Lycra-clad and copping it TIM GAVEL
Off on holiday… to Sydney! CHRIS COLEMAN
Winter’s the time for flowers CEDRIC BRYANT
Unlocking secrets of sangria RICHARD CALVER
Meet soprano Shu-Cheen Yu, star of the Canberra International Music Festival
It’s now down
As further reports emerge regarding clients who have been grossly over-charged or sold hearing aids with technology beyond their needs, I am more concerned than ever for anyone who is in need of hearing services. This past week alone I have had two clients come to me with hearing aids that were unnecessary for their lifestyle and budget. They had been ‘up-sold’ and over-spent on technology they didn’t need.
One individual was a client of the government ‘Office of Hearing Services’ program and therefore entitled to free hearing aids. This person was sold ‘top-up’ hearing aids at a cost to her of $6000. She is 75 years old, seldom goes into background noise and just wanted to hear her family and the TV better. Why, I asked, did you pay $6000 for top-up hearing aids? She said the salesperson/clinician said she needed ‘better’ hearing aids than the free ones. In my opinion, the free hearing aids would have met this client’s needs and this was a case of taking advantage of someone’s trust. No wonder the ACCC is investigating the hearing aid industry.
decision takes the focus away from the patient and replaces it with selling a product; I call this ‘greed before need’.
• The next part of the answer is that people expect health professionals to act on the client’s behalf; this is as it should be. As professionals, we sign up to a Code of Conduct to that effect. But too often I see people whose needs were not considered; they were sold hearing aids that either don’t work for them or were the wrong hearing aid to begin with.
In my opinion, the free hearing aids would have met this client’s needs and this was a case of taking advantage of someone’s trust.
- Dr Vass
You might ask ‘how is this possible’? This problem occurs for a couple of reasons, including:
• The larger retail chains often hire clinicians, pay them sales commissions and expect them to reach a monthly sales target. The result may be a decision about the client that does not take the client’s needs or budget into consideration. This
The solution to these problems is to make sure the clinician is acting in the best interest of the client. Consumers need to do their research:
• If possible, take a family member with you.
• Ask questions about sales commissions and sales targets.
• Never be afraid to seek a second opinion.
• Ask for a copy of your audiogram, this is useful when seeking a second opinion.
Not everyone needs a hearing aid but everyone needs independent and professional advice.
I pride myself on maintaining an independent and ethical practice that acts on behalf of my client’s best interests.
By Danielle Nohra
WHEN one family started the Canberra Honesty Box, a shed that sells chemical-free vegetables to the public, it wasn’t long before another house joined in and then another, turning a small cul-desac in Hackett into a mini community of friends.
It started a year ago with Antonia and Sasha Basic, a couple from Croatia who have made Canberra their home.
Sasha, an agronomist, transferred his planting skills into the front yard, which then saw a surplus of tomatoes one year.
“We started selling them and then a few other houses joined,” Antonia says.
“It’s not for an income, it’s a community thing that brings people together through chemical-free produce.”
It expanded when Liam Lilly, the executive officer at SEE-Change met Sasha and Antonia at a local food co-op.
Liam introduced them to Transition Streets, a program set up by SEE-Change as a way for neighbours and friends to come together and support each other to reduce their ecological footprint, save money and be more connected.
SEE-Change helped the street fund a small shed with an “honesty box” system used for payments. It’s an unattended shed where food is put out on Saturday and is always left empty by Sunday.
“We collect produce on Fridays, leave prices up and a piggy bank out so people can leave money and then go happily home,” Sasha says.
After arriving in Australia three years ago with two children, Sasha and Antonia felt as though they’d landed “on the right spot”.
But there was just one thing missing, community.
And now with a teenager in year 10 named Mara and four-year-old Rosa, both Sasha and Antonia wanted their neighbours to become their family as it was back in Croatia.
“Neighbourhood and community are very important. Our neighbours are more like relatives,” Antonia says.
“In Croatia we felt safe to leave our kids with the neighbours, we would even celebrate birthdays together.
“Our intention is to bring that spirit from the Croatian community here.”
And it seems as though their spirit has already started to spread. The couple, guided by the Transition Streets program, has already hosted crepe nights and has brought together other neighbours through gardening.
Visitors hoping to get their hands on some chemicalfree produce will most likely see Rosa running back and forth in between her parents’ house and the Croatian lady’s house across the road.
The street is slowly becoming a family that continues to grow and Liam believes that this will add to a stronger social well being for people living in Gilruth Street.
“The isolation that some people can feel leads to many problems,” he says.
“You hear about those stories when people die in their house and they’re not found for weeks.”
Liam says that anyone can begin a Transition Street: “All you need is someone willing to champion the project for your neighbourhood and to kick-off the first meeting.”
Transition Streets work like a book club where each month the groups meet and decide what changes they can make together to their lifestyles.
To start a Transition Street visit see-change.org.au or call 0403 764230.
Since 1993: Volume 23, Number 14
Arts & Entertainment 19-21
Cinema 20
Dining 21
Crossword 23
Gardening 22
Horoscopes 23
Letters 6
News 3-9
Politics 6
Socials 18
Sport 6
Cover: Soprano Shu-Cheen Yu. Story Page 19.
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It matters to me that your Personal Injury claim is settled fairly and quickly.
Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers can win you compensation and secure your future.
When it matters, contact Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers.
There could be a silver lining though to the dark grey nimbus forming. The mass migration of one section of society may enhance the comfort of another.
A MEANINGLESS and often shifty phrase is echoing around places where Canberra public servants gather to “socialise”.
“Getting On With the Job”, ordinarily a deep scrape of the political barrel, is being used by a group, differently, but still drenched in dishonesty.
“Getting On With the Job” (GOWTJ) is the theme of scripted “talking points” supplied to anxious employees of the Australian Medicines Pesticides and Veterinary Authority (APVMA) to help shut down barbecue and dinner party discussions on the authority’s relocation to Armidale. The options were given to all staffers, regardless of whether they were staying put, relocating to Armidale or undecided.
BUT just as quickly as the catchy GOWTJ gained notoriety it became
obsolete. The government now wants all departments to justify their presence in the capital, which will require a longer list of “talking points”. While GOWTJ may have been deemed sufficiently pithy for dealing with shifting a few hundred public servants from Canberra to Armidale, relocating more departments and agencies, impacting possibly thousands of people, is a whole other “conversation”.
THERE could be a silver lining though to the dark grey nimbus forming. The mass migration of one section of society may enhance the comfort of another.
A local community activist has floated an idea that could solve the city’s homeless problem. Kim Fischer says the Federal government has identified 200,000 square metres of unoccupied Commonwealth floor space in Canberra. With the additional vacant office spaces potentially created by relocation the district’s estimated 1500 homeless could be easily and economically housed. Ms Fischer says all that is required is
“the vision to make it happen”.
LOYAL listeners to Canberra’s conduit for conservative commentary, 2CC, may have been confused recently by Alan Jones and Ray Hadley. A year after anointing Scott Morrison as the next PM Hadley punted the Treasurer from his program and installed former PM Tony Abbott . Meanwhile Jones was recommending something akin to a “thorough thrashing” at the ballot box as the
only means of the LNP coming to its senses. Strange days, indeed.
STILL on the wireless and we have a new #1 FM breakfast crew. Hit 104.7’s Ryan and Tanya leapt 2.7 per cent to 16.2 per cent.
The biggest loser of GfK’s first sampling of the district’s listening habits for 2017 was the ABC. Despite plunging 2.7 per cent, new breakfast host Dan Bourchier starts with a 17.5 per cent share and overall #1
(his predecessor Phil Clark regularly posted 20-23 per cent audience shares). Over at 2CC, early-rising, steak-knife salesman Tim Shaw rose slightly to 5.4 per cent but has failed to threaten predecessor Mark Parton’s ratings PB of 7.3 per cent. Mix106.3 FM is overall market leader, up an impressive 5.4 per cent to 21.6 per cent
THE co-organiser of a recent Canberra town hall meeting featuring Bill Shorten has taken the concept further by proposing an extra public holiday.
Member for Fenner Andrew Leigh says “Deliberation Day” (held only during an election year) would be a chance for people to ponder politics and debate issues in the local community and the nation’s future. Dr Leigh says he borrowed the idea from US academics Bruce Ackerman and James Fishkin, saying it “builds off the notion of town hall meetings, which have seen an upsurge in attendance in the States recently”.
AT 21 years of age and with dreams of being an NRL referee, Canberran Brian Cobb’s career took a sharp detour. A role in a training video set Cobb off on the long and often rewardless journey of filmmaking. Last Sunday, on his 40th birthday, the producer hosted the world premiere of his feature film “Indigo Lake” at Dendy. The picture, which was shot in Sydney, is written and directed by Martin Simpson and stars another Canberran, Miranda O’Hare
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Call our friendly reception team for more information or to book in for any of the above services.
Do you know that from 1st February 2018 codeine will no longer be available over the counter at your pharmacy?
• Codeine is highly addictive and withdrawal symptoms can be severe We can help you develop a plan to stop taking this medication and learn more effective pain management strategies that put you in control.
Our experienced multidisciplinary team can assist you with this under the guidance of our pain and rehabilitation specialists Dr Geoffrey Speldewinde and Dr Keith Chan, who can review your condition with a referral from your GP.
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By Kathryn Vukovljak
HELPING kids to wind down, share their feelings in a safe space, meditate and be present is the focus of a new mindfulness course for children, say facilitators Dr Rebecca Jackson and mindfulness tutor Susan Olsen.
Rebecca and Susan say they saw how stressed their own children and those in their social circle were feeling and wanted to use their skills to create a child-appropriate mindfulness course.
“They’ve got a lot on their plates and, as I’d started mindfulness myself a few years ago, I could see how helpful it would be for our children,” says Susan.
Rebecca and Susan have created “A Still Quiet Place Canberra”, an eightweek mindfulness course for kids, run in Acton during term time, which they say helps enhance kids’ emotional resources to meet emotional challenges, old and new.
As a psychologist, Rebecca says she sees kids who have reached breaking point, who are anxious, depressed and overwhelmed.
“They’re coming into the practice and I’m teaching mindfulness techniques one-on-one, but I could see that if they had these skills before,
they may not have got to that place,” she says.
Based on Dr Amy Saltzman’s program “A Still Quiet Place”, which was developed based on teaching mindfulness at schools, Rebecca says the program helps children observe their breath, body, thoughts, feelings and the world around them.
“We’ve used her concepts and added our own spin from our own training,”
she says. “It’s quite organic though, and we’re led by what the kids bring to talk about.
“They’re unpacking their day in a healthy way, in a supportive environment, where they can express what they’re feeling – and then hearing, ‘that happened to me today, too’ is just so valuable.”
The benefits of a group setting are huge, say Susan and Rebecca, with the shared experience in a group helping kids feel a part of a community.
“It’s so comforting for them, and you can see it,” says Susan.
“Their brains are so wired to learn these techniques, and it’s going to be amazing for them to be able to take this forward in their lives.”
The group includes meditations, mindful eating and discussions on what thoughts and feelings are.
“Your mind is never silent – its job is to always think,” says Susan.
“We talk about how you don’t have to act on your thoughts, give them energy or believe everything your mind is saying, because then you create it. It’s something we all wish we had known at a younger age.”
There are currently two courses available, one for six to 10-year-olds and a teenage group from 11-16. Rebecca says they are also taking the course
to schools for younger kids aged four to seven, are planning a two-day school holidays program, and a session for kids and parents together.
“Mindfulness is science-backed now and it’s been proven that it can change the brain, increase resilience, improve academic performance, help manage stress and anxiety, improve sleep and helps kids navigate friendships and conflict resolution better,” says Susan.
“I look forward to the class every week, because I can see that it impacts these kids in a profound way and they really enjoy it, too.”
Rebecca says she loves teaching kids that the still quiet place is in all of us, and you can find it just by breathing.
“It’s empowering for them because you don’t need any special equipment, and it’s accessible at any time, anywhere. It protects you from anxiety because it’s within you, all the time,” she says.
“It’s one of the first times I’ve worked in preventative health, and it feels like it’s actually got the ability to prevent people from that pathway where their struggles become so much bigger and more entrenched.”
Visit korrorook.com/mindful-selfcompassion-mindfulness-meditation
BOTANIST Dr Rosemary Purdie will seek to expose the treasures of the Black Mountain woodland during a generally easy, two-hour walk (with some steep sections and rough ground) and talk about how the area has changed over the years. Participants armed with water, snacks, sturdy shoes, hat and sun cream should meet at the Caswell Drive eastern car park at 9.30am on Friday, April 28. The cost is a gold-coin donation to the Friends of Black Mountain and places can be reserved by emailing friendsofblackmountain@gmail.com or calling 0437 298711.
CANBERRA historian Alan Foskett will be regaling the ladies of the Weston Creek VIEW Club with stories at their next lunch meeting at the Southern Cross Club, Woden, on Tuesday, May 2. Visitors and new members welcome. Lunch is $28 and bookings to 6288 7625.
THE Fetherston Gardens Friends are hosting guided tours of the old CIT Weston Heritage Arboretum, 10am-2pm, on Saturday, May 6. There will also be a plant stall, a history display, a sausage sizzle and a children’s garden activities tent. Admission is free and the guided tours are at 11am, noon and 1pm. The gardens are at Fetherston Place, off Heysen Street, Weston.
CANBERRA Soft Tissue Therapy is celebrating its first birthday with an open day at its Mitchell clinic (6/189 Flemington Road), 1pm-5pm, on Saturday, April 29. It will feature postural assessments, Bowen Therapy, yoga, pilates and exercise physiology. Just turn up or pre-book a session via info@canberrasofttissuetherapy.com
THE Lyons Early Childhood School’s outdoor play area will be the beneficiary of its P&C’s “Heritage Fete” at the school, 38 Tarraleah Crescent, 10am-2pm, on Saturday, May 6. It will feature a jumping castle, a merry-goround, a sausage sizzle, secondhand stall, silent auction and a heritage play area.
NO experience or partners needed at Folk Dance Canberra’s Greek Dance Party at the Hackett Community Centre, 114 Maitland Street, 2pm-4.30pm, on Saturday, May 6. Cost is $15 and a contribution to afternoon tea is always welcome. More information at 6231 4472 or email folkdancecanberra@gmail.com
SENATOR Fiona Nash, the Minister for Regional Development, argues effectively for a decentralised public service to drive sorely needed regional growth and breathe new life into rural Australia.
However, is the cost to the national capital just too great?
The greatest challenge for this approach to decentralising the public service by the current government is the Abbott legacy of slashing the public service. Slashing 16,500 public service jobs was announced in the 2014 Budget alone. And this came on top of public service freezes over multiple Budgets. The impact on Canberra’s growth and the local economy was dramatic and recovery a long time coming.
And now the Federal government has launched another major attack on Canberra. As “The Canberra Times” headline declared with an unflattering photo of Senator Nash, “The War on Canberra”. Her speech at the National Press Club revealed Fiona Nash’s passion for the Australian bush and her commitment to turning around the decline of regional and rural towns. Her response to “The Canberra Times” headline on her own Facebook page was telling: “I won’t be taking a backward step”.
Putting yourself in the shoes of another is always challenging. Canberrans have the right to expect that the Coalition government should understand the impact that the cuts previously made to the public service and its multiplier effect had a serious, direct impact on employment throughout the ACT.
However, as Canberrans, we should also try to put ourselves in the shoes of regional and rural Australians. As the Minister stated: “Regional Australians deserve the careers, benefits and flow on jobs which government departments offer”.
She added: “Those who think only cities deserve the benefits of government departments need to explain why they think
Why is it that any but the most senior people in policy areas need to be singled out to be close to government at all times?
country people don’t deserve, or aren’t good enough for, a career in a government department.”
To her credit, Senator Nash has declared an appropriate procedure of assessing which departments, or sections of departments, are suitable for moving to regional areas. Following the disastrous announcement of the move of the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority from Canberra to Armidale it is clear a much better process is needed. That case was simply “pork barrelling” by Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce and is already having significant negative staffing consequences.
As part of the process, she has made clear that she would be “creating a template for government ministers to assess which departments are suitable for decentralisation”.
The regionalisation move would not include “policy” sections of departments. This doesn’t really make much sense to me. Why is it that any but the most senior people in policy areas need to be singled out to be close to government at all times? Or is it that policy gurus are the ones advising her?
Additionally, the Minister attempted to use the “you-owe-me” argument: “After all, regional Australia supplies the water, food, electricity and gas which powers our cities. City people should thank regional Australia for their way of life.”
This is not a strong argument. The alternative view is that rural and regional people owe Canberra for the effective government
oversight and management of taxation, higher education, the environment, agriculture and fisheries, health and much, much more.
Understanding the issues is really about putting yourself in the shoes of the other.
While Australia has twice the percentage of public servants based in the capitals as the US and UK, it is possible to decentralise the public service. However, having built Canberra as the specific centre for government, Australians should also respect the role, the importance and the iconic nature of the national capital.
ACT Senator Zed Seselja, although Assistant Minister for Social Services and Multicultural Affairs in the Coalition government, has attempted to find an alternative suggestion to protect Canberra by targeting public servants in places such as Sydney and Melbourne. He pointed out that “most DHS employees are outside the ACT at the moment because they are about direct service delivery.”
Rural Australia does need an injection of jobs and economic growth. However, it should not be at the cost of yet again cutting public service numbers in Canberra.
Michael Moore was an independent member of the ACT Legislative Assembly (1989 to 2001) and was minister for health.
OKAY, it’s taken a while to ready myself for this moment, but I have to confess to joining the ranks of the Lycra-clad cycling brigade.
I disclose this with a little reservation given that some sectors of the motoring community seem to regard cyclists as public enemy number one.
Despite having been on the roads for six months or so, I have received more abuse as a cyclist than I have over the 28 years as a sports commentator.
In Canberra we should be rejoicing in the fact that we are home to many world-ranked cyclists such as Michael Rogers, Michael Matthews, Mathew Hayman and Rebecca Wiasak, yet some begrudge the fact that cyclists are even on the road. Is it because cyclists are perceived as slowing the traffic flow?
If people weren’t cycling there would be more cars on the road and the commute would become even more frustrating. There are also the health benefits of cycling that help to keep a percentage of the population out of the hospital system.
I have received more abuse as a cyclist than I have over the 28 years as a sports commentator.
The abuse from motorists seems to be for no apparent reason. Sure, there are some cyclists who flout the road rules but from my observation, as a motorist and now as a cyclist, they are very much in the minority. Yet, for some in vehicles, all cyclists represent a target.
I agree there’s nothing worse than walking on the footpath and having a cyclist bear down, seemingly with the mindset that they own the space; or circumstances when cyclists use the road when there is a perfectly functional cycling lane running parallel. There are also circumstances where cyclists create a dangerous situation by running a red light or ride three abreast.
MICHAEL Moore’s column (“Worried pollies chase cures for health neglect”, CN April 13) speaks of the Fitzharris health symposium in Canberra and states that “there remain significant gaps in health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as well as for migrants and refugees”.
I am disappointed that the situation
for people with severe mental health problems appears to have been overlooked.
I understand that their health outcomes – and life expectancy – is actually worse than for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Maureen Bell, via email
THERE is growing evidence that the drug-drive problem is increasing.
For example, on December 16, Peter Malinauskas, SA’s Minister for Police and Correctional Services, announced that between 2011 and 2015, 22 per cent of drivers or riders killed on South Australian roads tested positive for THC, methamphetamine, ecstasy or a combination of these drugs.
Unlike alcohol-related deaths, this number was not decreasing.
It would be good news if the ACT had a different trend but the ABC online news of January 31 revealed police were
nabbing 12 times more Canberrans for drug-driving than four years ago in a trend experts say is sweeping the country. The illicit drug situation is horrendous – and our kids are dying while all our governments do is stand like kangaroos caught in the glare of policy headlights.
Write to us
Colliss Parrett, Barton Letters are invited from “CityNews” readers. Let loose to: editor@citynews.com.au or
There we have it, the list of the major grievances expressed to me over the years by motorists about cyclists.
I suggested a couple of weeks ago that motorists going for their licence and licence renewals should undergo some form of cycling simulation by sitting on a stationary bike to see what life’s like for a cyclist when a car, truck or bus comes too close.
Interestingly enough, such an experiment took place in Canberra earlier this year with bus and truck drivers undertaking a cycling simulation experience. The bottom line is this: common sense must prevail from both parties with an acceptance from drivers that cyclists are not the enemy. This would be a good start to shared road use.
My wife and I decided to be tourists in Sydney. We set one simple rule: we would avoid locations we’d done on previous trips.
DO you – as a Canberran – ever think about Sydney as a tourist destination?
I’ve been there more times than I can count for various reasons and, yes, sometimes I’ve included tourist destinations, but I’d never been to our “global city” as a tourist.
So when the opportunity arose to parlay a one-day business trip into a four-day break, my wife and I decided to be tourists in Sydney. We set one simple rule: other than for the Royal Easter Show, we would avoid locations we’d done on previous trips to Sydney. First up – accommodation. Sydney accommodation prices have risen dramatically in recent years, especially close to the CBD if you want a certain standard. We went hunting and picked up a good deal at the Rydges Sydney Central, which used to be one of the famous Sebel properties in Sydney. There was even a book detailing the story of the now-closed Sebel in our room.
I won’t dwell further on the hotel other than to say there are renovations taking place to bring all rooms up to 2017 standards.
After arriving late Monday afternoon, we dined at R K San in Surry Hills. This was the best Japanese I’ve
experienced since visiting Japan a couple of years ago. It’s not 100 per cent Japanese cuisine – there are clever elements of fusion with Australian and other cultures, crafted under the hand of a Nepalese-born chef – but for flavour, presentation and creativity, I couldn’t find fault.
A couple of highlights: a dish called “The Cigar” – tuna sashimi encased in fine pastry, served with a malto “ash” and sushi made with a crispy fish skin instead of the more regular nori roll covering. All this at a $10 cab fare from Central Station.
Tuesday was business in the morning, and tourism resumed that afternoon. Despite lingering showers, we took the hop-on, hop-off Sydney Explorer on-top buses. There are two fleets, one does the city sightseeing loop, the other to Bondi and back. Tickets, good for 24 or 48 hours, let you board and depart either bus as often as you like during that time.
In short, these are a great way to see the city. Had we been on a oncein-a-lifetime trip to Sydney, we would have been on and off the city loop at almost every stop around Darling Harbour, Circular Quay and the
Opera House, but as we were taking things in a more leisurely fashion, we soaked up some new knowledge of Sydney via the on-board commentary. Tuesday night was Darling Harbour for dinner. Tricky, due to previous visits, but we discovered numerous restaurants on the waterfront at the Harbourside Shopping Centre, almost all offering a dinner special with the bonus of a great view of the Sydney CBD across the water.
On Wednesday we hit the Explorer Buses
again, this time to Bondi and surrounds and, yes, stroll on the famous beach, which was much smaller than I thought it would be.
It was amazing how quickly the day passed as we took in the sights, and some of the opulence on display around Sydney’s eastern suburbs. With a big day looming, a relaxing Wednesday evening was called for.
We looked at a dinner cruise, but opted for a ferry to Manly, where a small restaurant called Jamtown had been recommended to us. It was worth the trip. Ten minutes after disembarking, we were sipping rum-based cocktails, followed by Caribbean-inspired dishes with reggae beats completing the mood and complementing the dishes.
We topped off our evening by returning to Circular Quay on the fast ferry, sitting in the open air, under the stars, watching the Harbour Bridge get ever closer.
So, did I enjoy the Sydney tourist experience? Yes. Did I learn anything? Yes – primarily, that it is a nice place to visit, but I wouldn’t really want to live there. I’m too much a dyed-in-thewool Canberra boy now.
Chris Coleman presents “Canberra Live”, 3pm-6pm, weekdays on 2CC. He also has a podcast called “Travel First” avail able at bitesz.com
A sublime rail journey aboard the most luxurious train exploring Ecuador and the first luxury sleeper train crossing the Altiplano of Peru. This is a journey of extreme contrast, from the Pacific coast to the majestic Andes, exploring ancient Inca kingdoms, indigenous villages, colourful markets and savouring the best Andean-inspired cuisine.
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TERMS & CONDITIONS: Price is per person, twin share
• Price excludes taxes & surcharges (approx. $1,016 pp)
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By Kathryn Vukovljak
FACILITIES at the historic Glenburn Precinct at Kowen Forest are being added to make it easier for visitors to navigate the area, says amateur historian Col McAlister.
“More than 20 route markers have already been installed, which direct visitors to most of the historic sites here,” he says.
Col says he’s part of a volunteer group, Friends of Glenburn, through the National Parks Association of the ACT, that has been working with the ACT Parks and Conservation Service to carry out protection and conservation on some of the early European sites in the area, including Glenburn homestead, the ruins of Collier’s homestead and orchard and Coppins homestead.
“There’s still work to be done on making some of the sites safe and secure,” he says.
“We have been working on ‘capping’ the ruins, which prolongs the life of them by 40-plus years and protects them from the elements.
“It’s a hugely fascinating spot, settled by Europeans in 1831 with evidence remaining of the community they built there.”
These include the graves of the Colverwell girls, who drowned aged five and six in the nearby creek in 1837, and are the oldest marked graves in the ACT, a dilapidated shearing shed and the three homesteads.
There’s also evidence of an 1878 trigonometrical station for land surveys and mapping, the site of 12 charcoal kilns that produced charcoal for burners to produce gas to run Commonwealth vehicles during World War II, and the site of a public school that operated from 1882 to 1906, says Col.
Col says there will be three walking trails of varying difficulty and lengths – the Glenburn Heritage Trail, the Glenburn Trail and the Burbong Trail, with green, blue and red markers for visitors to follow.
“There are also a series of new interpretive signs, with information on how the early settlers lived, worked and played,” he says.
Col says the Glenburn Precinct, located in Kowen Forest, was added to the ACT Heritage Register in November 2015.
For more information, visit npaact. org.au under Friends of Glenburn. Access is restricted because the site is located in a commercial pine forest. Pedestrian and cycle access is via the locked gate at the intersection of Charcoal Kiln Road and the Kings Highway, about 1km past the bridge over the Queanbeyan to Goulburn railway line. Group visits can be arranged.
Contact Col McAlister on 6288 4171 or cvmac@grapevine.com.au
By Danielle Nohra
IN 1962 a protest over a toilet block saw 600 students taken, by their parents, from a Catholic school in Goulburn and placed in public schools nearby.
The toilet blocks desperately needed an upgrade, so parents banded together to raise awareness of the state government’s lack of funding.
After just a week it was over and Our Lady of Mercy Primary School received its new toilet block.
Stories such as this highlight the importance of parent advocacy within schools says APFACTS president Hugh Boulter.
In fact, Hugh says: “It takes a village to raise a child and I choose to be in that village.”
APFACTS is the peak, nongovernment-school, parent voice for the ACT, built by parents for parents to have an active voice in education issues.
“Being engaged with the community helps you understand what’s going on in your children’s lives,” Hugh says.
The executive officer of APFACTS, Linda Fleming, says she sees the importance for parental contribution to the school community, by either being on a Parents
& Friends committee or assisting in projects and providing learning assistance.
“It gives me a connectedness with the school and when my children come home talking about things I understand and can contribute,”
Linda says.
It’s been particularly helpful with one of Linda’s children who, like an increasing number these days, struggles with anxiety.
“On a communication level, if a teacher doesn’t know they’ve only got half the picture,” she says.
“If you’re open and respectful with teachers, they’ll help the ‘average kid’ that just plods along grow into a more confident person.”
Linda says she has witnessed her child transform from battling with homework to happily making a habit of the daily process.
“For me, my underlying philosophy is developing a good relationship in the community,” Linda says.
“The ways you can extend this are talking to your children, volunteering on school barbecues and talking to the teaching staff in a respectful way.
“We don’t have a four-year degree in teaching, we need to respect them.”
A recent win for APFACTS was its contribution to fixing a bus issue at Daramalan College.
“APFACTS set up a survey on school bus services for member schools and as a result Daramalan ended up with the times altered for four bus routes,” Linda says.
TAMS had the wrong start time for school, so children were running late.
“It was a difference of five minutes,” she says. “If we focus on buses and all the extra stuff that schools are burdened with then that gives the school more of a chance to focus on education issues.”
A typical Parents & Friends committee meets once to twice a term but, Hugh says, because of today’s society, they’ve made it more flexible to be a volunteer.
“With changes in society, we have two parents working because of the costs of living in Canberra,” he says.
“Volunteers don’t even have to come to meetings, there’s other things they can do.”
Call 6287 3538 or email membership@apfacts.org.au
THIRTY minutes of planning can save hours of worrying when it comes to the daily question of: “What’s for dinner tonight?”. Without a little bit of meal planning we are left victim to what’s available and convenient, which is often highly processed, low in vegetables and not so good for long-term health. So, to help take the pressure off, here are my six steps to healthy meal planning:
1. Set some time. Book some time and space to plan your week. Grab a pen, paper, recipe books and/or the internet. This little bit of time and effort goes a long way.
2. Plan in your plans! Are you going out to dinner one night? Do you have after-work commitments such as social sport or a kid’s activity? All of these things affect the time to prepare a healthy meal. If you know you’re going to be out, there’s no point planning to cook an elaborate meal. Be realistic about what you can achieve.
3. Check what’s in the fridge/freezer/ pantry. Are there things that need to be used up before they go off? Can some money be saved by using what’s already in the pantry? 4. Pick realistic meals. This can be a great opportunity to get the family involved and help to share the workload. There’s also evidence to suggest that getting kids involved in meal planning and preparation improves their food skills, Take inspiration from recipe books, websites and blogs. Don’t make your plan unachievable by putting in new, challenging recipes every night. Maybe
keep several staple meals that are easy to prepare and try just one or two new recipes a week. This way you can slowly expand your repertoire.
5. Check your veg. Does each of your dinner meals have half a plate of vegetables? This is a foolproof way of getting a nutritious meal. If the recipe you’ve picked is a one-pot dish without much vegetable (such as lasagne or pasta carbonara) think about how to dish it up with some extra veg. Can you grate some zucchini into the meal or serve it with half a plate of salad?
6. Create a shopping list and stick to it! Once you know what you want to cook, you can figure out what needs to be bought for the whole week and stock the fridge, freezer and pantry with all the necessities. Again, this will save you time, money and a trip down the confectionary aisle.
Voila! This weekly ritual has saved me countless hours of worry and helps me to eat a balanced meal each night of the week. Oh, and be sure to keep old meal plans. They can make for a nice fall back when you are running low on motivation and inspiration!
Clare Wolski is a practising dietitian at The Healthy Eating Hub, call 6174 4663.
WINTER fashion will be on display when the Zonta Club of Canberra hosts a high tea at the Burrunju Aboriginal Gallery, 245 Lady Denman Drive, Yarramundi Reach, 2pm-4pm on Sunday, May 7. Funds raised go to Canberra women’s shelters and the Street to Home program. Tickets, at $40, via zontacanberra@gmail.com or eventbrite.com.au
KAREN Groves, founder of Successful Alliances, has made the finals of two Australian Accounting Awards – Bookkeeper of the Year and Bookkeeping Firm of the Year. The awards showcase excellence across professional accounting. The winners will be announced in Sydney at an awards dinner on Friday, May 26. Karen won Business Woman of the Year, Canberra Women in Business (2013), and was a finalist in the Business Owner Category, Telstra Business Women’s Awards (2014).
THE Corvettes of Canberra Club vice-president, Terry Ruse, won three of the club’s seven awards from the annual Corvette Nationals, this year held in western Sydney. He took first prize for the best Corvette C6 for his red 2010 Grand Sport model. His car was also voted best C6 Corvette overall by the judges and the people attending the Show n Shine. Second prize in the C6 personal category was won by another club member, Dave Rourke, for his yellow 2006 C6 Corvette ZO6. The first prize for Corvette C2 models went to the red 1967 Corvette Stingray owned by Anthony Steve. Judith Hlubucek won the prize for the fastest C6 in the Motorkhana speed and precision event at the Eastern Creek Speedway in her yellow 2010 Grand Sport convertible. She also won the award for the fastest lady driver at the Nationals.
SCHOOL open days and information evenings for Catholic, private or public schools are an important opportunity for parents and potential students to gain an insight into the everyday learning of Canberra’s educational centres.
Whether it be for children, teenagers or young adults, visitors can discover what each has to offer in 2017.
In conjunction with school open days, in the ACT and NSW, is Catholic Schools Week, which aims to raise awareness of Catholic schools and their strengths in between May 1-7. The week is designed to be a lively celebration for all who have a stake in schools, students, staff, families, priests, and parishioners.
A QUALITY education is one of the greatest gifts parents can give to their children according to the Catholic Education Office.
Catholic early learning centres and Catholic schools have the values of excellence, respect, integrity and equity at their core, built on the understanding that every human has an innate dignity.
During Catholic Schools Week (May 1-7), the Catholic Education Office invites people to visit Catholic schools and early learning centres to witness and help celebrate quality learning and faith formation.
While learning in innovative and student-oriented facilities, a child’s Catholic education will build on rich traditions and experience.
Enrolments for ACT Catholic schools and Catholic early learning centres are being accepted May 1-19.
Catholic Education Office. 52-54 Franklin Street, Manuka. Call 6234 5455, email enquiries@cg.catholic.edu.au or visit cg.catholic.edu.au
Preparing students to face the world
BEFORE its students step out of school and into adulthood Canberra Grammar School’s major focus is to create young adults who are ready for the world.
This applies to both boys and girls since Canberra Grammar School announced its transition in 2015 into co-education, following more than 80 years as a boys’ school.
Since the announcement, and as of this year, boys and girls have been learning together in classrooms from pre-school to year 5 in the primary school, and in years 7 and 11 in senior school.
From next year, Canberra Grammar School will be co-educational across all years from pre-school to year 12.
Additionally, in 2015, Canberra Grammar School’s early learning centre, pre-kindergarten and out-of-hours programs received ratings that “exceed the national standard” and in 2016 was also fully authorised to offer the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme.
Canberra Grammar School is an Independent Anglican School offering a combined choice of over 60 subjects across all programs, including the option for alternative pathways.
Canberra Grammar School’s goal is “educating locally, thinking globally” with its outstanding academic education, co-curricular opportunities and pastoral care to day and boarding students of all backgrounds and faiths within a community guided by Christian values.
The open day and year 11 and 12 academic expo for Canberra Grammar School is on April 27.
Canberra Grammar School. Call 6260 9744, email admissions@cgs.act.edu.au or visit cgs.act.edu.au
ST Edmund’s College Canberra, a Catholic School in the “Edmund Rice” tradition, has been educating boys from year 4 to year 12 for more than 60 years. Since 1954, the college has seen more than 11,000 boys grow into fine young men with generations of families passing through the halls.
The college strives to deliver a holistic Christian education for boys, which incorporates academic, faith, sporting and extracurricular pursuits.
It believes in preparing boys for life, helping them focus on their strengths and better themselves as individuals in the years they spend at the college.
The college offers an extensive choice of subjects, a wide variety of cocurricular options, sporting and cultural, and the opportunity to engage with
the community through social-justice programs.
The college believes the relevance of what the boys are learning is particularly important, so the curriculum continually evolves to reflect the changing academic, career and trade opportunities.
When boys attend St Edmund’s, their families become a part of the vibrant and diverse community, creating an atmosphere that extends beyond the school ground.
St Edmund’s College will have two sessions during its open day on May 6.
St Edmund’s College Canberra. 110 Canberra Avenue, Griffith. Call 6295 3598, email reception@stedmunds.act.edu.au or visit stedmunds.act.edu.au
AS Canberra’s largest secondary school, St Mary MacKillop College has room to stay true to its mission to be a Catholic school for all.
Located across two campuses in the Tuggeranong Valley, MacKillop welcomes boys and girls, including students from a range of different faiths, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
MacKillop provides a wide range of curriculum options, extensive facilities, and a huge range of sports and co-curricular choices.
According to College captain Grace Bowyer, the wide range of opportunities for all students means that there’s something for everyone at MacKillop.
“There are so many different people to meet and so many things to do at MacKillop, there’s something for every interest,” says Grace.
“I have discovered new interests, learnt new skills and I’ve been lucky to be involved in leadership, competitions, fundraising, sport, music performances, overseas trips, our cross-campus programs and lots of different subjects.
“These opportunities have helped me to be the person I am today.”
St Mary MacKillop College will hold its Year 7 2018 Information Night at the Wanniassa Campus from 6.30pm on Monday, May 1.
St Mary MacKillop College. Mackinnon Street, Wanniassa. Call 6209 0100 or email info@mackillop.act.edu.au
VISITORS at Merici College’s open day on May 7 will see the place in full swing, according to its principal Loretta Wholley.
“You can visit classes, watch teachers guide and support our students while they learn, get involved in activities or taste delicious meals prepared by our hospitality classes,” Loretta says.
Merici College is an all-girls tailored school that runs a pastoral care system that focuses on issues facing young women in the world and teaching them skills and strategies needed to deal with these challenges.
Merici College prides itself on an academic program that meets the needs of every student.
“Our goal is to create an environment that challenges each student to take risks
and achieve individual excellence,” Loretta says.
This year Merici’s focus is on the digital and design technologies and is increasing its participation in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and maths) projects.
“We are also proud of our structured Christian Service Learning program, where girls volunteer in the community and apply for their Blue, Red and Gold Angel Wings,” Loretta says.
“We are very excited this year as we are about to embark on refurbishments to the auditorium, eight science labs and the Limestone Avenue façade.”
Merici College open day. Wise Street, Braddon. Call 6243 4100, email principal.merici@merici. act.edu.au or visit merici.act.edu.au
Canberra Grammar School is now enrolling girls and boys for
Find out more at one of our Open Days:
THE University of Canberra Senior Secondary College, Lake Ginninderra, or Lake G, prides itself on the values of its students and teachers.
Deputy principal Gerard Barrett says these values include a sense of responsibility to learn from oneself, commitment to succeed, respect for self and for others, as well as enthusiasm to continually develop skills for life.
The college also prides itself on its commitment to the individual through the pastoral care system, which endeavours to allocate to each student the degree of support needed for them to develop personally as individuals and achieve academic and vocational success.
“Lake G is different to other schools in its emphasis on educating the whole student,” Gerard says.
“The academic, social-emotional, physical and work preparation for students is offered in equal measures to students to give them the opportunity to become the best person they can be.”
Lake G’s open night will display all information on the courses available to year 11 and 12 students, give visitors the chance to meet teachers, see the facilities of the college in action and listen to the principal, Martin Watson speak about college.
This year is the 30th anniversary of the college and, as part of open night, the year books of the past 30 years will be on display.
THE University of Canberra Senior Secondary College, Lake Ginninderra. 2 Emu Bank, Belconnen. Call 6142 0222, email LakeG@ed.act.edu.au or visit lakeonline.act.edu.au
STAFF members at the small, friendly Catholic primary school in the heart of Canberra, St Thomas More’s, recognise that each student is unique.
“We’re a welcoming community that makes sure, in our teaching and learning, to be curious, collaborative and connected,” says the principal, Julie Wiley.
With about 50 per cent of St Thomas More’s students from Defence families, the school is familiar with the challenges these students experience and endeavour to create a secure environment of self-esteem and self-reliance.
The class structures consist of mainly multi-age groups except for kindergarten, which is in a single stream.
“Our Learning Support Team provides assistance to many students through the extension and enrichment for gifted and talented students in years 3 to 6,” Julie says. “They also assist by developing personal plans to support students with specific learning needs.”
During St Thomas More’s open day on May 8, there will be three guided tours at 9am, 2pm and 5pm.
St Thomas More’s Primary School. 24 White Crescent, Campbell. Call 6249 8869, email office.stmore@cg.catholic.edu.au or visit stmore.act.edu.au
LOCATED in Aranda, a short walk from Jamison Centre, St Vincent’s Primary is a community focused school that forms long-lasting friendships with its families.
“At St Vincent’s Primary School, families become part of a community which seeks positive well-balanced Christian values for their children,” says principal Lina Vigliotta.
“We set high standards for teaching and learning and achieve this through providing a creative curriculum, putting children at the heart of everything we do and working closely with the whole community.”
Late last year St Vincent’s secured a STEM Seed Grant enabling the school to purchase a class suite of programmable and adaptable mBots.
“Coding is exciting and provides an open-ended source for children to develop their creativity to code neural program nets used in artificial intelligence,” Lina says.
The mBots will be used in classrooms across the school utilising programming apps and the Scratch Program code languages. Coding and programming these mBots will require the children to take risks, problem solve, plan and adapt to reach set goals.
“These skills as with many others, are transferrable to all aspects of schooling,” Lina says.
This year, the school is also offering a Club4Kids sensory play class for preschoolers every Wednesday morning to complement its preschool experience and give the children and their parents an opportunity to get to know St Vincent’s and its community.
St Vincent’s Primary School. 3 Bindel Street, Aranda. Call 6251 2442, email office.svdp@cg.catholic.edu.au or visit svdp.act.edu.au
KINDERGARTEN – YEAR 6
Providing a creative curriculum, putting children at the heart of everything we do and working closely with the whole community.
St Vincent’s Primary School, families become part of a community which seeks positive well balanced Christian values for their children. It is a place where lasting friendships are established.
You’re welcome to join us while we showcase Merici
2:00-7:00pm Wednesday 3 May
YEAR 11 2018 INFORMATION EVENING
Thursday 11 May
6:00-7:15 pm
CAREERS
EXPO4-6PM
Thursday 11 May
YEAR 7 2018 INFORMATION EVENING
Tuesday 9 May 6:00-7:15pm
JOIN US FOR DINNER
EXPERIENCE THE BRIDGE RESTAURANT
4:00-8:00pm on Wednesday 3 May
BOOKINGS 6243 4100
ADDITIONAL SCHOOL TOUR 2:30PM SAT 6 MAY
— BE A — MERICI GIRL FOR A DAY
1, 8 or 11 MAY
At the Oriana Chorale’s 40th anniversary party, Acton At Orangetheory
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.
by
COVER STORY
By Helen Musa
CHINESE-born soprano Shu-Cheen Yu is one of many artists coming to town for the Canberra International Music Festival as director Roland Peelman turns a musical eye toward the great Chinese cultures to the north of us.
Yu will perform solo, but the festival will also feature the Chinese Oriental Orchestra, narration by William Yang, as musicians perform before the National Museum’s 50-metre Chinese-style scroll “Harvest of Endurance”, a new suite by Hing-yan Chan based on a Hong Kong wedding banquet and performances by the Ding Yi ensemble from Singapore, including one at Canberra Airport in celebration of direct flights from Singapore to Canberra.
Shu-Cheen Yu sings opera, oratorio, lieder and folk songs. She’s won 12 Opera Australia awards and in recent years has starred in “The King and I”, first as Tuptim and later as Lady Thiang, for which role the company raised the register by a half-key to fit her voice.
“I grew up in the theatre,” the animated Yu tells “CityNews” by phone from Melbourne.
“My parents were involved in the local
Shanxi Opera, and if they wanted a dog or a cat, they’d always ask me, so I became quite familiar with the theatre lighting, stage right and stage left, I have no fear on stage.”
She went on to train formally in the demanding Beijing Opera, which requires “so much patience – we must be dancers first, actors second and singers third… it takes a minimum of five to six years before you can do a reasonable job.”
In Beijing Opera, the female voice is placed very high, but before the Cultural Revolution she had discovered from listening to her parents’ Victoria de Los Angeles records that high voices are also valued in Western opera.
“I’ve done both,” she says, noting that there are extraordinary similarities between Beijing Opera and Baroque operas such as Monteverdi’s “The Coronation of Poppea”.
Yu’s path to the West was a roundabout one. There were relatively few Chinese operas, but she had discovered that if she sang folk music she had thousands of songs at her disposal, so became one of the top three folk singers in China, performing with the National Oriental Song and Dance Company over six years making five recordings.
“But I wasn’t satisfied,” she says, and with lots of Western contact in the ‘80s – she sang with George Michael and saw Pavarotti perform in “La Boheme”– she decided that singing folk music wasn’t enough.
“I wanted to develop my career, to sing better and learn Western opera, only
the Western opera would give me the scientific understanding of singing without a microphone.”
Moving to Australia in 1987, she took a degree in voice at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music and met music director Roland Peelman when she joined Sydney’s Song Company. She later moved to Melbourne to become, like her countryman, “Mao’s Last Dancer” Li Cunxin, an extraordinary mix of senior artist, businesswoman and cultural diplomat.
Yu is a property investment adviser and co-director with her Australian husband of her own company. She is her own agent and manages her own business as a singing teacher. “Out of the Ten Tenors, four were my students,” she boasts.
She has performed many times with Opera Australia, in classical concerts, and at private functions many times in Canberra, but never in public.
She also makes frequent visits to China and, when on scholarship at Covent Garden, in New York and Vienna, she contacted the Australian diplomatic missions to ask if they needed her to sing.
“When I come to Canberra I would like to see if I could perform at a Chinese embassy function,” Yu says. “Really, I’m serving both countries, bridging the two nations using music.”
Canberra International Music Festival, April 27-May 7, all bookings to cimf.org.au
By Helen Musa
LITERARY festivals are all the go in Australia and nowhere more obviously than in Canberra.
Readers will be aware of the Canberra Writers Festival launched in 2016, but not so many will know that all the while, another significant event has been going on in the form of Noted.
In early May it will be time for the third time round for Noted, which began as a small, homegrown event in 2015 and has now exploded into something quite significant with a staggering 100 writers putting their hands up to participate in 2017.
The festival is one of our luckier arts organisations in having received project funding from artsACT but nonetheless, as artistic director Lucy Nelson told “CityNews”: “We are a tiny team”. Be that as it may, they’re going ahead under the slogan “Inclusive, Innovative” with a program that would be the envy of larger events.
For instance, they’re spearheading “First Nations” and “Emerging Older Writers” residencies to make good their promise of inclusivity.
Nelson’s day job is as an arts marketing and communication officer for a large statutory body in Canberra. Of coming to Canberra seven years ago, she says: “I really loved the independent arts community in Canberra, it’s really special, and so I got involved as much as I could”. As well as doing some freelance writing, she started new events and Noted was one of them.
One of the first principles in setting up an event was to fill gaps.
“We noticed that the older people get, the richer their writing is because of their life experiences, but we don’t create much space for them,” she says.
Applying the fairness principle to the opposite end of the age spectrum, Nelson approached the Stella Prize office to set up, for the first time, “Girls
Write Up”, a day-long festival for teenagers to take place on May 6.
“It’s targeted to kids, arming them with the tools of the language to stand up for themselves, through workshops, panels, slam poetry, songwriting… it’s really exciting, they walk away armed with knowledge and confidence,” Nelson says, adding that for much younger visitors there will be a children’s area featuring workshops and activities.
While she reports a good list of “First Nations” writers, she says: “There are not enough, we must improve.”
To this end she and her team have engaged Delphine Fraser as creative producer in that area.
The successful applicant for the Emerging First Nations Writer’s Residency will spend a week with a mentor at the National Library of Australia, with accommodation in Canberra provided. As you’d expect, the festival abounds in unusual projects, such as a lecture about law, class and homosexuality at the Glebe Park public toilets in which artist Aidan Delaney looks at three case studies spanning from 1894 to 2013.
Another is a sculpture project, “Pulpture”, spearheaded by Blemish Books, Lesley Boland and Nicci Haynes, using the regrettably large number of unsold books by ACT writers to create a work of great beauty at the Tuggeranong Hyperdome.
Then there’s “Lots-o-Lingo!” where visitors can learn the basics from a native speaker who will help them write their name in Farsi, recite a French verse or order a beer in Polish.
Nelson says two flagship events will dominate the five-day program – the Independent Publishing Fair on Sunday, May 7, and “LitHop”, an epic bar crawl around Civic on May 6 pursuing literary themes.
Underlying the whole festival is the notion of empowerment. Nelson has noticed that so many of Canberra’s writers are reluctant to call themselves just that, “but the act of doing so empowers that – all you have to do to call yourself a writer is to write”.
Noted, around Canberra, May 3-7. Program details at notedfestival.com
May 1
• Chinese Oriental Orchestra performs “Red Dragon,” 11am, Chinese Gardens, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China.
May 2
• “Taking Flight”, Ding Yi Music Company and Chinese Oriental Orchestra, 11am, Canberra Airport Atrium.
• “The Lion’s Roar – Sounds of Singapore”, Ding Yi Music Company, 4pm, Ainslie Arts Centre.
May 3
• Shu-Cheen Yu performs Schubert, Shostakovich and Mozart, 6.30pm, Fitters’ Workshop.
May 4
• “Harvest of Endurance”, Chinese Oriental Orchestra, narration by William Yang, 6.30pm, National Museum of Australia.
May 5
• “The Education Revolution – Education in the Asian Century,” 11am-3.15pm, school music and forums at Canberra Grammar.
May 7
• “Farewell to Arms” suite by Hing-yan Chan based on a Hong Kong wedding banquet and Julian Yu’s orchestration of Mussorgsky’s “Pictures at an Exhibition”, 6.30pm-8:50pm, Fitters’ Workshop.
“Their Finest” (M)
DANISH director Lone Scherfig’s film takes us back to 1940 with a dramatisation of Lissa Evans’ novel ”Their Finest Hour and a Half”.
Britain’s alone in confrontation with Hitler’s mob. The rescue of the British troops from the beaches at Dunkirk is fresh in everybody’s memory.
A film company is busy making a movie about two sisters who, without permission, take their grandfather’s little boat across the Channel to help in the rescue. Catrin (Gemma Arterton) gets a job working on the script with Tom (Sam Claflin).
Learning of the project, the War Office offers to provide funding that will help convert the movie into a propaganda piece to persuade America to join Britain in the fight (in a cameo, Jeremy Irons makes a florid declamation of the tail end of the St Crispin’s Day speech). And on a film set in Devon, Catrin and Tom get writing. Scherfig’s cast includes Ambrose, an ageing actor whose whole being is suffused with his profession. In the movie he plays a minor role. In the film, his relationship with Catrin is a major structural element. His off-set life is desultory and dull. Her’s is uncomfortable – she and Tom are off-screen partners but she goes ballistic on finding another woman in bed with her artist husband in London.
The staccato dramatic rhythm to the outer film isn’t uncomfortable once Gaby Chiappe’s screenplay settles
down. Seeing how movies got made before the arrival of modern technology offers a special benefit. And the film has fun exploring the divide between cast and crew on the set.
Most of all, we have the absolute pleasure of watching Bill Nighy as Ambrose. And of hearing his light baritone performing the lovely song “Will ye go, Lassie, will ye go?” before cast and crew in the pub.
At Dendy, Palace Electric and Capitol 6
“Raw” (R)
BEFORE I saw writer/director Julia Ducournau’s film, I heard electronic media comment, whether apocryphal
or exaggerated, that it showed disgusting things. Many movies do that, exploitative, pandering to those who get their kicks from getting or inflicting pain, the more imaginative the better.
“Raw” is much more serious about its raison d’être. It begins on the campus of the veterinary department at a French university where the vegan parents of Justine (Garance Marillier) have dropped her off to start the academic year.
Being vegan veterinarians is the family tradition. Somewhere on campus is Justine’s older sister Alex (Ella Rumpf).
Ducournau takes no prisoners, pulls no punches in telling her audiences about the student life preparing young adults for futures as veterinarians. It’s unabashed cinematic depiction of an unforgiving brand of culture shock, preparing for a working life that may bring financial reward but imposes enormous stresses.
There’s more to doctoring animals than fixing Fido’s sore leg. Its environment can be dangerous, often working among unpleasant substances of animal origin to treat patients that can’t tell you what’s ailing them. You’ve got to be smart to become a vet.
For nearly two decades my wife and I lived among and were 24/7 involved with production animals. I could tell true stories about their health issues that could make you wince, throw up, smile at their success, weep when the only possible treatment had to be euthanasia. I could tell you about young women who came at zero notice bringing compassion and brilliant skills to help our animals. Those experiences certainly bias my attitude toward “Raw”. If it inflates human realities to burst the envelope of “nice”, it does so with a clear conscience and a truthful purpose.
At Capitol 6
“Berlin Syndrome” (MA)
BRISBANE girl Clare (Teresa Palmer) arrives in Berlin to photograph architecture for a magazine. On the sidewalk, she strikes up a conversation with Andi (Max Riemelt).
The meeting is the prologue to Australian filmmaker Cate Shortland’s third feature, of which the first puts a woman in danger from a sexual predator (“Somersault”) and the second puts a teenage girl in the hazardous situation of leading her younger siblings across Germany to distant safety with relatives after the end of the war to defeat Hitler. Ms Shortland is more than a one-trick pony, doing great things with the tricks her heroines must perform.
Based on a novel by Melanie Joosten, “Berlin Syndrome” is at its core a two-hander that really gets going in Andi’s apartment after a night of recreational bonks. No post-orgasmic lassitude for Andi. He’s off to the college where he teaches English. Clare awakes to find that the apartment door is locked. Okay, Andi’s gone to work and forgotten to leave the key. Oh, yeah?
The tensions build as Clare realises her predicament. The body of the plot deals with the slings and arrows of her outraged fortune before accepting that until she outsmarts Andi, there’s no way she’ll see what lies outside the front door. We quickly work out that he’s a good-looking predator both sexually and emotionally. Indeed, there are hints that Clare is not his first victim and that he’s already scouting among his students to find the next one.
Shortland’s filmography to this point is brief. Escapist, yes, like most fictionalised drama, but top-grade cinema that effectively achieves its objectives. Hard to ask for more.
At Palace Electric
National Library of Australia
Two performances: 9:30am and 11am
Australia’s favourite cheeky little koala comes to life in this storytelling performance, perfect for little possums aged 3-8.
Laugh along with the adventures of Blinky Bill and his friends - Nutsy, Splodge, Flap, Marcia and Mr Wombat – in a heart-warming musical tale featuring performers from Ensemble Offspring and children’s entertainer, Mr. Tim.
A kid’s show the whole family will enjoy!
THE very democratic Ukulele Republic of Canberra is celebrating 10 years of operation by holding a mini-uke festival called The Gang Gang Twang at the Ainslie Arts Centre, Elouera Street, Braddon, 1pm to 7pm, on Saturday, May 6. With more than 100 active members, the organisation stages jams at its meetups three times a month. Tickets at the door. Bring a loud shirt and/or hat to swap, they advise.
AUSSIE instrumentalists Aidan Roberts and Daniel Holdsworth will juggle more than 20 instruments live in “Tubular Bells for Two”, which looks back to Mike Oldfield’s 1973 composition of the same name. At The Street Theatre, May 5-7. Bookings to thestreet.org.au or 6247 1223.
ARTHUR Miller’s “A View from the Bridge”, written in 1955 as a modern “Greek tragedy”, has found contemporary relevance in recent years. Directed by Chris Baldock in his first directorial role with REP, it runs at Theatre 3, Repertory Lane, Acton, May 4-20. Bookings to canberrarep.org.au or 6257 1950.
“REVENGE is a dish best served cold,” say members of Canberra Opera as they prepare for their coming production of Strauss’ famous operetta “Die Fledermaus” (The Bat) in a new English translation
and musical arrangement by Ian Gledhill. It’s at Belconnen Community Theatre, May 4-14. Bookings to canberraopera.org.au
CANBERRA photographer Lori Cicchini has been invited to exhibit in Venice at a show called “Personal Structures”, organised by the Global Art Affairs Foundation and hosted by the European Cultural Centre in the context of the Venice Biennale. The exhibition, May 13-November 26, runs in various venues around Venice and Cicchini’s friends are organising a crowdfunding campaign to get her over there at gofundme.com
“MYSTICISM, Mortality and Monteverdi” is to be a concert performed by I Progetti chamber choir in tribute to Claudio Monteverdi’s 450th birthday. At the High Court, 1.30pm, Sunday, April 30. It’s free
but registration essential to hcourt.gov.au
“PEACE Works!” a “living peace memorial” in book form, will be launched by war scholar Joan Beaumont at the National Archives at 2pm, Saturday, May 6, as part of “Moving Beyond 1915 Remembrance”. The book project received an Anzac Centenary Local Grant and 130 public submissions were received, now represented in the 286-page publication, which will be available for purchase. All welcome.
“GORMAN Commons” is billed as Canberra’s “first and only” artsfocused co-working space. Located at Gorman Arts Centre, it’s aimed at providing space for individual artists, collectives, companies, emerging arts organisations and creative small businesses.
SOMETIMES ideas just pop into the head. Like the idea that popped into Kimberley Ohayon’s head while living in Italy.
“I loved the intimate, interesting and cosy Italian wine bars. I wanted to create something similar when I returned home,” says Kimberley. “After a great deal of thinking, it dawned on me that I could create a totally self-contained bar and pop-up around Canberra.”
The Pop Inn was 18 months in the making and self-contained it is. The trailer, 6.5-metres long and a whopping 3.2 tonnes, has been spotted around the capital at special spots such as Lennox Gardens, Telopea Park and Kingston Foreshore.
“Enlivening places that have lovely views or are just nice places to be is our aim,” says Kimberley, director of The Pop Inn.
“We try to stay for a couple of weeks at a time and enjoy meeting our ‘regulars’.”
Getting the design right had its challenges. Every millimetre is well thought through, beautifully designed and custom built, thanks to the support of many partners.
“I didn’t want to be a standard food truck serving guests from a tiny window. Instead, people can come in and feel like they’re inside a bar,” says Kimberley. Indeed, when fully opened up,
The Pop Inn looks exactly like a bar. Rows of wine glasses are displayed, several bar fridges are in full view and a small kitchen is set up for prepping cheese plates, serving wine and tidying. Bouquets of flowers
When fully opened up, The Pop Inn looks exactly like a bar. Rows of wine glasses are displayed, several bar fridges are in full view and a small kitchen is set up for prepping cheese plates and serving wine.
Kimberley Ohayon… “I loved the intimate, interesting and cosy Italian wine bars. I wanted to create something similar when I returned home.”
add pops – yes, pops – of colour.
The Pop Inn has about 30 chairs and tables at each venue and offers picnic rugs so folks can spread out. If you think this unique operation is only going to work during
warm weather, think again. The Pop Inn offers blankets to keep guests toasty warm, plans to serve mulled wines and ciders, and set up in protected locations. Cheese platters are on the menu, with Kimberley sourcing mainly from Mart Deli, Fyshwick Markets. The cheeses rotate to keep interest up and have included a marvellous Manchego with a rosemary rind, a delicious triple-cream cow’s milk cheese, and “Shadows of Blue”, a creamy, light and milder cheese. The Pop Inn even offers gluten-free crackers.
Wine offerings also vary and have included a Spanish tempranillo, a French rose and other international drops. Local wines come from vineyards such as Mount Majura, Gallagher Wines and Three Lads Wine.
The Pop Inn’s times vary, depending on location and weather. It usually opens Fridays at 5pm and weekends starting around 2pm. All you need to do is keep your eye on the website (thepopinn.com) and then “pop in”. The Pop Inn is credit card only.
IT’S a cold Saturday night and the usual trouble in finding a restaurant that offers gluten-free fare is once more confronted.
We wander and stumble across a Mexican restaurant in Kingston, Ciscos; the stumbling is metaphoric, no drinking yet. The options for those afflicted with gluten intolerance are many on the displayed menu posted in the window. We enter. We order and my son, the afflicted, orders a dish that he raves about. I’m underwhelmed.
We order a glass of sangria each. For my son, it is the icing on the Mexican cake. For me it is the coup de gras, a mercifully delivered blow to a culinary disappointment.
My son says: “Hmm, this is a delicious drink, but I have only had a sangria made with white wine before. I really like it with red wine. Is that usual? You know about these things.”
But I don’t. My thin veneer of expertise evaporates. I have no idea.
I say: “I have no idea.”
The conversation moves on. I drink more sangria. The brain cells, despite the alcohol, remember Spain. There’s fruit, definitely orange, soda water or only lightly sweetened lemonade I think, and a wine and a hint of spice I can’t discern. Oh, goodness, it’s like a mulled wine, something I recently wrote about. But it’s filled with ice and does indeed taste delicious, but all the flavours aren’t registering.
On the return to home, I consult Dr Google. A website I have looked at in the past, wineintro.com, confirms my ruminations: the famous Spanish drink is basically just a punch that can be made with red or white wine as one of its bases or even Cava, sparkling Spanish wine.
The website tells me that this concoction is typically created from red wine, fruit juices, soda water, fruit and
Oh, goodness, it’s filled with ice and does indeed taste delicious, but all the flavours aren’t registering.
sometimes brandy. The advice given is that if you are making your own sangria use a good-quality wine and, if at all possible, let it chill overnight to intensify the flavours when the fruit and wine are left to confront each other.
My further searching shows that Jamie Oliver’s recipe features watermelon, rum, lime and prosecco. The use of ingredients that seem very far removed from tradition shows me that I will not know what was in the drink I tasted unless I ask.
So, I call the restaurant and speak with a charming woman called Keely: she tells me the four principal ingredients are dry red wine, orange juice, cinnamon syrup and lemonade. Oranges are added on serving.
“The success is that the owners have been making it for a long time and they know their customers,” she says. “There’s no other secret.”
I’m gobsmacked that I couldn’t taste the cinnamon but don’t beat myself up about a lack of knowledge about something so basic. I take a deep breath and realise that Socrates knew his stuff: “Education is the kindling of a flame not the filling of a vessel”. But fill up my vessel with sangria again…
WHO ever said winter was dull? It’s a time for flowers! Just look at the three “P’s” – primula, polyanthus and pansies, plus violas and the first of the winter-flowering bulbs.
One of the great advantages of polyanthus and violas is their availability in individual colours to create specific planting schemes. Plus they have a long flowering period, from now throughout winter into early summer. They also make great pot plants to bring indoors and brighten the home.
Our polyanthus started flowering in March while the snails and slugs were (and still are) active, particularly after last month’s rains combined with unusually hot weather, causing an explosion of these critters, which hibernate once the frosts arrive.
A WORD of warning if you own dogs and use snail baits. The worst for pets are those with the main ingredient metaldehyde (green pellets) or methocarbamol (blue pellets). I know this from personal experience having accidentally killed our beautiful cocker spaniel as a result of using this kind of bait. Snail bait can also kill native fauna, including blue tongue lizards and geckos.
There is a safer alternative in Multiguard’s
which contains no dangerous poisons, the main ingredient being a form of iron (iron EDTA) with a low toxicity, even for earthworms.
NOW is the ideal time to move shrubs that may be, through changing circumstances, growing in the wrong place in the garden. Deciduous shrubs are best moved when they are completely dormant, ie after all the leaves have fallen. With these plants it is unnecessary to retain soil around the roots.
When moving evergreen shrubs it’s important to retain a good root ball, keeping enough soil to cover the roots. One way is to dig around and under the roots and then slide some heavy duty plastic or shadecloth under the root ball and tie it around the stem (just like wrapping
a traditional Christmas pudding). Improve the new site by adding compost or some good soil from elsewhere in the garden. If the soil in the new location is heavy with clay, fill the hole with Multicore liquid Ground Breaker and allow it to soak away. It penetrates the clay deep down, unlike gypsum which remains in the same place. Replant the shrub in its new location and immediately water in with Multicrop Seaweed Plant Nutrient. This has two functions; firstly, it eliminates air pockets around the roots, which can cause fungal and other root problems; secondly, it specifically encourages new root growth.
And when moving either deciduous or evergreen shrubs, it is essential to trim cleanly any long, leggy roots or those roots damaged in the moving process.
• Plant asters or Michaelmas daisies now.
• Plant tulip bulbs now the soil has cooled.
• Look out for winter-flowering clematis such as Clematis “Wisley Cream” and C. napaulensis.
• Hellebores can still be moved now, but without delay.
annual Collector Village
IMAGINE a pumpkin weighing in at more than 300kg and you’ve got the 13th annual Collector Village Pumpkin Festival, 10am to 4pm, on Sunday, May 7. It is one of the largest community events in the region, attracting thousands to the village, 55 kilometres
of
north-east of Canberra, where the competition will be keen with interstate visitors vying for the largest pumpkin. There will be more than 120 stalls (including plant stalls), pipe bands and activities galore and, of course, pumpkin soups and scones.
ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)
Be very clear in the way you explain things to others early in the week. Otherwise you are likely to get your wires crossed and your meaning will be scrambled. Then Mercury goes direct (in your sign) so communication should start to improve from Thursday onwards. Aim to be mentally and physically active on the weekend. Mighty Mars is activating your restless gene so it’s time to converse, discuss, study, travel, exercise, play sport and/or explore the great outdoors.
TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)
Avoid being a gullible Bull early in the week, when Mercury is still retrograde and someone may try to pull the wool over your eyes. Stay alert and aim to channel the mid-week Sun/Neptune energy into creative, spiritual or humanitarian pursuits. But the more you dig your heels in and refuse to budge, the more frustrating the weekend will be. So strive to be flexible; keep the lines of communication open; put on your adaptability hat… and expect the unexpected!
GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)
Thank goodness Mercury (your patron planet) finally goes direct on Wednesday. So communication, conversation, business, education and travel should all start to improve as the week progresses. If you take the time to communicate clearly with family and friends, you’ll (eventually) reap the rewards. But unpredictable Uranus will still throw some surprises into the mix! So think before you speak. If you find yourself compelled to spread secrets… just zip your lips!
CANCER (June 22 – July 22)
Crabs can be a selfish lot, as you become self-absorbed with your feelings, moods, dreams and daily dramas. But, with the Sun and Neptune highlighting your humanitarian side, it’s a wonderful week to re-connect with others, roll up your sleeves, and help those around you. Be inspired by fellow Cancerian, Princess Diana: “Everyone has the potential to give something back.” Plus a problem at work should gradually improve, as Mercury moves forwards in your career zone.
LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)
It’s a good week to set gigantic goals and dream big dreams for the future – and don’t make them too practical and pedestrian! It’s time for cautious Cats and languid Lions to go for gold as the Sun shines in your career zone (and aspects Neptune) giving you a sensational shot of creative confidence. On the weekend, be careful how you communicate with a loved one or work colleague as they will be inclined to interpret your well-meaning comments as unfair criticism.
VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)
Active Virgos to the rescue! The mid-week Sun/Neptune trine highlights your helpful nature and your strong desire to be of service to others. But, before you jump in, just make sure other people require your assistance. And, if you are too quick to critique others on the weekend, then you could find yourself with a fractious friend (or a livid lover) on your hands. Praise and encouragement will get you a lot further than criticism, no matter how ‘constructive’ it is.
LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)
Retrograde Mercury confuses love and communication early in the week, so be careful you’re not viewing people and partnerships through ridiculously rosecoloured glasses. Attached Librans – when it comes to a major goal, make sure you and your sweetheart are on the same page. Singles – can you differentiate a dream date from a disappointing dud? You’ll start to see things more clearly from Thursday onwards, when Mercury powers forwards in your relationship zone.
SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)
A close friend or family member is looking to you for sensitive emotional support, inspirational ideas or personal encouragement. Not criticism or sarcastic comments. So slip on your compassionate hat and adjust your approach accordingly. And, if you’ve got a personal problem that’s worrying you, don’t bottle things up inside Scorpio. Have the courage to show some vulnerability, speak your truth, and say what’s really on your mind. Especially from Thursday onwards.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)
Sagittarians can be self-indulgent, as you enjoy the good times and go out of your way to avoid hard work. But with serious Saturn moving slowly through your sign (and squaring Venus on Friday) it’s time to accept extra responsibilities with a smile as you show others what you are really capable of. When it comes to a frustrating family problem, things will gradually improve if you choose diplomacy over drama, encouragement over criticism, and acceptance over judgement.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)
Your perfectionist side is likely to go into overdrive, as Saturn amps up your obsession with perfection. But the more you slip into Capricorn control-freak mode, the more problems you’ll encounter with others (and you certainly won’t win any popularity polls). Cool compromise and plenty of patience are the secrets to domestic harmony at the moment. You’ll find the more compassionate you are towards a close friend or family member, the more meaningful the week will be.
AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)
The Sun is moving through earthy Taurus, which helps to stabilise your electric Aquarian energy. So it’s a wonderful week to take innovative ideas and turn them into practical projects, especially involving home, family and/or finances. And with Mercury, Venus and Uranus visiting your community zone, there is much enjoyment and friendship to be found within your local neighbourhood. But make sure you take the time to really listen to what others have to say.
PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)
This week Neptune encourages you to get involved in charitable work with a global reach, or help someone closer to home in your local community. Creative inspiration and intuitive insights are also highlighted, but don’t get so carried away that you delude yourself and head into the realm of pure fantasy. Keep it real Pisces. There will also be opportunities to share your personal hopes and dreams for the future with like-minded people, both in person and online.
Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2017
3
7
8 A German shepherd is also known as which breed of dog? (8)
9 How many players make up a soccer team? (6)
10 Name a brick, having one edge rounded off. (8)
11 What is an alternative word for rectangular? (6)
14 What are bullocks also known as? (6)
17 Name the representative of the sovereign, in an Australian State. (8)
18 What are items in a sports program? (6)
19 Lincoln is the capital of which US State? (8)
20 What is a child, or young girl, called? (6)
21 When one reduces something to ashes, one does what (8)
Down
1 What, in electricity, is one ampere in one second? (7)
2 Which term describes a swaggering pretence? (7)
3 What is a large triangular cushion, used as a chair? (7)
4 A brochure is also referred to as a what? (7)
5 What is a rootlike subterranean stem? (7)
6 What are bicycles built for two? (7)
11 Which term implies the non-use of pesticides, etc? (7)
12 To be captivating or delightful, is to be what? (7)
13 Name an alternative word for paradise. (7)
14 What are rivulets known as? (7)
15 What is a passage taken out of a book, or the like? (7)
16 Which US term is descriptive of an Australian duffer? (7)
Steph and Greg came to see me last week with a wonderful problem. "Business has been good this year and our turnover is almost $3 million," Steph said.
"Our business has always been classed as a small business because our turnover is usually less than $2 million. What's the impact of this change for us?"
I told them the good news: small business turnover threshold has now been increased to $10 million effective from July 1 last year. "This change was proposed in last year's Budget but it has only just been passed by both houses of parliament and still has to go back through the parliament to finish the process," I said.
"The first benefit is that you can continue to account for your business and lodge your business activity statements on a cash basis. This is much easier than using the accrual basis as you report on income when you receive it and expenses when they are paid. For instance, if you lodge your BAS on the accrual basis you pay the GST to the ATO before you have received it from your customers.
"There are also other concessions for the small business owner. You don't need to do a stocktake every year provided the value of your stock doesn't move by more than $5000. You can simply use an estimated figure in your accounts. You can also claim a deduction for prepaid expenses when the payment is made provided that it covers a period of 12 months or less.
"You can claim an outright deduction for individual assets that cost less than $20,000 each. You can also claim depreciation by using a general pool this gives a larger deduction for most assets.
"If you have an existing low-value pool, and the value is below $20,000, then you can write it off. However, a word of warning; the $20,000 outright deduction is scheduled to finish on June 30 2017 unless it is extended.
"So if you are thinking of buying any expensive items of plant and equipment it would be good to do so now. I can't emphasise too much that the invoice must be less than $20,000. If it is for $20,001 then you cannot write $20,000 off you must depreciate the $20,001."
Greg said he hadn't realised that all those benefits applied to a small business.
"Well, yes," I said, "and there are more."
"The company tax rate was 30 per cent, it is now 28.5 per cent and it will be progressively reduced to 25 per cent by 2026/27.
"For an unincorporated business there is a small business tax offset available of up to $1000. At present it is calculated at the rate of 8 per cent but the calculation rate will be increased progressively to 16 per cent by 2026/27.
"I should also remind you that you are eligible for an immediate deduction for certain start-up costs if you start a new business. Lastly, the Capital Gains Tax concessions, which apply when you sell your business, will still have a $2 million ceiling."
Steph was pleased. "While we realise that the law isn't passed yet, we can still sleep easy knowing that we are still a small business," she said.
If you need help with any issue in your small business contact the friendly team at Gail Freeman & Co Pty Ltd on 6295 2844.
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