

He taught himself from an out-of-date mathematical treatise he found in high school that set him on his life’s course. From age 17 he built such a reputation and achievement in mathematical skills that, by early 1913, he felt emboldened to write to GH Hardy at Trinity College enclosing some of his unproved theorems. Hardy was hooked. And this is where Brown’s film begins.

by Steve Blount

You don’t need to understand higher mathematics to take satisfaction from it. It’s about a fish out of water, an impoverished vegetarian Hindu genius who left a young wife in his mother’s care in Madras and came to Cambridge to learn from the Fellows of an institution with centuries of Anglo tradition and social prejudices.

It treads carefully among emotional anguish, frustration, shame, embarrassment, anxiety and, after graduating with the 1916 equivalent of a PhD and election as a Fellow of two prestigious learned Societies, learning of the previous misdiagnosis of the tuberculosis that ultimately caused his death in India aged 32.

Dev Patel as Ramanujan is gently convincing. But the film belongs to Jeremy Irons as Hardy, the austere academic who learned much about his own humanity from Ramanujan’s example as he helped to cultivate and fertilise the latter’s consuming passion. Toby Jones is good as Littlewood, Hardy’s close friend. And as Janaki, Ramanujan’s wife, denied the comfort of his letters as much by her own illiteracy as by his mother’s concealing of them that she didn’t discover until after his death, Devika Bhise provides a mote of poignancy and concern for the social condition of women in India.

At Dendy, Palace Electric, Greater Union

“A Month of Sundays” (PG)

IN “A Month of Sundays”, Matthew Saville’s screenplay and direction, with a small cast led by two leading Australian actors, delivers a gentle, warmly perceptive film about ordinary people coping with ordinary-life situations that make extraordinary demands on them. Anthony LaPaglia plays divorced real-estate agent Frank, unable to connect with his teenaged son, never making a sale, going home each evening to loneliness, unable to pass a property with a “For Sale” sign without

mentally evaluating it in the jargon of his trade. Frank gets a phone call from a woman saying she’s his mother. That’s hardly possible – she died a year ago. He learns the caller’s address and goes there. Retired librarian Sarah (Julia Blake) is a widow with a socially inept adult son Damien (Donal Forde). Frank and Sarah develop a gentle friendship. Sarah has put her large home library into piles marked by names written on Post-its. She has a reason.

Those characters and their individual situations form the essence of “A Month of Sundays”, with a minor sub-plot involving a working-class couple desperate to find a house they can afford to rear their babe in arms. Put all these elements together, stage them in leafy Adelaide suburbs, give its serious demeanour a gentle leavening of humour from John Clarke as Frank’s boss, and you have a film offering agreeable satisfaction. At Palace Electric and Capitol 6

“Mother’s Day” (M)

IN this year’s celebration of the mercantile insanity called “Mother’s Day”, a cast of high-strength Hollywood names wallows in a farrago of comedic, emotional, behavioural excess.

Jennifer Aniston plays Sandy, mother of two small boys, divorced from Henry (Timothy Olyphant) who arrives to tell Sandy that he’s just taken a trophy bride. Kate Hudson plays Jesse, mother of a babe conceived by IVF ‘cos her partner’s lesbian. Jason Sudeikis plays Bradley, a widower with two daughters. What childless Miranda (Julia Roberts), spruiking costume jewellery on a TV shopping network, is doing in a mothers’ movie will be revealed.

Tom Hines and Lily Hollander gave director Gary Marshall a screenplay for which the guiding mantra seems to have been “Make ‘em laugh at every sequence, whatever the cost”.

Hector Elizondo as Miranda’s agent, Margo Martindale and Robert Pine as Jesse’s grey nomad parents, and Jake Whitehall as Zack, seeking fame as a stand-up comedian, do their best to provide moments where that criterion works, but by then a film reeking with predict ability, soaked in clichés, populated by characters battling vicissitudes that their personalities have difficulty handling, is beyond resuscitation.

At all cinemas

Classic French menu with a modern twist

This food is so pretty on the plate you feel guilty digging in and disturbing the artwork.

THE new seasonal menu is being dished up and with flair at Les Bistronomes.

If this bistro promises anything beyond fab flavours, it’s plating with finesse. This food is so pretty on the plate you feel guilty digging in and disturbing the artwork.

Les Bistronomes is very, very French. By the age of 18, chef Clement Chauvin was slaving away at Pic, a two-Michelin star restaurant in Valence. Then at Nicolas Le Bec in Lyon, also with two Michelin stars. And, eventually, at Gordon Ramsay’s Claridges in London. These are all military-style kitchens where the emphasis is always on perfection. Nothing less than perfection.

Clement opened Les Bistronomes in Braddon with Abel Bariller, a professional French master sommelier and a “Knight of Cognac” (yes, a knight).

Although causal and friendly, the bistro offers excellent classic French dishes and other dishes

arts in the city

with a modern twist.

The five-course chef’s degustation is a steal for only $50 (available at lunch on Saturdays, and you’d best book).

We started with a dish closely identified with French cuisine – a velvety, smooth chestnut soup, packed with earthy flavour and decorated with caramelised onion, chive crème fraiche and pickled chestnut. It was a perfect start to our dining adventure.

The traditional escargot (with a decadent garlic butter) were stunning and the housemade pork rillettes with crunchy pickles and house-made bread a standout.

The foie gras mousse with dried raspberries and duck gizzard shouldn’t scare you off. Classic French dishes have evolved over centuries and are created with technique entrenched in tradition. This dish is sublime.

The restaurant was kind enough to substitute the next dish, recognising that one of our diners had been at the restaurant for the chef’s degustation the weekend before (that’s how good it is) and keen to let him try something new. And so it was that we travelled to heaven with the braised lamb neck, grilled lamb tenderloin, brussels

sprouts and swede purée.

And last, but certainly not least, the creamy crème caramel made its grand entrance “en flame”. It was massive (I couldn’t finish it, although gave it a go) and perfect with a delightful drunken fig at the bottom.

By Helen Musa

Back to murder and mayhem

TEMPO Theatre is up to its usual murderous shenanigans with the terrifying comedy-thriller “Deathtrap”, written by Ira Levin (author of “Rosemary’s Baby” and “The Boys from Brazil”). Failing murdermystery playwright Sidney Bruhl crosses swords with the clever, emerging playwright Clifford Anderson and the plot thickens. At Belconnen Theatre, May 20-28, bookings to canberraticketing.com. au or 6275 2700.

UNSINKABLE Toby Cole recently turned on a swishy behind-thescenes launch of his new artistic company “Handel in the Theatre” at The Playhouse. Now it’s time for Handel fans to fork out. Thanks to Creative Partnerships Australia’s “MATCH” program, donations to his crowdfunding campaign will be matched dollar for dollar, assuming he reaches the target of $10,000. When last we looked, he was well over halfway there. Donate at handelinthetheatre.com.au

ONE of Australia’s best known “Phantom of the Opera” actors, Michael Cormick (he played the role here a couple of years back), will be at Vivaldi’s on Mother’s Day to croon romantic songs from shows such as “Phantom” and “Les Miserables”. He’ll be accompanied by Canberraraised pianist James Court.

THE late Pete Smith, first general manager of M16 at its former home

at Mildura Street, Fyshwick, was an accomplished artist whose work won the Phoenix Prize for Spiritual Art in 2007. Now curator Jacque Schultze has put together a huge exhibition marking the first anniversary of Smith’s death across three M16 spaces at Blaxland Crescent, Griffith, that runs until May 22. All works are for sale and proceeds will go towards emerging artists at M16.

THE artistic director of the Australian Ballet, David McAllister, will join the National Portrait Gallery collection in a newly-commissioned

portrait taken by Australian photographer, Peter Brew-Bevan. The portrait will form part of a larger project to recognise the contribution of dance in Australia.

THE ANU Music Society is holding an end of semester concert featuring the Society Orchestra, Concert Band and Jazz Band performing heroic favourites, ranging from “The Pirates of the Caribbean” to Beethoven’s “Egmont”. In the Big Band Room, ANU, Peter Karmel Building, School of Music, 3pm, Sunday, May 8. Tickets $5 at the door.

If the five-course degustation isn’t your thing, you can order from the à la carte menu, which has a remarkable bouillabaisse, a ribeye with bone marrow and béarnaise sauce and an out-of-this-world duck à l’orange.

It’s comfortable to get through the five courses, relaxed on the plush chairs with their classic stripes. Exposed bricks feature on one wall as does a large rack stacked

with amazing wines. And if you have any questions about wine, Abel is your man. He is a true master and keen to share ideas, knowledge and advice.

Les Bistronomes offers a delicious range of gluten free, dairy free and vegetarian dishes.

Les Bistronomes, corner of Mort and Elouera Streets. Call 6248 8119. Open for lunch and dinner, Tuesday to Saturday.

The growing passion to plant

WITH increased demand for fruit trees and the number of people growing their own vegetables, it’s no surprise to learn that the demand for community gardens is astounding.

Even with our seemingly vast open spaces in Canberra, our “town council” seems unable to meet the demand and make new sites available for community gardens.

In the early days of Canberra and Queanbeyan, many migrants arrived from Europe, particularly Greeks and Italians. Many came from farming areas yet were very good at growing fruit trees, knowing how to graft, propagate and cross pollinate.

But the second and third generations of migrant families started to lose interest in growing fruit and vegetables and by the ‘90s, the sale of fruit trees had significantly fallen.

And building blocks have become progressively smaller to the extent that today many people find it easier to trot along to a farmer’s market than grow their own.

A DEVELOPMENT in growing fruit trees on dwarf root stocks has meant that many fruit trees are suited for the small garden.

Alternatively, they can be grown in large containers. This is possible even on reasonably sized balconies with plenty of sun.

A “dwarf” fruit tree doesn’t mean the fruit is dwarf. For instance, the Fleming’s Nurseries’ range of Trixzie miniature fruit trees will produce full-size fruit from as early as two years.

A couple of examples: Trixzie “Gala” apple will grow to just 2m x 2m and, for cross pollination, use Trixzie “Pink Lady”. Take into account that apples, pears, plums and cherries require a second tree for the bees to cross pollinate. It’s important that these fruit trees flower at the same time or the bees get totally confused.

PEACHES (with one exception), apricots and nectarines are self-pollinating, so only one is required. These are possibly better for balcony growing. Examples include Trixzie “Nectazee” nectarine growing to just 1.5m x 1.5m. Of a similar size is Trixzie “Pixzee” peach with full-size fruit.

I’ve always been intrigued that when talking about “fruit” trees the topic doesn’t include “citrus” trees.

Many citrus trees are ideal for container growing and the “Meyer” lemon is possibly the best for containers.

Keep in mind all fruit trees require full sun and, for plants in containers, watering and feeding cannot be neglected.

Don’t use saucers under a container as they inhibit drainage and can cause root rot. But if you must, fill the saucer with pebbles and sit the container on top of the pebbles. Naturally, this is applicable to all pot plants.

With the exception of citrus, most fruit trees will not arrive in garden centres until about

June, but now’s the time to start thinking about where to plant them. Most garden centres have catalogues to assist with selection.

THE “Mayfield Garden” at Oberon is fast becoming one of Australia’s great gardens. Millions of dollars have been spent on this amazing garden. The good news is that it is on the Horticultural Society of Canberra’s next bus trip, a two-day tour with an overnight stop on October 25-26. Early bookings are recommended and full details by emailing canberragardener@ gmail.com.au or calling 6281 4041.

Jottings...

• It’s an ideal time to lay turf with cooler weather and less watering required.

• Rake leaves off lawns and from the tops of small hedges.

• Plant rhubarb in soil into which plenty of organic matter/cow manure has been added.

• Move containerised cit rus out of possible early frosts, under eaves or a carport.

Joanne Madeline Moore

Your week in the stars – May 9-15, 2016

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

Many Rams are feeling mighty restless, as projects seem stalled at every turn. Retrograde Mars is doing a number on you, and forcing you to be patient – something that definitely doesn’t come naturally! Personal relations and money matters are also in the firing line this week, as Mercury continues reversing through your selfesteem and cash zone (until May 22). So it will take oodles of self-belief, positive self-talk and financial self-discipline to get things back on track again.

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)

Even though Mercury is still reversing through your sign, which can be very frustrating, things pick up this week as Neptune, Jupiter and Pluto all make very pleasant aspects to your ruling planet Venus. So within the constraints of some confusing communication and minor mix-ups it’s a wonderful week to be creative, spiritual and/or sociable. A troubled relationship with a child, teenager or friend is also set to improve – as long as you take the time to really listen.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

This week you’ll be easily bored, so make sure your timetable’s full of fun and entertaining projects. Home is a hive of activity, as Jupiter moves forwards and people come and go at a constant and confusing rate. A close relationship is very frustrating but hang in there! If you are patient (not easy for a gung-ho Gemini), then things will gradually improve. But, if a loved one offers you vague instructions or complicated directions, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

Hey Crabs, your daily routine seems to be moving along at a super-slow snail’s pace but be patient and have faith that things are happening behind the scenes. When it comes to a friend or acquaintance, all is not as it seems so use your trusty bull-detector to separate fact from fiction. This week’s stars favour tapping into your compassionate side as you get involved in charitable work with a global reach, or lend a helping hand to someone in your local community.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

With Venus and retro Mercury in your work zone, strive to manage misunderstandings and patch up problems in a cooperative fashion, as you hold out the olive branch of peace. You’re very focused on professional projects but don’t put all your eggs in the one work basket. Make sure you diversify your interests; expand your contacts; experiment with creative ideas and keep your options open. If you’re in line for a promotion, bonus, raise or new job, then dress to impress.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)

Delays and disruptions may unsettle your veritable Virgo cool. Things are constantly changing, so keep your schedule flexible. You’re keen to work hard this week but don’t let your perfectionist streak get out of control. If you worry about getting things 100% right every time, then you’ll never try anything new. Consider the wise words of birthday great Salvador Dali: “Mistakes are almost always of a sacred nature. Never try to correct them.” Food for thought.

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)

Monday is fabulous for flirting, romance, creativity, spiritual pursuits and delicious daydreams. But avoid the temptation to blow the budget with some spontaneous binge shopping. The planets caution you to be unusually sensible, and to save rather than spend. Librans are master diplomats, with the ability to calm and console those around them. You’ll certainly be working overtime on Friday, when you soothe a worried family member or a stressed work mate.

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)

Attached Scorpions – your love life looks problematic, as you and your sweetheart seem to be heading in opposite directions. This week, take the time to re-connect on a deep level and find some satisfying middle ground. Singles – you’re looking for your soul mate but are you sending out mixed messages? Perhaps it’s time to reword your online dating profile, as you strive to attract a partner who is passionate, productive and profound. Frivolous dilettantes need not apply!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Prepare for a somewhat schizophrenic week! Jupiter (your patron planet) moves forwards on Monday, so you’ll feel like powering ahead with all sorts of projects in typical spontaneous Sagittarian style. But being impulsive and impetuous could backfire badly this week. Mars and Saturn are still reversing through your sign so enthusiasm must be balanced with caution, and fiery haste tempered with plenty of patience. Sunday is super for socialising with work colleagues.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Capricorns are usually awesome organisers. But with Mars and Saturn both retrograde, your managerial mojo may have temporarily deserted you, as your confidence takes a nose-dive. Don’t waste time feeling frustrated. Use the next few weeks to recharge your rundown batteries and reboot your self-belief. And don’t do everything by the book – have some fun along the way. Be inspired by birthday great Katharine Hepburn: “If you obey all the rules, you miss all the fun.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

With retrograde Mars and retrograde Saturn both slowing things down considerably, your ambitious goals may seem unreachable at the moment but don’t be discouraged Aquarius. With plenty of planning and persistence, you can make your dreams come true. Patience is the key. Plus be extra careful when emailing, texting, tweeting, publishing and posting this week, as it will be very easy to accidentally send the wrong message to the wrong person (especially family members).

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

The week starts well with Venus and Neptune making beautiful music together, so put aside time to express yourself creatively via writing, painting, photography, acting, singing, dancing or playing music. Pisceans are super romantic souls, but don’t end up being a martyr in love. If your partner isn’t treating you well, stand up for yourself. And if they don’t change their behaviour, then Jupiter may give you the confidence to finally make a move and walk out the door.

Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2016 Daily astrology updates at twitter.com/JoMadelineMoore

4 What is another term for fool’s gold?

7 Which species of flatfish is found in coastal Australian and NZ waters?

8 What are young eels called?

9 Name the national legislative body of the US.

11 To be stupid or obstinate, is to be what?

13 Name a Welsh melted cheese delicacy.

15 What is another name for a tomahawk?

17 Which planet has a system of five rings?

20 What is a lift also known as?

23 Which term describes very large jet planes?

24 Name a less familiar word for violent storms.

25 What are small pincers with long jaws?

1 What is the highest male voice?

2 Name a colloquial term for Australia’s small yellow and green parakeet.

Sudoku medium No. 173 General knowledge crossword No.

546

Tim came to see me, uncertain about what things he should do before the end of the financial year, personally and professionally, to minimise his tax.

“There are a number of tips that I can give you, firstly on the personal front and, at our next meeting, on the business front,” I advised him.

3 To be unemployed, is to be what?

4 What is the newspaper industry also known as?

5 What are large, glossy black, somewhat predacious birds?

6 Which city was the capital of the Kingdom of Italy 1860-65?

9 Name the Australian prime minister 1941-45, John ...

10 Which bag is used for carrying schoolbooks?

12 Name an annual Christian festival.

14 What is an establishment where racehorses are kept and trained?

16 What is the cup-shaped depression marking the orifice of a volcano?

18 To be evenly balanced, is to be what?

19 Which structures are formed and used by birds for rearing their young?

21 What are large, mostly deciduous, trees?

22 Which cereal grasses are used as food for horses, etc?

“The first thing is your home-office claim. If you have an area set aside at home that you use and you keep a diary for four weeks of the year showing your use of that area, then you can claim for your energy costs at the rate of 45 cents an hour.

“This rate increased on July 1, 2014, so if you used an incorrect rate last year you can even do an amendment. The previous rate was 34 cents an hour so the increase is quite large.

“If you have been used to claiming medical expenses in excess of the threshold, there will be no further claims for your medical expenses. The only allowable claims will be for items that relate to disability aids, attendant care or aged care.

“This is a significant change and means that you no longer need to keep your medical receipts for your tax return. You will be able to claim for disability aids, attendant care or aged care until June 30, 2019, when this, too, phases out.

“The other major area of change is in motor vehicle expenses. The way that you claim for travel of less than 5000 kilometres has changed. From July 1, 2015, there is only one rate and that is 66 cents a kilometre. Previously, there were different rates depending on the engine capacity of the car.”

“If you used the car for more than 5000 kilometres you had three choices when you made a claim. You could claim using 12 per cent of the cost of the car or 1/3 of actual expenses or actual expenses using the logbook percentage.

“From July 1, 2015, the 12 per cent of the cost of the car method and the 1/3 of actual expenses methods have been abolished meaning that if you do not have a logbook you have to limit your claim to a maximum of 5000 kilometres at 66 cents which is $3300.

“It does mean that if you haven’t kept a logbook of car usage, your claim may well be lower than before. There are conditions to log-book claims and you need to do a new logbook every five years.”

“I know you’ve had a lot to take in, Tim, but one final tip; I’ve had a few clients recently who have checked the unclaimed superannuation and the unclaimed monies registers. They can easily be found on the internet and many people are surprised to find that there is something owing to them. If you need assistance in checking those registers and making claims we can assist you.”

A very appreciative Tim said: “I didn’t know all of that, Gail, so thanks. I’m off to start working on these issues and when we meet next week, we can look at the business side of things.”

If you need help on tax deductions and changes in personal and business roles, contact the friendly team at Gail Freeman & Co Pty Ltd