180405 citynews

Still the apartments keep on coming

MICHAEL MOORE

How cricket lost its sense of fair play

ROBERT MACKLIN

Canberra’s best head to the Games

TIM GAVEL

Great time to get a lawn started

CEDRIC BRYANT

AIMS FOR THE STARS Sophie

The teen star of ‘42nd Street’ has her eyes on the stage

THE GROVE NGUNNAWAL

NEWS / dog club celebrates 60 years

Dog club has more bark than bite these days

By Danielle Nohra

HELD together by a strong volunteer-base, Canberra’s first dog training club, the ACT Companion Dog Club, will celebrate 60 years in the community on April 15.

Established in 1958, the club’s first location was, ironically, on Collie Street, in Fyshwick but moved in 1983 to Narrabundah Lane, Symonston, where it remains – and where it will hold its birthday celebrations.

As it happens, the club was founded in the Chinese Year of the Dog and coincidentally will be celebrating its birthday in the Year of the Dog at its open day, which will showcase dog obedience and dog sport demonstra tions, as well as “come-and-try” activi ties for owners and their dogs.

Senior vice-president and trained historian Anne Robertson says it’s a great achievement for any communitybased club to survive for 60 years.

“We’ve only been able to go on for this long because members of the club have been willing to contribute,” says Anne, who has been with the club since 1990.

The initial intent of the club was to help owners train and look after their dogs properly so they weren’t a social nuisance, which, looking back, Anne says was quite visionary.

lot harsher than the methods we use these days.

“They were harsh and authoritative because they reflected the knowledge at the time, but the club has been a reward-based, force-free training club, which means we haven’t used harsh methods since 1999.”

Club president Lesley Pothan, a mother of three and a grandmother of eight, finds the historical changes to raising a child are similar to having a dog.

standing with pet owners is they don’t necessarily understand the needs of dogs and so having a working dog in a small garden means it will get antsy.

The club offers traditional dog sports such as obedience training and tracking, as well as, fly ball, agility, K9 disc, Rally-O and dances with dogs.

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by Ian Meikle, 9b/189 Flemington Road, Mitchell.

a much more respectful way, rather than being dominating.”

Lesley, who has a fluffy shih tzu says people also need to be mindful of how dogs are treated to prevent them from becoming aggressive.

“A lot of people think that dogs are ‘fur babies’ but they’re not, they’re dogs and their innate needs, need to be satisfied,” she says.

Anne, the owner of three Setters; Derry, Trouble and Kilty, agrees with

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“Lifestyles are quite different now and dogs are often left alone for long periods of time,” she says.

Anne says the club’s access to dog sports, provides them with an outlet so they exercise both mentally and physically.

With about 800 members at a time, Anne says the club attracts at least 400 new members a year and runs more than 50 classes a week for members wanting to train their dogs to become

“Any dog can learn new tricks, it doesn’t matter if the dog is old or young,” Anne says.

“We need to understand their body language and they need to understand ours so we can live harmoniously together.”

The ACT Companion Dog Club’s 60th anniversary celebrations, 240 Narrabundah Lane, Symonston, noon-4pm, April 15.

WHEN IT MATTERS

SEVEN DAYS

Forgiveness flows as Pauline gets her book away

IN February, 2012, I gave Australia’s most polarising political figure some tips on talkback radio. Pauline Hanson incoherently meandered through two hours of drive-time radio, but was clear on two issues.

One: she could never forgive Tony Abbott for orchestrating her imprisonment on charges of electoral fraud (later quashed) and two: convinced her political career was “toast” she was researching rural real-estate options in Tasmania.

Now in March, 2018, Senator Pauline Hanson swept confidently down the marble staircase and across the grand foyer of Parliament House into its tiny bookshop. Applause spontaneously erupted (incited by “human megaphone” Max Markson) from a queue of punters waiting for autographs on their copies of “Pauline, In Her Own Words”. With minder James Ashby micro managing the event, Hanson – back on civilised terms with Tony Abbott (at least for the book launch) – was back in town.

Jeremy Lasek is celebrating a life changing milestone. The former TV journalist who ran the capital’s centenary celebrations before moving on to head the National Australia Day Council, arrived in Australia from England with his family 50 years ago. Posting a black and white family photo on his Facebook account, with the banner “British born, Dapto raised and Canberra-proud”, Lasek thanks his parents for their “bold but brilliant decision” to emigrate and Australia for “throwing your

arms around us and making us feel so welcome”.

IT may be some sort of record but the annual Canberra Raiders bagging actually began before Easter. In a letter to the editor of the “Queanbeyan Age”, Keith Crowley, of Chapman – who claims to be a supporter “since the team’s inception” – writes: “I have to discontinue my support for the current group of brilliant individual players because they have no respect for their supporters.”

Written after the team’s third frustratingly close loss, Mr Crowley asks: “Do these players expect supporters to continue to pay good money to watch quality players perform so badly?”

ORGANISERS of Palm Sunday’s refugee march in Garema Place cite political interference for a lack of media interest in the event.

Canberra activist group RAC (Refugee Action Committee) sarcastically tweeted: “Big accolades to the 1st person who can find ANY ABC coverage of the huge Palm Sunday Rallies across Australia. But Cricket! Was it an instruction from the top?”

SA Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young joined former CM Jon Stanhope and Catholic Bishop Pat Power in the front row of the march which drew thousands of locals.

THE unstoppable fundraising force, actor Samuel Johnson, returned to the capital to raise more funds for cancer research. The Gold Logie-winning thespian has put his career on hold in order to concentrate on raising a million dollars for

the Love Your Sister foundation, established with his sister Connie who died in September after a long battle with the disease.

Johnson participated in a charity golf day and made appearances at Bunnings sausage sizzles during the campaign organised by Gowrie man and cancer survivor Craig Glover

FOR class-conscious Canberrans the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics data (2016 census) may not help. The information is primarily designed to “help governments, communities and businesses determine areas needing additional funding and improved services etc etc.” But those aspiring to climb the ladder from mobile middle class to the emergent affluent class and possibly the “ultimate” social strata, the established affluent class will be focused on the Most Affluent Suburbs list which includes Crace, Barton, Forrest, Fadden and Weetangera in its top 10.

ELECTIONS come and go but seemingly election polling never takes a break. A recent ReachTEL poll sampled Canberra voters on a range of issues with three stand-out questions. The automated telephone survey sought a yes/no/not sure response to: 1. “Do you trust Worksafe ACT?” 2. “Do you consider stage 2 of the Light Rail system to Woden necessary?”

And 3. the “loaded”question: “Are you concerned with the credibility of the local ACT government?

And still the apartments keep coming

DESPITE an overwhelming view of Canberrans in favour of separate dwellings, the Barr government continues to facilitate the development of inappropriate and out-of-proportion apartment blocks.

A more and more autocratic government is turning Canberra into a poor copy of Melbourne. The vision of Northbourne Avenue as a “grand entrance” to Canberra has plummeted into proposals for a canyon of 20-storey buildings.

To rub salt into the wound, the trees have been butchered for the tram leaving a scar that will take a long time to heal. The justification for aparmentalising Canberra is to point to similar cities worldwide. However, in such cities those who can afford it overwhelmingly abandon their apartments in favour of single dwellings with a yard and garden.

There are alternatives. Paris is not a city of canyons – nor is London. The central parts of those cities employ a rational height limit. The ACT government seems hell bent on redevelopment of a disproportionate number of apartments to raise revenue. The injection of rates and landlord taxes has become a driving force for planning decisions. The cart is put before the horse. It does not have to be this way. Prof Barbara Norman from the University of Canberra has identified key elements for more sustainable cities worldwide. Engaging community voices, building

A more and more autocratic government is turning Canberra into a poor copy of Melbourne… Building future ghettos is certainly troubling.

understanding and working with the community is fundamental – in marked contrast to the Chief Minister’s desire to dictate his own concept directly to the community.

In speaking to ABC radio about her new book, Prof Norman emphasised how useful the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are as a reference point for sustainable cities as the world becomes more urbanised. The SDGs offer a path to a more sustainable world and respect our intergenerational responsibilities.

The last of the SDGs identifies the importance of building partnerships for an integrated approach to a healthier environment and community. Equity, life on land, below the water, education and economic growth all form part of this roadmap that has the commitment of more than 190 countries globally. Respect for these goals will provide a very different vision for Canberra.

In her book “Sustainable Pathways for our Cities and Regions” Prof Norman identifies practical methods of implementing the SDGs. On radio she called for a “Canberra Conversation” to identify how people wish to live and how to take our city into the future.

In launching her book, the Federal

Labor MP Anthony Albanese argued “as highlighted by Prof Norman, we must do this in a way that is fair. It must also be democratic and participatory”.

Our city is simply different from other cities in the world. This is how it was intended. This is how it was planned and it is something that should be a source of great pride for Canberrans. However, there have always been those who seek to have Canberra more like inner Sydney or Melbourne. We have the infrastructure and the ability to do better.

Distributing employment to town centres has a major impact on traffic and liveability. However, this takes government willpower, strong planning and a clear strategic vision. Adopting a shared strategic vision is a key element of Barbara Norman’s message.

“One path,” argued Anthony Albanese, “leads us to cities that are productive, liveable and sustainable”. And later: “The other is troubling to think about”.

On the one hand, real credit must go to Andrew Barr and his team for his determination and leadership on renewable energy. However, on the other hand, and on broader issues, it is time for the former Federal Minister for Infrastructure to have a word to his Labor colleagues in the ACT Assembly. Building future ghettos is certainly troubling. Alternatively, we can use the tools at our disposal including the age of our city, the dispersed city centres and the leasehold system that provide us with many opportunities not available to others.

Canberra can be a world leader in developing as an innovative, equitable, sustainable, liveable, productive and friendly city. However, this can only be achieved through a participatory, long-term strategic vision.

Michael Moore is a former member of the ACT Legislative Assembly and an independent minister for health in the Carnell government. He has been a political columnist with “CityNews” since 2006.

Barr only interested in himself

WHEN are the ACT voters going to get rid of Chief Minister Andrew Barr?

He has shown complete disregard, disdain and lack of respect for any residents over 40, he is “not interested in their views”, which is interesting as he is 45. If the over 40s are irrelevant then so is he.

He hates the journalists and “The Canberra Times” even though most of the time they supported him (contrary to what he claims).

He can spend $100,000 of public money on rainbowing the city just to promote the LGBTIQ vote for Same Sex Marriage, of which he had a vested interest. Yet as we read in “CityNews” (March 29), the public toilets in Bowen Park, Kingston are a disgrace.

Also the health system is a disgrace, the nature parks and green space in and around Canberra are a disgrace.

He is spending many millions of dollars on the light rail and leases the CFMEU property back to the union for $1 a year after buying it for the ridiculous amount of $3.9 million of taxpayers’ money.

When are the voters going to realise, he is not interested in the ACT he is only interested in himself.

Vi Evans via email

The best of Canberra takes part in Games

CANBERRA hockey player

Andrew Charter was stunned when he was dropped from the Australian men’s team on the eve of the Commonwealth Games. It brought back memories of missing out on the London Olympics in 2012.

The good thing about sport is that there is usually another chance to make the cut. And for Andrew? He won back his place in the Australian team for the Commonwealth Games currently underway on the Gold Coast.

This is just one of many back stories involving Canberra athletes taking part in the Games.

I can’t recall the number of times people have questioned me on the worth of the Commonwealth Games. I believe the Gold Coast Games have come at the perfect time with a possible growing perception that sportspeople have lost sight of the essence of sport. It is not always about winning at all costs or about how much money is to be made.

The Commonwealth Games offers a prime example of sportspeople doing it for the right reasons; most competitors don’t get paid a great deal, with many combining study or work with training and competition.

Which is why it’s worth providing some background to Canberra athletes involved in the Games:

• Sprinter Mel Breen has had issues in seeking recognition from Athletics Australia. She is the current national record holder in the 100 metres, she has battled injury and, at times, officialdom to make it to the Games in one of the most competitive events in world sport.

• Swimmer Ben Treffers wasn’t sure if he was going to continue in the sport a couple of years ago. It took a move to the Gold Coast from his base in Canberra to reinvigorate

The Gold Coast Games have come at the perfect time with a growing perception that sportspeople have lost sight of the essence of sport.

his love of swimming. Ben is out to defend his 50-metres backstroke title won in Glasgow.

• Keely Small is only 16 years of age and still at school. The day after she was selected for the 800 metres on the Gold Coast Games’ track she was back on the school bus.

• Para athlete Jayden Sawyer is the world record holder in the cerebral palsy javelin, but there are a limited number of events for para athletes at the Games and his category in the javelin wasn’t on the program. No problems. He changed throwing disciplines and has qualified to compete in the shot put.

• Hockeyroo Edwina Bone missed six months last year with a knee injury. A setback like that can either make you stronger or finish your career. Thankfully for Edwina, it was the former and she is back in the team for the Commonwealth Games.

• Squash player Christine Nunn joined the pro tour in 2008 and went six years without winning a title. Fast forward to 2018 and she is in the form of her life winning the Australian Open title and selection in the Games’ team.

• Cyclist Bec Wiasak must have been starting to think her chance to compete in the Commonwealth Games was running out of time. Bec won the individual world title on the track but the focus has been on the team event. She will be competing in her first Games.

• Mountain bikers Dan and Rebecca McConnell had to self fund their campaign after losing their major sponsor. Now back with a new sponsor they head into the Games with a certain amount of confidence and self-belief.

• Road cyclist Chloe Hosking launched a campaign to win selection in the world championship team last year. If nothing else, it has provided motivation as she prepares for the road race with fellow Canberra cyclist Gracie Elvin

• Personal trainer Nick Verreynne originally missed selection in the wrestling team but received an 11thhour call up after another wrestler pulled out.

• Badminton player Anthony Joe missed out on the London Olympics because of injury. Coached by his father Anthony, he has made the team heading for the Gold Coast. These are just snapshots of some of the Canberra athletes representing Australia in the Commonwealth Games. Pride in wearing the Australian uniform is evident and there is no talk of contracts or their individual “brand”. This is why we should embrace the

Happy Thai new year

THE public is invited to celebrate the Songkran Festival or Thai New Year at Wat Dhammadharo, 80 Archibald Street, Lyneham, 10am-4pm, on Sunday, April 15. Supported by the Royal Thai Embassy the celebrations will include cultural activities and Thai foods.

Help with incontinence

WOMEN of all ages are invited to attend a free pelvicfloor presentation by health professionals from ACT Health, who will provide self-help strategies for women experiencing continence problems or wishing to prevent them. At the Gungahlin Community Health Centre, 1pm4pm on Tuesday, April 10. Bookings to 6207 9977.

Animal heroes

AUTHOR Anthony Hill will entertain the ladies of the Tug geranong Day VIEW club with stories about brave animals that have worked alongside Australian fighting forces at the club’s next lunch meeting at the Viking Town Centre club, Greenway, from 11.30am, on Tuesday, April 17. The lunch will also commemorate Anzac Day. Lunch costs $26 and is open to interested ladies and visitors. RSVP by Friday, April 13, to 6294 1384 or email maleyjan@yahoo.com

How cricket lost its sense of honour and

I GUESS it’s not the end of the world –not quite, anyway. It just seemed that way when the news broke that the cricket captain of Australia, Steve Smith, conspired to cheat in a Test match against the South Africans. At first, like most Australians, I couldn’t quite believe it. Then the other shoe dropped and he and Cameron Bancroft, the actual perpetrator, confessed their sins at a press conference. And Steve had the temerity to say that he still felt he was the right person to lead the team. Clearly, he was in a different world from the rest of us, a place where cheating is a mere misdemeanour deserving no more than a gentle slap on the wrist. He would soon learn better.

But before we consign him forever to the wasteland of broken dreams, perhaps we should try to understand how the great game lost its sense of honour and fair play. My view, for what it’s worth, is that the tragedy of Steve Smith can be traced back to the Ian Chappell era

Clearly, Smith was in a different world from the rest of us, a place where cheating is a mere misdemeanour deserving no more than a gentle slap on the wrist.

when aggressive “sledging” became an accepted part of the contest.

Those who call it “banter” and say “it always was” are not telling the truth. In the 1960s when I played at a reasonable level in Queensland – opening the batting at times with Sam Trimble, who captained the State team – it was regarded as being against the spirit of the game.

On the odd occasion it occurred, I stepped away from the crease, looked to the umpire who immediately intervened with the opposing captain. And that was the end of it.

However, the ultra-aggressive Chappell team ignored “the spirit of the game” in favour of “win at all costs”. The umpires of the day failed to take action and the practice filtered down to club and social levels till those of us who objected to it were “wimps” who “couldn’t take it”.

And, as new forms of the game arose like ODIs and the 20/20 Big Bash, the win became the all-

important measure of success and the big money followed.

However, money and winning are not necessarily the harbingers of dishonour. Women’s sport is a great example. And there are even bigger prizes available in golf, yet players have resisted “sledging” opponents or quietly moving their balls to preferred lies. But perhaps they are the exceptions that prove the rule. For in other fields of endeavour standards have fallen just as dramatically as they have in men’s cricket.

In politics, for example, when did the last minister voluntarily resign in the wake of some scandal in his or her department? Yet this used to be a keynote of our Westminster-derived system. And what about that other captain of Australia, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, who was so quick to condemn Steve Smith’s sporting felony.

He offered himself as a principled alternative to Abbott’s climate change denialism, and as a dedicated proponent of cyberspace best practice. Yet he now aggressively

supports the opening of the biggest new coal mine in the world and has single-handedly wrecked the NBN. And all without turning a hair. And what about the de facto captain of the Western world, that halfwit in the White House who has plumbed new depths of dishonour and disrepute, who sides with the gun crazies of the NRA while schoolchildren take to the streets pleading for no more than safety in their classrooms.

So while it’s not exactly the end of the world it does feel like the end of a world, the one where principle and honour and the spirit of the game meant something; where the phrases “fair dinkum” and “a fair go” were our guiding light. Perhaps the time has come to take a leaf from Dylan Thomas, and “rage, rage, against the dying of the light”. After all, what have we got to lose?

robert@robertmacklin.com

At the Greek National Day Celebration, Yarralumla

At ‘Black is the New White’ opening night, Civic

SCHOOL HOLIDAY IDEAS

Oh, that holiday freedom

SCHOOL holidays are almost here.

And since it’s the last break before winter, “CityNews” is featuring a bunch of outdoor and indoor activities to keep the kids (and bigger kids) busy over the weeks off.

Celebrate a big birthday

THE National Dinosaur Museum is inviting children and adults to celebrate its 25th birthday over the weekend of April 7-8.

As one of the longest-standing exhibits in Canberra, retail manager Brett Chalker says the museum will celebrate its milestone by giving all children free entry over the weekend.

Kicking off with a ribbon cutting on the Saturday, the ceremony will unveil the name of the museum’s front outdoor area, which will be followed by a cake cutting and activities such as face painting and carnival games.

That night will be an adults-only event, with adult-themed tours, food vans, drinks and music.

“There’s been a lot of hard work and dedication over the years… we’re constantly evolving and have come a long way since the beginning,” Brett says.

During the school holidays, the museum will run holiday activities such as fossil casting, dinosaur painting, a fossil hunt and hourly tours.

The National Dinosaur Museum, Barton Highway and Gold Creek Road, Gold Creek. Call 6230 2655 or visit nationaldinosaurmuseum.com.au

TEMORA Aviation Museum’s collection includes some of the rarest aircraft in Australia and the world, which is why general manager Peter Harper believes it’s the perfect stop to break up a long trip these school holidays.

He says it’s a great opportunity for parents to show children some of Australia’s ex-military aviation history such as aircraft from World War II and also from the Korean and Vietnam War era.

On the museum’s flying days, children and adults get

GET up close and personal with a range of birds at the Canberra Walk-in Aviary.

The aviary is a 1000sqm planted walk-in enclosure that has about 550 birds from about 60 different species.

“The aviary is great fun for all ages. You have the chance to get up close and personal with a range of birds,” says Mick Logan, owner and manager of the aviary.

“While not all birds will interact with you, you get the chance to observe, up close, species of birds that otherwise

the opportunity to talk directly with the pilots and the engineers, who restore and keep them flying.

Looking ahead, “Warbirds Downunder” will be held on October 12-13 with up to 25,000 people expected to converge on Temora.

Temora Aviation Museum.

1 Tom Moon Avenue, Temora. Call 6977 1088, email info@ aviationmuseum.com.au or visit aviationmuseum.com.au

would be hard to see in the wild.

“We give you a small plate of food and a tub of mealworms and you can wander around and feed the birds.”

Mick says: “Providing the weather is fine you can have a great time feeding the birds or just observing our feathered friends.”

Canberra Walk-In Aviary, Unit 13 Federation Square, O’Hanlon Place, Nicholls. Call 6230 2044 or visit canberrawalkinaviary.com.au

engineering workshop tour; pilot meet and greet.

THE EXPERTS OF GUNGAHLIN

There’s lots to know about

GUNGAHLIN is an Aboriginal word meaning “little rocky hill”.

Originally identified as part of the 1957 plan for future development in the ACT, in 1991 it was launched as Canberra’s fourth “town”.

We Cater, Deliver & Delight

WITH a combined 50 years’ experience as chefs, husband and wife team Megan and Mark Astle have put their passion for cooking and skills together to form Astle’s Catering.

Megan says Astle’s Catering provides high-quality yet affordable locally-sourced food for any occasion, including weddings, wakes, birthdays and divorce parties.

“Whether it be a wedding, an intimate dinner party or a special celebration we can tailor the perfect menu to ensure your event will be remembered by guests for years to come,” she says.

At the time, the population was just 389 people. Now, home to more than 66,000 residents, the Gungahlin region offers natural beauty, plenty of open space and new-style houses as well as thriving business precincts and shopping areas.

“Arriving on-site with qualified chefs and wait staff who are passionate about exquisite food and professional service, we take care of all things food so that you can relax and enjoy

your day.”

With its satellite kitchen, Astle’s Catering is available to travel to locations outside of Canberra, or even cater for events that are in the middle of a park.

Megan describes the service as flexible when it comes to catering and says it even has waitstaff on hand to run dinner parties at people’s houses.

With a liquor licence and a focus on modern Australian food, Astle’s Catering covers both food and drink and is always going with the changes in the food industry.

Astle’s Catering, 71 The Valley Way, Gungahlin. Call Megan on 0410 598311, Mark on 0416 279087, email

Quilt care will ensure winter warmth

LOCALLY owned and proud of it, Therma Quilts specialises in making and servicing feather and down products such as quilts, pillows and cushions that have been keeping Canberrans warm since the ‘80s.

As the weather gets colder, it can even make quilts bigger or smaller to suit any changes in bed sizes since last winter.

Using quality textiles, the seamstresses at Therma Quilts hand-make every item suited to the customer’s needs and provide a top-up service when quilts and pillows show signs of wear or loss of warmth and fluffiness.

“Servicing of feather and down products are essential for keeping them in optimal condition for comfort,” Therma Quilts says.

“With time and usage, body proteins and lipids (natural oils and perspiration) are absorbed on to quilt casings and into the feather and down inside.

“Over time, this build-up dampens the down, which causes it to lose its thermal resistance. However, regular servicing of your quilts would

ensure that your down is fresh, fluffy and keeps you nice and warm during winter.

“With time and usage, the fabrics on quilts wear out and get thin, but once holes appear there is no need to throw away your quilt.

“Whether you’re wanting to rejuvenate your quilt, customise it or buy a new custom-made one we can look after you,” Therma Quilts says.

Therma Quilts, 10-12 Kemble Court, Mitchell. Call 6241 6859 or visit thermaquilts.com.au

Rovers and 4x4s, no one can do a better

enthusiasts who will pretty much do anything,” he says.

“We’re welcoming of all models and recently we’ve managed to trap ourselves a good-quality auto-electrician.”

Richard says auto-electricians are rare to come by, so he is proud to have someone on the team fixing issues such as air-conditioning problems.

Roverworks also does ACT and NSW roadworthy certificates and has expert mechanics who can work on brands such as Citroen, Renault, Peugeot and Jaguar.

But Richard, who has a Land Rover “addiction” with models dating back to the ‘70s, says Roverworks is the place to go for 4WD owners, especially when no one else can fix a problem.

“We will always specialise in Land Rovers but we have those other services that hang off it,” he says.

“We also have a range of accessories that we can get for 4WD vehicles such as bars, winches, lighting, dual battery systems, suspension and under-body armour.”

Most importantly, Richard says Roverworks will bend over backwards to help its customers out in the most cost-effective way possible.

Roverworks, 38 Hoskins Street, Mitchell. Call 6241 8777 or visit roverworks.com.au

the ‘little rocky hill’

now provides wholesale landscaping materials to the public and green waste recycling services.

The family owned business started with co-founder Brian and his brother Patrick, who both decided to establish Corkhill Bros after losing the family dairy farm to Lake Burley Griffin.

Brian says Corkhill Bros aims to incorporate the family ethics and values in day-to-day business operations.

“We strive to create a workforce of hardworking, committed, trustworthy and loyal employees that promote this culture,” he says.

Through its multi-faceted operations Brian says the company’s intention is to successfully extract, process and deliver its products to meet the needs of varied target markets; both residential and commercial.

Corkhill Bros’ commercial operations include chipping, screening, grinding, processing, bulk production and special blend production as requested.

Then its waste side has services such as the hire of skip bins of various sizes and recycling of drop off and kerbside garden organics.

Corkhill Bros’ landscaping supply outlets are located at Mugga Lane, Symonston and Darling Street, Mitchell. Corkhill Bros, 33 Darling Street. Call 6241 8860 or visit corkhillbros.com.au

BASED on the values of St Mother Teresa of Calcutta, the Mother Teresa School has been “doing small things with great love” in Harrison for nine years.

Principal Peter Hughes says the school provides a calm, productive and enthusiastic environment for students of a preschool age to year six.

“In our latest satisfaction survey it was really strong in teachers caring, taking interest in the kids and providing a stimulating environment with lots of opportunities,” he says.

“The school also has a strong pastoral care program, particularly in the area of mental health.”

Through the program, professionals and teachers team up to help children with anxiety and other stresses.

Based on five c’s the school also has a behaviour management policy, which was developed by a number of students and teachers.

“The five c’s are to be compassionate, considerate, courageous, calm and courteous,” he says.

The school is part of the Holy Spirit Parish and accepts families from faith backgrounds other than Catholic, with the understanding that the families support the ethos of the school.

Mother Teresa School, 40 Wimmera Street, Harrison. Call 6241 5604, email office.motherteresa@ cg.catholic.edu.au or visit mts.school

THE EXPERTS OF GUNGAHLIN

Claire looks for options for conflict resolution

WITH a desire to help people going through personal or professional conflict, Claire Naidu established Claire Naidu & Co in Gungahlin to give people more options for conflict resolution.

Claire Naidu, who is a mediator, family lawyer, arbitrator and conflict coach, says Claire Naidu & Co offers an approach unlike any other.

“Litigation is one way to deal with a dispute but there are a number of other options that we offer, which include negotiation, mediation, arbitration and conflict coaching,” she says.

Claire says she can look at issues from

“[When it comes to family disputes] we understand the importance of familial relationships and understand the value of family,” she says.

“We facilitate positive resolution and excellent outcomes. Helping our clients is our passion and our team can achieve the best results for you.”

Located down by Yerrabi Pond, Claire says she’s constantly getting feedback about how the peaceful location can also help the clients work through their issues in a relaxing environment.

& Co, 66A Phyllis Ashton

Abberton absolutely loves F45 and is proud of the “family” of clients she has helped create across her Gungahlin and Ngunnawal studios. With a background in personal training, Eliza says F45, which is class-based team circuit training, changed her life.

“The ‘F’ stands for functional so the movements mimic exercises you do in daily life and strengthen the muscles you need for everyday activities,” she says.

“The 45 stands for 45 minutes, which is the length of all the classes except Saturdays.”

When Eliza first discovered F45 she says not a single class was easy but it challenges everyone, no matter their fitness level or age, and the fact that you never do the same workout twice had

“I felt a part of a family from the very first day and I never looked back,” she says.

“I couldn’t wait to devote all my time to a career in helping others feel this way.”

And now she does, every day, with her team in the Gungahlin and Ngunnawal studios.

“My proudest achievement is taking the ‘family’ culture of our studio literally and working side by side with my brother Luke who manages F45 Training Gungahlin while I manage the Ngunnawal studio,” she says.

F45 Gungahlin, Hudson Square, 70 Nullarbor Avenue, Harrison. Email gungahlin@f45training. com.au, call 0401 242443 or visit f45training. com.au/gungahlin/

John offers auto care with confidence

“WITH Goodyear Autocare, you’re good to go”, according to Goodyear Autocare’s continuing Easter campaign in Gungahlin, which provides a comprehensive vehicle maintenance and safety service until April 15.

“If your car is booked into Goodyear Autocare for new tyres or servicing, as the customer, you can rest assured that your vehicle will undergo a rigorous inspection that once completed will provide you with the confidence that ‘you’re good to go’,” says owner John Wojcicka.

Well-established in the Gungahlin community, John says Goodyear Autocare Gungahlin has developed an enviable reputation for going above and beyond to assist its customers.

“With a welcoming waiting area, including a coffee machine and an assortment of current magazines, all customers can relax in comfort whilst waiting for their vehicle,” he says. If bookings are made in advance Goodyear Autocare Gungahlin has a free courtesy vehicle that customers can book if they’re unable to wait.

Goodyear Autocare Gungahlin, 1 O’Brien Place, Gungahlin. Call 6255 4955 or go to goodyearautocare.com.au

A place for locals to call their own

LOCATED on the corner of Hinder Street, Cnr Stone Cafe and Bar is a place for locals to call their own.

Manager Chris Gallahar says the idea behind Cnr Stone Cafe and Bar is so locals have more food and drink options in Gungahlin, rather than going into the city.

Chris describes Cnr Stone, which has exposed brick with wood finishing, as fun but classy space.

“We’re looking at having reversible tables that turn into table tennis, as well as other games,” he says.

“And it doesn’t matter who the customer is, whether they’re in a suit or T-shirt, they will feel

Chris describes the open space as another main feature, allowing customers to spread out and “make a corner of their own”.

“The outdoor part is a massive area that wraps around the corner of Hinder Street,” he says.

Cnr Stone Cafe and Bar. Visit cnrstonecafebar.com

OPENING SOON

THE RUNNERS SHOP IS OPEN IN GUNGAHLIN

• Extensive range of shoes for Runners, Joggers, Walkers and Gym enthusiasts of all ages

• Brands include Asics, Brooks, Nike, New Balance, Mizuno, Saucony, Hoka and On

• Great range of technical running apparel which breathes (wicks moisture) all year round

• Extensive range of nutrition products from Endura, GU, Hammer and Tailwind

• Come in and speak to our staff of Runners, Triathletes and Orienteers with a passion and a first-hand knowledge of our entire product range!

Entrance between the Central Café & Gloria Jeans Café Hibberson St, Gungahlin 6241 7054

Or visit our ‘long running store’ in Dundas Court, Phillip 6285 3508

Eagles and Gungahlin United.

Gungahlin Club, 51 Hinder Street, Gungahlin. Call 6147 5511 or visit eastlakefc.com.au

Where the community calls home

SIREN Bar, the first of its kind in Gungahlin, was established seven years ago by Dan Gaul, who wanted to create a good venue where locals could come together and receive top-class service

Now, Dan says Siren Bar, which is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner, has become a place that the community calls home.

“We have a strong community focus, assisting community sports, local schools and charities through sponsorship arrangements, donations and the community raffles run on Fridays,” he says.

Centrally located in Gungahlin yet convenient with access to parking, Dan says it’s the perfect location to have a function such as a 21st, an engagement or a gathering.

“We cater for any occasion and can provide big buffets to small cocktail food platters,” he says.

With a variety of modern Australian food, Dan says guests can either enjoy a relaxed dining experience with good vibes on the sunny deck or a more formal gathering in the restaurant.

“Our staff is very attentive, customer-focused and friendly,”

Siren Bar, corner of Anthony Rolfe Avenue and Gozzard Street, Gungahlin. Call 6162 0377 or visit sirenbar.com.au

Running shoes need proper fitting, says Nick

AFTER 25 successful years in Phillip, The Runners Shop expanded to Gungahlin in 2015 and located upstairs on Hibberson Street, next to Anytime Fitness.

Owner Nick Walshe says the shop prides itself on having the best range of shoes in Canberra, catering for runners, walkers and joggers of all ages and abilities.

“Our staff are all runners or triathletes, providing firsthand knowledge and passion,” says Nick.

Nick says that having properly fitted running shoes is very important to prevent risk of injuries.

“Poor-fitting shoes can cause blisters and bruises,” he says.

“Running shoes should be replaced after 800 kilometres of use. It is important to replace shoes once they are worn and the cushioning is exhausted,” he says.

The Runners Shop, Level 1, 46-50 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin. Call 6241 7054.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Teen Sophie’s front and centre

COVER STORY

By Helen Musa

SOPHIE Highmore may be a 17-year-old, Gowrie, year 12 student at the arts-minded MacKillop College, but just like Peggy, the aspiring young hoofer she plays in an upcoming production of “42nd Street”, she has her eyes on the stage.

It’s an age-old, Hollywood, showbiz story: small-town girl gets her big break on Broadway.

In the time-honoured tradition of “A Star Is Born” and “Singin’ in the Rain”, this tap-dancing musical sees Peggy arrive in the Big Apple from Pennsylvania and win a spot in the chorus line. But when the star, Dorothy, injures a leg, Peggy steps in and outclasses the diva.

“I’ve been dancing for around 15 years with Legs Studio,” Highmore tells “CityNews” at Queanbeyan’s Q theatre where the show is being presented by Free-Rain Theatre Company, praising her dance teacher Michelle Heine, who is choreograph ing the show in the style of legend ary dance artist Gower Champion.

Kylie brings Twitter’s global show to town

IT’S impossible to miss the enthusiasm when Canberra artist and curator Kylie Fogarty tells “CityNews” about the 680 artists and celebrities who’ve entered the Twittersphere for

“Twitter Art Exhibit” is a rare international art show, now staged for the first time in Australia.

Featuring postcard-sized artworks donated by artists from all around the world, its sales will go directly to Pegasus – Riding for the Disabled of the ACT to raise funds for riding

The TAE movement was founded by Swedish artist and social media influencer David Sandum with the slogan: “Through art we can change the world” and each year TAE sees entries from artists and celebrities worldwide.

“All entries are accepted and open to amateurs as well as established artists, so long as they meet the exhibition’s protocols,”

when a colleague suggested she enter her art into the TAE and she’s been doing it ever since. Then in 2016, when Sandum put out the call for anyone who would like to curate, she began negotiating immediately, was offered support by Strathnairn Arts and Barton Estate wines in Murrumbateman, drew up a plan and got the gig.

There was never any doubt the chosen charity would be Pegasus, Fogarty says.

“They nearly closed down and I knew how much their services are appreciated by the community, so this was a way to support them through art,” she says.

Fogarty regularly Skypes and chats online with the four board members and has organised a live Skype hook-up with Sandum on April 7 when, as is traditional, he will announce the location of TAE19. On the same evening the artworks will go live for purchase at a flat fee of $48. Fogarty stressed that every cent would go to Pegasus, possible because Strathnairn is offering the venue free and waiving commissions.

“We have a wide variety of artistic levels, but this year the entries are just fantastic.”

”Although I’m not a small-town girl, I feel like I relate to Peggy in a way, wanting to get into the big time, someone who started out as a nobody and ended up as a somebody.”

It’s full of “glamour, glitz and high-

But this role, in parallel with her character Peggy, is her big break. As a child she performed in “Joseph and his Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” for Canberra Philharmonic, later joining Anne Somes’ Free-Rain Theatre to play small roles in “The Little Mermaid” and “Mary Poppins”, then a small featured role in “Les school, but nothing like a lead role,” she says.

“It’s a big dance show, so combining the elements and then blending them with the vocals and the acting is huge; a logistical challenge,” says Free-Rain producer Somes. “But it’s also so much fun to be in”.

She describes the music as infectious, saying: “All the cast know

that lyricist Al Dubin and composer Harry Warren wrote for other films, including “Gold Diggers of 1933”, “Roman Scandals” and “Dames”.

“42nd Street”, The Q, Queanbeyan, until April 15. Bookings to theq.net.au or 6285 6290.

There are postcards of cats, foxes, flowers and even Stonehenge from 68 countries, with interest in Australia mounting.

This is the eighth such exhibition and Fogarty emphasises that it is not a competition. Anyone, she said, was able to enter via Twitter, post their finished 16cm x 12cm artwork to Canberra for her to collate and watch out for the sales. Her connection began in 2012,

When she spoke to us, it was closing date and entries from around the world were still pouring in. Fogarty, too, had only just put the finishing touches to her own artwork, a landscape depicting Strathnairn – and horses.

“TAE18” is open for viewing at Strathnairn Arts, 90 Stockdill Drive, Holt. All entries are available for sale, after the official opening at 2pm on Saturday, April 7. The exhibition continues Thursday to Sunday, 10am-4pm, until April 29. Free entry to launch but registrations advisable to eventbrite.com

“All entries are accepted and open to amateurs as well established artists, so long as they meet the exhibition’s protocols.”

The laughs keep coming as the Kremlin panics

“The Death of Stalin” (MA)

AS Lord Acton said in a letter to Bishop Mandell Creighton in 1887: “All power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely”. Which of the 20th century’s three absolute rulers used absolute power most dreadfully? Adolf Hitler? Chairman Mao Tse Tung? Or Iosif Vissarionovich Dzhugashvili, a.k.a. Stalin?

All three set out to give their people better lives. But if you had to pick a winner in the “who-was-worst” class, many would choose Stalin. Not too many laughs in the USSR while he was General Secretary of the ruling Communist Party.

Writer/director Armando Iannucci has made a wonderfully humorous film that begins on the night of Stalin’s death and gets increasingly comical all the way to the execution and cremation of Lavrenti Beria, the psychopathic brute with a predilection for prepubescent girls when not loyally implementing party policies that had become Stalin’s.

The film is more than a short course in Soviet political panic as the surviving members of the Politburo jockeyed for position in December 1951 when both tyrants died. It’s a brilliantly written, staged and acted account of a Kremlin in utter confusion. The events ring credible. The characters are real people. And we in the audience laugh mightily at their antics, ratiocinations, changes of mind and political course and jockeying for power driven by ambition and self interest.

Steve Buscemi is the ultimate winner

Nikita Khrushchev. Simon Russell Beale is chillingly effective and terrifyingly funny as

Beria. Michael Palin is diplomatically dithery as Molotov. As Field Marshal Zhukov weighed down by a chest-full of decorations, Jason Isaacs is a bombastic pleasure to watch.

Andrea Riseborough is Svetlana Stalin and Rupert Friend is her brother Vasily.

At Palace Electric, Hoyts and Dendy

“Blockers” (M) stinker, stinker, little star!

OF the 15 producers credited with corporate approval to make “Blockers”, only Seth Rogen’s name stands out with any film industry cred.

Rogen’s filmography is a mixed batch, some good, others not so good, all with comedy intentions. But there were 14 other guys when “Blockers” got the nod to proceed so let’s

The next stage of the production process is writing. Brothers Brian and Jim Kehoe stand accused. “Blockers” is Brian’s fourth feature and Jim’s third. Bringing the screenplay to life is the director’s job. It’s Kay Cannon’s directorial debut after co-producing a handful of movies and writing the “Pitch Perfect” trilogy.

Why am I boring you with this Movies 101 stuff? Because while producers, writers and director may have intended “Blockers” to offend Mrs Grundy (who deserves to be offended) and deliver a comical message that the conventional social order holds to be parental responsibility, their labours have

brought forth a no-brainer.

Julie (Kathryn Newton), Kayla (Geraldine Viswanathan) and Sam (Gideon Adlon) have been besties since first day at kindy. They’re 18 years old. On the morning of prom night, they are getting ready to party. Julie’s mom Lisa (Leslie Mann) finds her enrolment acceptance letter from UCLA. Why does the child she has single-mommed want to go to a university on the far side of the country?

The plot thickens when the three parents discover that the three daughters intend to lose their virginities at the prom that night. They spend most of the film trying to stop their daughters from something about which girls in late adolescence have every right to make their own decisions.

“Blockers” is touted as comedy. But it’s too single-mindedly stupid for that.

At all cinemas

“The Other Side of Hope” (M)

Who’s Finland’s best-known filmmaker?

Aki Kaurismäki. Never heard of him? That’s sad, because since his debut in 1983, he has made 17 movies embodying compassion for underdog characters. The dialogue is laconic, usually articulated without adornment, direct and in strict standard language, showing little emotion or drama.

When Wikstrom (Sakari Kuosmanen) has

a big win in a poker game, he splits with his alcoholic wife (Kaija Pakarinen) and moves to another town where he buys a rundown restaurant and its three lugubrious employees.

In a hold on a collier, Khaled (Sherwan Haji) digs himself out of the cargo, sneaks ashore and with the help of fellow Iraqi Mazdak (Simon Al-Bazoon) sets about locating his sister. Mazdak is legally in Finland and has contacts.

Khaled gets a job in the restaurant, where he and the staff try to drum up trade by adapting cuisines from foreign lands. Khaled falls foul of an anti-Semitic group. The lost sister becomes found. An anti-Semitic bully stabs Khaled in the belly. Wikstrom encounters his wife who’s been on the wagon since he left her. Folk musicians sing charming songs of rural innocence at natural pause points in the story.

This collection of events doesn’t strike you as all that funny? Look more closely at what, despite all his stylistic quirks, Kaurismaki is delivering – incongruous, wonderfully poignantly comical vignettes of the human condition in a country about which I imagine few of us know much.

You may not find reason to laugh mightily but you will find much at which to smile.

At Palace Electric

This exhibition showcases the rich collections of visual art at the Canberra Museum and Gallery (CMAG). In its 20-year history CMAG has built a collection of objects with a unique focus, which reflects both the creative breadth of its artists and the historical context of art in the Canberra region – this corner of south-eastern Australia that includes the nation’s capital, the southern tablelands, the Monaro plains and a number of towns and hamlets.

Explore Nicky Gallagher’s extensive collection of tikis and tiki-inspired memorabilia. Amassed over twenty years this private collection reflects the continuing influence of 20th century North American tiki culture and the fantasies of South Pacific life it has shaped.

CANBERRA INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL

From Beowulf to Bach and Bernstein, 23 ticketed concerts, intimate conversations with Festival artists, musical walks and free events; delve into the great masterpieces and discover the music of our time in new ways.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW www.cimf.org.au

Supa Productions presents

Is there a doctor in the house?

ARTS IN THE CITY

By Helen Musa

JORDAN Best is staging the Australian premiere of Selma Dimitrijevic’s “Dr Frankenstein” for Canberra Rep. It’s a play about women and their place in the world; about God, or His absence; about science and about the ramifications of our actions. At Theatre 3, April 6 (education preview) to 23. Bookings to canberrarep.org.au

KIDS’ THEATRE

Photo by James Penlidis

Come together and laugh with the kids

IT’S no secret that most of us parents with young kids take every opportunity for timeout that comes along because frankly, there aren’t that many.

More often than I’m proud of, I execute my finely honed “dumpand-run” manoeuvre during violin lessons and after-school programs. The sweet call of freshly brewed coffee and 20 whole minutes when the only question to answer is “what can I get you?” beckons me, and I give in.

Don’t get me wrong, this isn’t a mummy-guilt article, however, when it comes to opportunities to genuinely enjoy time together at family friendly events, I have noticed a rather alarming shift.

It seems the entertainment industry’s definition of “family friendly” has morphed into “suitable for kids while parents can tune out”. We see it all the time – parents on their phones during movies at the cinema, or kids up the front and parents down the back at live events.

It’s sad to see parents written out of live, family entertainment. Each time is a missed opportunity for us to enjoy genuine, heartfelt merriment right alongside our kids (and not just the type that comes from seeing our kids enjoy themselves).

It’s not just me who has noticed this trend. Mark Trenwith (aka Mr Snot Bottom) is one of Australia’s premiere children’s comedians and he’s incredibly passionate about bridging this great divide.

“It’s always sad seeing kids at the front and parents at the back,

not interacting with each other,” he says.

“That doesn’t happen in my shows. Nothing makes me happier than seeing parents and children laughing together and sharing the performance as a family.

“It’s all in the name of fun and many of the loudest laughs come from the parents!”

As a seasoned performer of more than 14 years’ experience, Trenwith has spent more recent years focusing his efforts towards comedy for kids.

Trenwith also runs workshops to schools and independent organisations addressing the widespread issue of bullying, utilising his humour as a conduit for breaking down walls and connecting with children on this issue.

On stage, Trenwith combines a captivating stage presence with some of the best kid-gags of all time. Such is his charisma and wit, I found myself laughing heartily at things I would normally tell my eight-yearold son off for laughing at.

I’m not going to lie to you, most of Trenwith’s show is toilet humour. Yet somehow, he takes those old school-yard gags and turns them into a masterpiece of comicality that elicits laughter from both children and adults alike.

If you can handle dealing with a little more snot and toilet humour to what you’re already enduring at home, and if you have kids aged 4-12, “Mr Snot Bottom’s Seriously Stinky Songs” is coming to College Theatre, Phillip, on April 23.

Bookings via trybooking.com

“GEOMETRY is everywhere we look: inscribed on the earth, in our buildings and our city’s plan,” says Craft ACT in announcing that the theme for November’s Design Canberra festival will be “the shape of things to come”. Submissions to designcanberrafestival.com.au

CANBERRA Youth Theatre is presenting “Filtered”, a physical theatre work tackling big questions (such as “are monsters real?”) of the kind asked by young people aged seven to 12. The guest artist will be physical theatre performer Pablo Latona. At Ralph Wilson Theatre, Gorman Arts Centre, 2.45pm and 3.30pm, Sunday, April 8. Bookings to cytc.net

DIRECTOR Adam SpreadburyMaher has emailed from London to say that his newest production of “La Boheme” for the King’s Head Theatre has been nominated for the Olivier Awards. As well, he says, the latest winners of the Stella Wilkie Award, named after the late Canberra theatre identity, will stage a show at the King’s Head in July.

“A CAPITAL Evening with The Spooky Men’s Chorale” is coming to Canberra, promising “the absurdity and grandeur of the modern male, armed only with their voices”. At the Wesley Music Centre, Forrest, Saturday, April 14. Bookings to trybooking.com or at the door.

GOOD news that “Country, for Nation”, the War Memorial’s first exhibition dedicated exclusively to exploring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories of military service, will tour nationally until 2021. The exhibition features 60 works of art by 32 artists.

ART Song Canberra’s next concert, “Songs of Solitude”, will see soprano Susannah Lawergren accompanied by pianist Benjamin Burton explore three facets of being alone. At Wesley Music Centre, 3pm, Sunday, April 8. No bookings, tickets at the door.

TOBY Cole says that this year’s Handel in the Theatre opera will be “Susanna”, to be staged in September by The Street Theatre director, Caroline Stacey, who is working with the company for the first time. Cole promises “an array of delicious characters, from virtuous to villainous, and sumptuous music”. Details at handelinthetheatre.com.au

WE hear that Chris Latham is heading to France for a month in mid-April as part of “Flowers of War”, with a visit to Amiens to showcase the much-awaited “Diggers Requiem”.

THEATRE / shakespeare Johnny makes his Marc as a complete loser

By Helen Musa

AT 35, actor Johnny Carr is rather young to be playing the ageing Marc Antony in Peter Evans’ production of “Antony and Cleopatra” for Bell Shakespeare, but he’s enjoying the challenge.

History records that the real Antony died in 30BC aged 53, making it about a 20-year age difference and Carr, a Victorian College of the Arts graduate with a BA in drama from the University of Newcastle, agrees that the role usually goes to an older actor.

“Antony’s retired in a sense, but in this version I’m playing him as someone who’s walked away from his duties at his peak rather than someone who retired and moved to the countryside,” he says.

“It’s a great character to play.”

He is quick to stress that this Marc Antony is very different from the pin-up boy (“friends Romans and countrymen”) we see in “Julius Caesar”, which incidentally, Bell Shakespeare will bring to town in October.

“His attitude is usually changed and it is a completely different take on the character, a different stage in his life.”

Needless to say, he’ll be closely watching whoever plays the young Antony.

Both plays where he appears are Roman dramas, but in “Julius Caesar”, Antony was a hero; in “Antony and Cleopatra”, he’s a loser.

“When we meet him, he fails to live up

“He fails at a lot of things and there’s a sense that he’s from another time…it’s so fun to play,” says Carr.

“There’s

DINING / morks, kingston foreshore

Inventive, refined, intriguing Thai

I’M often asked about my favourite place to eat at Kingston Foreshore. If I had to choose, my heart wouldn’t skip a beat. I’m won over by multiple award-winning Morks for its contemporary Thai cuisine.

Don’t expect ordinary Thai at Morks. Thai flavours are evident, but the creation of each dish is elevated to another level. They’re inventive. They’re refined. They’re intriguing.

If you’re with a group, share a banquet menu for a true taste of the talent that is Morks. We did and every dish was a winner.

Banquets are for a minimum of four and compulsory for groups over eight ($50 pp for a standard and $75 for a deluxe).

Morks is famous for its heavenly barbecue pork buns. These are fluffy buns packed with tender pork packed with flavour. You can’t beat them. One of our party even admitted she ordered one for dessert once, while the rest of her friends had sweets.

If you love curry, you’ll love the sweet potato dumplings. The panang curry is aromatic, rich and spicy. The dumplings are handmade and perfect parcels of goodness. An exquisite dish was the scallop, squid

Don’t expect ordinary Thai at Morks. Thai flavours are evident, but the creation of each dish is elevated to another level.

and pig salad. The scallops were succulent and the dish a beautiful transition to the start of the mains.

The next curry brought silence to the table as we focused on every bite. Morks makes a massively delicious massaman curry, this one with lamb shoulder, gently cooked so it can be cut with a fork.

We were all major fans of the fried pork ribs, with spicy soy glaze. The best finger-lickin’-good food ever and a generous serve so everyone was able to indulge in several pieces.

Lighter and more delicate, but still not shying away from distinctive flavours, was the pan-roasted barramundi. The ginger was ever present and shitake mushrooms silky smooth. With the main we enjoyed our daily dose of veggies… baby bok choy, wok tossed with a gentle but noticeable hit of chilli, tofu and fluffy Jasmine rice. Morks is run by the Ratanakosol brothers,

Greig’s play “The Events”.

“Catherine’s a powerhouse of an actress, so dynamic and full of life, she’s so fresh and won’t let things go until she completely wrestles with the words, exactly the person you want to play opposite you every night,” he says.

Central to the play is the famous love match implied in the title.

“Antony and Cleopatra inspire each other and something in each other that they haven’t found in anybody else,” Carr says.

She is a hugely intelligent woman and he suspects that Antony is no intellectual match for her. “But they both have a lust for life in terms of the way they ignite each other,” he says.

In Carr’s view, Antony is hugely insecure:

“There’s no denying that what he experiences is the uglier side of masculinity, someone who’s losing his way to the point where he asks a soldier of lower rank to help him die… it’s the last threshing of a man on his way out.”

But here’s the strange thing.

“The language is remarkable and some people say it’s the best poetry written in any of Shakespeare’s plays… It’s amazing just to say those words every night and hear how they come out differently every night – the language and the rhythm take over,” says Carr.

“Antony and Cleopatra”, The Playhouse, April 12-21. Bookings to canberratheatrecentre. com.au or 6275 2700.

Mork and Benn. The interior is open plan, contemporary and sleek. Individual tables are nicely spaced and can be configured for larger crowds. You can dine in a smallish but delightful outdoor area. The “new” Morks is twice the size of the original which opened at the Florey shops in 2008 by Mork and Benn’s parents. The mission is the same – tantalising the tastebuds of guests with original, unpredictable and exciting contemporary Thai food.

If you haven’t been to Morks for a while be aware that it’s no longer byo. The restaurant prints menus daily so they’re subject to quick change. And don’t forget to book, otherwise you may well be disappointed.

Morks, 18/19 Eastlake Parade, Kingston Foreshore. Open for dinner Tuesday-Sunday from 6 pm and lunch, Wednesday-Friday and Sunday from noon. Call 6295 0112.

time to get a lawn started

KEEPING a lawn green can be a battle in most of the country with high temperatures combined with ever increasing water rates, particularly in Canberra.

Visiting Alice Springs a few years ago I was amazed to see so many green lawns in one of the hottest, driest parts of the continent. It was explained to me the water came from artesian bores deep underground. However, not many seemed to appreciate this valuable resource with sprinklers left on, seemingly for hours, with water running down the gutters.

There are other places, believe it or not, where lawns are only to be looked at and not walked on. In Paris, I saw parks where walking on the grass is strictly forbidden. We watched a small child playing with a ball on the path. It rolled on to the grass and, as he went to retrieve it, a park attendant appeared from nowhere frantically blowing a whistle ordering the child off the grass.

Another example I read of recently was at a preschool in Charlotte, North Carolina, which had been given some play equipment, but the children were not allowed to use it because there was grass underneath – and playing on grass contravened local regulations.

Autumn is the ideal time to establish a lawn in Canberra. So let’s look at the options. Ground preparation is the same for all of the following with the ground well cultivated to 150mm. If the soil is heavy with clay apply Multicrop GroundBreaker. Being a liquid, it soaks deep into the soil as opposed to gypsum. Mix in some garden lime to keep the soil neutral.

Eliminate existing weeds with glyphosate.

The most important consideration is how the lawn is watered; the

best method is an in-ground watering system.

There are four options, the first three relate to real grass:

1. Sow grass seed.

2. Use a lawn professional to spray-seed the lawn. This is seed mixed with a mulch type material to help keep the seed from drying out too quickly.

The first two options have a problem with weeds, not necessarily in the ground but wind-borne. This means the weeds are well established before weed killers can be applied.

3. The best solution is turf. We are lucky in having our own turf company, Canturf, established more than 40 years ago. The grass varieties are selected specifically for our extremes of climate and can be seen growing at its turf farm at Fyshwick.

In all the above cases it is vital to keep the ground moist. If you do not have an automatic system this can be an onerous daily task.

Obviously the seeded lawn areas will dry out very quickly, especially on hot windy days.

4. Artificial or synthetic grass, a petroleum-based product creating pollution and waste in its manufacture. There are many disadvantages to this type of lawn. It is expensive to lay in comparison to living turf. In summer it can get extremely hot, in fact too hot for young children to play on. Choose wisely for the family’s sake.

Jottings…

• MICHAEL Cole, of Plant Growers Australia, the largest grower of perennial plants, is the guest speaker at the next Horticultural Society of Canberra meeting at the Wesley Churches Centre, National Circuit, Forrest, from 7.30pm, Monday, April 16. All welcome followed by supper.

• LANYON Homestead will hold an open day, hosted by the National Trust and ACT Historic Places, 10am-3pm, on Saturday, April 14 as part of the Heritage Festival. There will be guided tours of the gardens plus craft activities, music, dance and poetry and plenty for children. Entry by gold-coin donation.

• THERE will be a two-hour “Landscape of Learning” session at the Old Tuggeranong Homestead Schoolhouse hosted by the National Trust and the Australian Garden History Society from 2pm, Sunday, April 22. Visitors will see the developing gardens and neighbouring landscape. Entry is $10 and children free. Bookings to 6230 0533 or info@nationaltrustact.org.au

Joanne Madeline Moore

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

Mid-week looks rather stressful, as something (or someone) irritates you and tests your limited patience. So avoid the temptation to play pointless power games. Venus and Neptune encourage you to communicate in a much more diplomatic and compassionate fashion. On the weekend you’ll be given the opportunity to lead and/or influence others in some way. Don’t waste it. People are looking for you to come up with the goods so get cracking and don’t disappoint!

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)

With Venus (your patron planet) vamping through your sign (and an energy boost from Mars) you’ve got the power this week! Charm and confidence will take you places. Venus also makes a fantastic connection with Neptune. So love, romance, creativity, kindness and compassion are all on the radar, as you have fun and enjoy yourself to the max. Then Jupiter and Pluto boost love and friendship on the weekend, when you link up with pals from home or far away.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Mercury continues reversing through your peer group and goal-setting zone. So friendships will be tested and dreams delayed. If you’re smart, you’ll learn to practice the gentle art of patience (which doesn’t come easily to gung-ho Geminis). Then on Sunday, April 15, Mercury finally moves forwards and things will start to pick up. In the meantime your motto is from fellow Gemini, writer Ralph Waldo Emerson: “Adopt the pace of nature. Her secret is patience.”

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

Don’t be a lone Crab! Group projects and joint ventures are favoured as you spark ideas off each other and pool your talents to create something special. Jupiter and Pluto increase optimism and help you reform a rickety relationship that’s been experiencing problems. Setting positive new patterns of behaviour sees the union move to a deeper and more satisfying level. Being extra generous towards a child, teenager, parent or close friend brings benefits for everyone.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

Being a bossy Lion – or a demanding Diva – will lead to a myriad of frustrations mid-week. In order for your personal and professional relationships to blossom, you need to give other people plenty of space and room to shine. On the weekend you’re keen to make connections with others, as Jupiter and Pluto highlight your family and work zones. So it’s a terrific time to initiate ideas and make waves within your circle of influence. Creative collaboration is the key.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)

With Mercury still retrograde until Sunday, April 15, steer clear of negative thinkers! Make sure the people around you are a powerful influence in positive ways. (Plus double-check all paperwork and financial matters.) On Saturday, Jupiter and Pluto encourage you to reach out and help others, both within your circle of family and friends and within your local neighbourhood. You’ll find the close community connections you foster now will prove beneficial in the future.

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)

Love is in the air as Venus, Mars and Neptune rev up your romantic nature. An ambitious idea could also boost your bank balance, as you commence a fresh chapter involving home, family or finances. Which could include redecorating, renovating, relocating or welcoming a new member to the family. Whatever you do, your motto for the moment is from Libran actress Naomi Watts: “You have to make peace with yourself. The key is to find the harmony in what you have.”

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)

The Sun and Pluto clash on Wednesday. So resist the urge to be a frustrated control freak with others. Then (courtesy of Saturday’s super Jupiter/Pluto connection) you’ll be given the opportunity to lead and/or impress those around you. Jupiter also motivates you to be more adventurous with the way you present yourself or the personal projects you take on. Lady Luck is preparing to come knocking on your door. Just make sure you’re ready, willing and able to let her in!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

On Wednesday be careful you don’t upset a child, teenager or friend by making an insensitive comment. Saturday’s auspicious Jupiter/Pluto aspect encourages you to transform your life by broadening your horizons… physically, mentally and spiritually. It’s time to expand your circle of influence, and make positive changes (personally, within your neighbourhood and further afield). Stay alert so you can capitalise on lucky opportunities that come your way.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Mars, Saturn and Pluto are all transiting through your sign, which amplifies your drive and ambition. But these powerful planets also rev up your ruthless side, which can alienate you from others. So try to balance steely determination at work with a deft diplomatic touch at home. Saturday’s lucky Jupiter/Pluto link brings a welcome reprieve as you charm family members, win professional friends and influence important people. A special dream could also come true.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

With communication planet Mercury still reversing through your internet zone (until Sunday, April 15) be careful what you post on social media. On the weekend, prosperous Jupiter and strategic Pluto help you to prioritise your current commitments and plan your long-term goals for the future. If you devise a firm direction forward, then financial luck is waiting in the wings via a new job, client, bonus or promotion. Volunteer work could also be extremely rewarding.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Wednesday and Thursday nights are wonderful for a candlelit dinner when Venus, Mars and Neptune ratchet up the romance factor. And many creative Pisceans will burn the midnight oil, as inspiration strikes. On the weekend, your involvement with a group, club or organisation has others looking to you for an action plan. So use your networking skills to drum up support, and don’t be afraid to ask experts for help. International connections could be particularly beneficial.

Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore

2018

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THURSDAY APRIL 19

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