CityNews 181101

Old rockers still rule, OK?

JOHN SCHUMANN

How many times does Labor have to be told?

PAUL COSTIGAN

Strangling land supply drives prices sky high JON STANHOPE Barr’s back… then he’s not!

MICHAEL MOORE

KILLER Queenie

HELEN MUSA meets the ‘gorgeous dominatrix’ of ‘We Will Rock You’

Injured in a motor vehicle accident?

Don’t delay call MEJ.

Dave’s big day of winning ways for teens

By Danielle NOHRA

AFTER 15 years in the making, Dave Barrie’s childhood dream to run a school initiative to “train teenagers” will come true on November 19 when he goes into St Edmund’s College and takes over year 10 for the day.

“Basically, we need to start altering the curriculum and what we teach in schools in a big way,” says Dave, 31, of Crace.

“I’ve seen the gap in the education system and in the years ahead I’ll be the drill that’ll fill in the gaps.”

Titled “Everybody Wins”, Dave – a personal development trainer – will run sessions on leadership and how to deal with emotions, while three-time cham pion fitness model Ben “AbStacker” Handsaker and two-time world cham pion fitness model Hattie Boydle will talk about exercise and nutrition.

Dave says the year 10 boys will also learn financial skills from “leading accountant” David Ross.

“They’re some of the best at what they do in Australia,” he says.

Dave’s pitched the initiative for year 10 students because, he says, that’s the age where people are struggling with their identity.

“They might not be able to be true to themselves,” he says.

“But we set them up to win. We show them where we go, the books we read, the podcasts we listen to.”

It was at the age of 15 at Yass High when Dave, an active sportsperson, decided he wanted to bring sports champions to Australian schools to train teenagers.

But it hasn’t been an easy path for Dave, who faced obstacles such as being turned on by his peer group in high school and then in his 20s being sexually abused.

Regardless of these challenges he says he chose to not dwell on them or “become a victim of the world”.

“My peer group would turn on me because I would calmly call them out for so -

Since 1993: Volume 24, Number 41

cial injustice for other people who weren’t able to defend themselves,” he says.

With the right coaching, personal application and effort, Dave believes people’s lives can improve dramatically.

“You’re able to radically change your life at any time,” he says.

“You can have your childhood dreams. It’s a choice to be a victim of the world. It might meet the victim’s needs in the short term. I’m giving them the option of which road they choose.”

As part of the initiative Dave says a workbook will be given to the students so they can share it with parents, family members and friends, and become familiar with the fundamental principles of personal development.

“It’s our invitation for all people to understand how to radically transform their quality of life at any time,” he says.

“People who overcome tremendous adversity and continually keep defying the odds and still achieve at the highest levels don’t because it’s an accident.

“They operate differently, believe different things and play full-out.”

Connecting the dots early on, Dave says he can do what schools can’t and is in the process of challenging the ACT government for funding so he’s able to bring the initiative on an ongoing basis to more schools.

“I need to pressure them and once we can show them that we can do this, then we can train children quicker and more effectively than what they have,” he says.

Bring out your weeds...

THE annual spring weed swap, where householders can replace invasive weeds with native alternatives for free, will be held on the weekend of November 3-4.

“Established gardens have older style plants, many of which we now know are invasive, such as privet, cotoneaster, pyracantha (firethorn) and hawthorn,” says invasive plants co-ordinator, ACT Parks and Conservation, Steve Taylor.

“Even some plants available from nurseries are known to be invasive and escape into our reserves such as gazania, freesia, Mexican feather grass, harlequin flower and Spanish heath.

“Lots of ACT residents don’t know they are harbouring these pest plants which can escape from gardens into bushland where they grow vigorously, threatening local plant and animal species.

“A range of attractive, native plants will be available for swapping, including small trees such as wattles, shrubs including Correa, groundcovers like paper daisies and native tussock grasses.”

Weed Swap will be held at Corkhills Green Waste Recycling Centre, Mugga Lane and CSG Green Waste Recycling Centre, Parkwood Road, Belconnen 8.30am-4.30pm.

Arts & Entertainment 26-28

Cinema 28

Crossword 29 Dining 28 Gardening 30

3-10

photos 16-17

Managing Director: James Anderson, 0404 077605, james@citynews.com.au

Director: Kate Meikle, kate@citynews.com.au

Senior advertising account executive: David Cusack, 0435 380656

Advertising account executives: Damien Klemke, 0439 139001; Emily Lester, 0406 412462

Editor: Ian Meikle, editor@citynews.com.au

Flemington Rd, Mitchell 2911

by Ian Meikle, 9b/189 Flemington Road, Mitchell. Cover: Queenie van de Zandt. Photo by Claudio Raschella. Story Page 26.

Journalists: Danielle Nohra, danielle@citynews.com.au; Kathryn Vukovljak, kathryn@citynews.com.au

Arts editor: Helen Musa, 0400 043764, helen@citynews.com.au

Production manager / graphic design: Janet Ewen

Graphic designer: Paulette Leo

Proof reader: Glenda Anderson

Accounts manager: Bethany Freeman-Chandler accounts@citynews.com.au

SEVEN DAYS

After 60 years, Chris gets his apology

A CANBERRA man who has been suffering for more than 60 years on an almost daily basis from the effects of sexual abuse, says the National Apology speech “finally got it”.

Raped by a Catholic teaching brother in Tasmania at the age of eight, 71-year-old Chris was anxious and undecided about attending the historic event. He’s now glad he did. Chris said the speeches by Prime Minister Scott Morrison and opposition leader Bill Shorten – which brought him to tears –“captured the mood”, and while the pain of abuse will never fade, attending the event enabled him to “climb another mountain”.

AFTER the official ceremony Morrison visited Parliament House lawns where he moved comfortably among hundreds of sexual-abuse survivors, their families and supporters, chatting, hugging and patiently listening to their painful stories.

HumanHeadline: “Today was one of the most humbling days of my life. Walking around Parliament House lawns after the National Apology from Morrison and Shorten was amazing. The pain in grown-men’s eyes said it all.”

the heartfelt mea culpa “I’m sorry, we tried”.

SEEMS like the cynics may have had a win on the Light Rail project.

Many scoffed at the “coming in 2018” slogan plastered on promotional material draped along the route. It has been confirmed the project is lagging several months behind schedule.

In July I reported that while the project may well be completed in December, first passengers would not be carried until the first quarter of 2019.

Chopper

rides

HELICOPTER rides offering a bird’s-eye view of the scenic Tinderry mountains will feature at the Michelago spring fair as will craft stalls, rural produce, a barbecue, Devonshire teas, ice cream and fairy floss. There will be music from Ivy Lane and Bill Lane plus a petting zoo, jumping castle and sheep dog and shearing displays. Entry by gold-coin donation at Michelago Oval, Ryrie Street, 10am-3pm on Sunday, November 11.

Elizabeth tells tales

requirements” visit. Zoltan is still shaking his head at their professionalism. And ScoMo’s fave gelato? Boysenberry Cheesecake.

As his minders became anxious, the PM had run way over time, ‘70s pop heartthrob Daryl Braithwaite came to the rescue. The former Sherbet front man and his band rocked into the first bars of their set giving ScoMo the cue to move. With a quick nod to Braithwaite the PM and his posse were gone.

A TWEET from independent senator Derryn Hinch – also a child sex-abuse survivor –perfectly captured the mood on the lawns of Parliament House. Hinch tweeted on @

A LITTLE over 24 hours later the PM’s behind-the-scenes-crew went above and beyond to prepare a Mitchell small business for a visit. At 9.30pm Tuesday Pure Gelato owner Zoltan Tolgyesi agreed to host Morrison and a media pack of 30 early the following morning, but was concerned his shop wasn’t prime ministerial ready.

“No problem,” said the advance crew, “meet you there in 20 minutes”. Sleeves were rolled up, rubber gloves employed and by 11pm the showroom was ready for the PM’s “energy

IN a week of apologies, another politician issued one of his own. Frustrated Liberal MLA Mark Parton posted a two-minute video aimed at “individuals languishing at the end of a long public housing waiting list, struggling to afford private rental.”

Parton claims his Land Tax Amendment Bill would have “eased the rental affordable crisis in the ACT” but without support from Labor and the Greens it failed. A defeated Parton offered

THE penny has finally dropped at Canberra radio station Mix 106.3. After countless efforts to import talent to snag a greater slice of the local audience local lad Nigel Johnson is returning to breakfast radio. Installing one half of the hugely successful FM 104.7 duo of Scotty and Nige has always been a “no brainer’. A truism in radio is that localism wins. Blow-ins constantly mentioning “Tuggers” or “Charnie” or Mooseheads will fail dismally against the genuine local “cred” of Johnson and those of his radio ilk.

HISTORIAN Elizabeth Burness, from the Tuggeranong Schoolhouse, will regale the ladies of the Canberra City VIEW Club with stories at their next dinner meeting at the Yowani Country Club, 455 Northbourne Avenue, Lyneham, 6pm, on Wednesday, November 14. Interested ladies welcome, the cost is $37 and rsvp to 0404 811106 or via canberracityevening.viewclub@ gmail.com

Family fun

PEOPLE from all backgrounds are welcome at the Southside Bible Church’s fun evening for families on Saturday, December 1, at the Namadgi School, Kambah. The event features gingerbread-house making, a puppet show based on the Christmas story from Sydney’s Quiz Worx, a sausage sizzle and lucky door prizes. Book at southsidebiblechurch.com.au

MY friend Rob Hirst, Midnight Oil’s drumming powerhouse, gave my son Matthew a snare drum on a stand and a pair of sticks for his 12th birthday. Matthew was ecstatic. His parents, as some of you might imagine, were less so. Nonetheless, over the years and with not a little pride, I’ve watched Matt turn into a pretty handy drummer. But it’s taken some years. Dear reader, bear with me here as there is a point to what follows. In broad terms, a drummer’s contribution to a song comprises “time” and “fills”. “Time” is the simple, unfussy beat which underpins the whole song and provides that indefinable element we musicians call “feel”. On the other hand, “fills” are when the drummer deploys many more components of the kit, usually to mark the transition from one part of the song to the next. When Matthew graduated to his first full kit, his contribution to the world of music was always going to comprise 95 per cent “fills” and 5 per cent “time”.

Like all young drummers, Matthew felt that if he was not hitting every piece of his kit every 10 seconds, he was a fool to himself and a burden to the rest of the musical world.

Tiring quickly of listening to endless “fills”, I gaffer-taped the eager young player to a kitchen chair and made him listen carefully to Charlie Watts from the Rolling Stones, pointing out that Charlie spent 97 per cent of his time playing “time”. Matthew

I do think we can learn a little from the way Americans deal with their older artists. I think it’s true that the older a writer/performer gets, the better he/she gets.

came to realise that playing solid “time” is much, much harder than stringing together an endless series of “fills”. The point of all this is this: as we get older, generally speaking, we get better.

A couple of years ago I went to see Jackson Browne in concert at the Festival Theatre in Adelaide.

I’ve always been a big Jackson Browne fan though my admiration for him increased tenfold when he stopped writing songs about strewing caraway seeds around the canyons of his mind and started writing songs about the state of the world. Jackson Browne is 70 years old this year and is, without doubt, at the top of his game.

At home in America he is, quite properly, revered. His capacity to sell tickets and records is undiminished. He is but one example of the way that Americans respect their writers and performers as they get older. Willie Nelson, Jackson Browne, the Eagles, Tom Waits – clearly heritage artists but clearly much loved, respected and supported by their audiences.

In Australia, it’s a different matter. With a number of notable exceptions, the music industry rule here is that once you turn 35, the powers-that-be

(usually much older themselves) usher you gently off the stage. You are replaced with talented, younger artists who are prepared to do what they’re told. Careers for the over 35s, thereafter, are largely confined to nostalgia concerts and the discount bins.

Interestingly, Australian audiences will turn out in enthusiastic droves and pay big money to see international heritage acts. Even when Australian audiences do turn out for our own heritage acts, they are less interested in new repertoire. Perhaps not unreasonably, they expect the performance to largely comprise regurgitated “hits and memories”. It’s only the truly dedicated fans who are prepared to listen to an artist’s new work with open ears – and open wallets.

It’s frustrating but true that Australian audiences are very supportive of “tribute acts” but less so of original artists in career transition. There is the apocryphal story of Cold Chisel guitarist Ian Moss playing to a small audience in an Australian country town while down the road, on the same night, another pub was packed to the gills with fans watching a Cold Chisel tribute act. I am not wholly lost in admiration

NDIS School Age Therapy Services

EACH Child is a multi-disciplinary therapy service working with NDIS participants from 7 years of age to 18. We are based at Hawker, where we are able to see clients, but we can also travel to you at home, school or in the community throughout Canberra. Appointments available immediately. We will work with you to help your child develop the skills they need to take part in everyday activities.

We offer:

• Team based (multi-disciplinary) therapy

• Occupational therapy

• Speech therapy

• Psychology

• Physiotherapy

• Working with children aged 7-18 (and younger children in some circumstances)

EACH’s team approach offers you:

• Support that goes beyond just therapy – we include advocacy, emotional support, and collaboration with other services

• A co-ordinated approach to your child’s therapy

for all things American but I do think we can learn a little from the way they deal with their older artists. I think it’s true that the older a writer/ performer gets, the better he/she gets. This is because we’ve had a bit of time to reflect, to listen appreciatively and learn from the work of others and to trust our own judgement rather than that of others.

For my part, I’ve learned that less is more and that the real music exists in the silences. I’ve also learned to accept what I am good at and what I’m not. Speaking with my peers, I find that in these things I am not alone.

I’m even more opinionated than I used to be, if that is conceivable, because in my 60s I really don’t care what anybody thinks. Given the ACT chief minister’s recent criticisms of Canberrans “of a certain age”, I certainly don’t care what he thinks.

John Schumann will perform his own “hits and memories” as well as songs from his new album, “Ghosts and Memories” at the Southern Cross Club, Saturday, November 10. Book at premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show. aspx?sh=SCHUMANN18

Upselling hearing loss: retail hearing aids

Last week, I was approached by a patient looking for a second opinion. The week prior she had been to a retail hearing aid store in her local shopping centre, hoping to get some advice regarding her hearing loss. As a pensioner, she should have been able to claim free hearing aids as part of the Australian Government’s hearing loss scheme under the Office of Hearing Services, but when she inquired about the program she was told by the salesperson that the governmentissued hearing aids were of poor quality and inadequate for her needs.

”We need to speak out and about what is going on in the hearing aid industry if we want change.”

– Dr Vass

The salesperson insisted what she needed was one of their more expensive hearing aids, priced at over $7,000 for a pair. Anxious about not being able to afford what seemed to be a necessity, she reached out to a friend who suggested she make an appointment with me for a second opinion.

After consulting with the patient and looking over her results, it became

clear to me that the assessment from the shopping centre was completely wrong. The patient had had surgery on one ear 20 years ago which had resulted in worse hearing loss in that ear and not the other. Yet the “hearing test” from the shopping centre showed that her hearing was equal in both ears. Was this because the tester was incompetent or the equipment was faulty? Or was it just an attempt to cover up a medical condition that would have required the patient to be seen by a doctor before hearing aids could even be considered for her? It is likely we’ll never know the answer, but any of the above explanations would be unacceptable.

We need to speak out and about what is going on in the hearing aid industry if we want change. Anyone who has a similar story can report it to the ACCC.

If you would like to have a complimentary second opinion with Dr Vass please phone 02 6282 2717 to make an appointment.

POLITICS

Barr’s back... then not

THE old Andrew was back. Or so it seemed. Watching the fire in Chief Minister Andrew Barr’s face as he backed the rights of gay and lesbian teachers and students was really so refreshing. Yep! The spark in his eyes, his manner and his strong leadership was back. The old Andrew fired up and fighting for the vulnerable.

The spark was on Monday in late October, this year’s eleventh sitting week. Tuesday was a different story. The question moved away from LGBTIQ to other vulnerable people seeking rental affordability. However, the legislation by opposition Shadow Minister for Housing, Mark Parton, was discarded on a technicality. The technicality later.

The irony is that the Liberals were finally being “liberals” rather than conservatives. Parton was laudably working to ensure more affordable housing. He had picked up on a motion of the Greens’ MLA Caroline Le Couteur who had put a motion in the Assembly to call for a discount on Land Tax.

The idea was to motivate landlords to offer lower rate rentals to people trying to afford their rent. This would mean a contribution from the landlord in foregone rent and a contribution from the public purse in foregone land tax. The winner – more affordable housing for the most vulnerable.

A motion encourages government. However, there was no action from Housing Minister Yvette Berry. Mark Parton moved. He prepared and introduced the Land Tax (Community Housing Exemption) Amendment Bill 2018 in a sitting week in September. Ironically, the legislation would effectively force them to go beyond lip service and do something which they had publicly acknowledged as a sensible approach to an important social issue.

Rather than the community interest being priority one, the debate fell once again into a them-and-us. There was a simple way to put the community interest first. Option one was to suspend that part of Standing Orders that would prevent the legislation from being considered. With full agreement of the Assembly this would have worked. However, concerns about setting precedents prevailed. Other options remained.

The legislation was disallowed by the Speaker on the grounds that it was a “money bill”. The Self Government Act is effectively the ACT Constitution and prevents anyone, other than a Minister, from introducing

Arrogant advertising?

IT would appear either arrogance or defiance that Bayer/Monsanto mounted a television advertising campaign for its glyphosate product. These ads followed almost immediately after the ABC’s “Four Corners” program revealed its possible links to cancer.

This also followed my gardening column (CN, October 4) where I reported that the Diggers Club of Victoria had expressed serious concerns on the continued use of glyphosate and that numerous countries had now banned the use of this herbicide.

In Australia I understand an increasing number of councils have stopped using it electing to employ alternative methods for weed control. It is under review by the World Health Organization and the Royal Horticultural Society in the UK.

The spark was on Monday in late October. Tuesday was a different story. The question moved away from LGBTIQ to other vulnerable people seeking rental affordability.

legislation for the appropriation of taxes. As the Speaker, in disallowing the legislation, pointed out: “The bill does not contravene the provisions of standing orders 200, 201 and 201A, as it is not a proposed enactment for the appropriation of public money.”

However, Speaker Joy Burch went further with the advice referring precedents set federally and in the mid-1990s in the Legislative Assembly regarding money bills.

House of Representatives Standing Order 179 restricts such power to Ministers to “initiate a proposal to impose, increase, or decrease a tax or duty, or change the scope of any charge”. On these grounds the Bill was disallowed.

An attempt by the Liberal’s Andrew Wall to suspend Standing Orders was not successful.

Greens’ leader Shane Rattenbury explained: “We are stuck here. We do not like it” and later “we accept that there are rules and there are boundaries”.

He added “there are rules and boundaries”.

The second option is that Shane Rattenbury is a Minister… however, moving outside his own portfolio with a money bill also sets an inappropriate precedent.

However, the simplest solution was right there in front of the government. Option three was up to Andrew Barr, or his deputy Yvette Berry. Where was the spark? With precedent so important to them, all they had to say was “at the next available opportunity, the Housing Minister will table this bill”.

Where was the fire in the belly? Such a move would have been a credit to Andrew Barr’s government. It would also have been a credit to the Greens and to the Liberals.

Granted, the Assembly is the place for testing different ideas. However, when there is furious agreement, isn’t a co-ordinated approach the thing the community wishes to see? At least occasionally.

Cedric Bryant, Watson Cedric is also the gardening writer for “CityNews”.

Pressing for pop-ups

AS columnist John-Paul Romano (CN, October 18) said, Canberra’s true gems are hiding in plain sight: the neglected Sydney and Melbourne Buildings on Northbourne Avenue. While separately titled and with multiple owners, the landlords of the empty shop fronts should be required to display pop-up installations and artworks in their windows until tenanted, just as has happened on Newcastle’s Hunter Street and Sydney’s Oxford Street during Mardi Gras.

Danny Corvini, Deakin

Say thanks for the poppies

COLUMNIST Mike Welsh (Seven Days, CN, October 18) wrote of the field of poppies at the Australian War Memorial. He gave credit to Phillip Johnson for the work of the 62,000 poppies planted on the lawns by saying they were the work of an award-winning landscape designer. What he failed to give credit for was the army of people who made the poppies and planted them. Mr Johnson may have come up with the idea, but he certainly did not make or plant all the poppies.

There would be too many people to name individually, but at least he could have acknowledged that. I was not one that helped but I have friends that did.

Write to us

Vi Evans, via email

Let loose to: editor@citynews.com.au or write to the editor at: 9b / 189 Flemington Road, Mitchell 2911

CANBERRA MATTERS

How many times does Labor have to be told?

CANBERRA has been very fortunate to have residents who have stepped up to be leaders of our community associations. These individuals undertake an extraordinary amount of voluntary work to try to secure the future of our city for present and future generations.

Canberra residents want their cherished city to remain human scale and to be enhanced as the bush capital – more trees, green spaces and biodiversity – not less.

This passion drives the thinking of many who run and attend community council meetings. That’s why we live here and not elsewhere with traffic problems, lack of green and grey infrastructure and increasing skylines of towers of machine architecture.

A 21st century vision for Canberra should be focused on being people oriented, being livable and sustainable – and recognise heritage.

Our city needs good political and bureaucratic leadership, people with innovative corporate management

Canberrans want their cherished city to remain human scale and to be enhanced as the bush capital –more trees, green spaces and biodiversity – not less.

expertise matched with a creative and forward-looking approach. Such leadership needs to ensure that deeds match lofty words – otherwise those visionary words become more useless and dangerous spin.

Mentioning such spin brings us back to the present ACT government. It specialises in spin. It does not provide good leadership.

The ACT’s Labor/Greens government has a published vision for this city to be “one of the world’s most livable and competitive cities –welcoming to all”. As visions go it is not brilliant (being polite). It is hard to believe that anyone thought that statement represents the aspirations of the city’s highly engaged, culturally interested people.

A point of difference developed before the 2016 election with the Chief Minister stating that he needed to look for planning and development comments from people not engaged with the pesky community councils. Following that election the govern-

ment established its own citizen forums – apparently a more effective form of community engagement.

Two lists of priorities have recently been generated – the first on “Housing Choices” and the second titled “Better Suburbs”:

Housing Choices: character, environment, lifestyle & diversity, planning & approvals, public housing, construction quality, design quality and zoning.

Better Suburbs: Lakes, ponds, stormwater, water quality, street & park trees, household waste & recycling, public spaces, waste & recycling, roads, public spaces (parks & open spaces) including mowing, library services, footpaths, verges & nature strips, graffiti & community engagement, streetlights, play spaces; shopping centre experience, maintenance, parking, paths, traffic management, responsible pet ownership; community ovals & fitness stations.

There are no surprises. Residential groups have constantly promoted such priority lists. Other issues that are mentioned in meetings are biodiversity (keep our small birds), arts and community facilities, heritage, and the

NEWS / design canberra Rachael’s designs on Canberra

“CANBERRA is most definitely a design city,” says Rachael Coghlan, CEO of Craft ACT and artistic director of the fifth Design Canberra Festival.

“When I look on the ‘axis’ from Mt Ainslie it takes my breath away,” she adds, summing up the collective feeling.

With visitation numbers of 94,455 in 2017, up 37 per cent from the previous year, the numbers for Design Canberra are “enough”, she says.

“We want to keep the free spirit of the event, so most events are free, although there are some ticketed ones, like the bus tours and the opening party at Monaro Mall,” Coghlan says.

“But the whole festival is a collaboration with the community.”

This is the third year running they’ll be holding the popular “Living Rooms” venture, in which people can get behind closed doors into beautiful, architect-designed houses enlivened by pop-up exhibitions of works on sale by local artists.

If you call Canberra a “design city”, you can’t get away from history – everyone’s heard of the

Griffins, Walter and Marion, but it didn’t stop with them and this year’s architecture tours, presented by local enthusiast Martin Miles, will look at the 2018 Design Canberra theme, “geometry”, and at one of the city’s most important living modernist architects Enrico Taglietti, still going strong at 92.

Access to artists’ open studios is another successful aspect of Design Canberra, where you can just walk in, but they’re trying to focus it over weekends and assist people to get around and see Canberra‘s art-makers.

Among the other inspiring global design figures coming this year will be computational super-designer Dave Pigram from the firm ETH Zürich. He went to Giralang Primary School, which was designed by –

who else? – Enrico Taglietti. The festival’s international line-up also includes Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, whose work “Namako” is a three-metrehigh, 12-metre-wide ephemeral architectural installation on Aspen Island involving 40,000 zip-ties. The program shows a smorgasbord of music, poetry, night adventures and above all, quirky events that stretch the parameters of design. For one day only, on November 22, in “Museum of Possibilities”, Montreal’s “Daily Tous Les Jours” will transform City Hill into a field of balloons which will invite visitors to share their dreams and visions for Canberra. Design Canberra, November 5-25, book at designcanberrafestival.com.au

developments – as they

has feedback from its

traffic chaos caused by lack of realistic planning (Gungahlin and Molonglo) and the plonking of questionable developments into older suburbs.

All the topics, and more, are consistently debated at community meetings and have informed submissions in the hope of bringing about positive, intelligent and creative changes to planning and development. So far there have been few successes from these many submissions. This is mainly because the ACT government rarely acknowledges the priorities of local community groups. Whenever our beloved ACT Labor/Greens ministers and their bureacrats talk up questionable

own citizen forums, surely they can see that their results align with what they have been told for years. So what is the government to do?

If there was effective, honest and intelligent leadership within this Labor/Greens government, there would be an acknowledgement of this validation of the community’s priorities and then they would rapidly publish actions and deliver against these issues. Too optimistic? Probably.

Paul Costigan is an independent commentator and consultant on the visual arts, photography, urban design, environmental issues and everyday matters.

CELEBRATE

Strangling land supply drives prices sky high

IT was heartwarming to read recently the story of Christine Van, an extremely determined, young, single, Canberra mother who has realised her dream of owning her own home.

SATU RDAY 10TH N OVEM B ER 2 - 7PM COOK PL ACE, COOK

TH E COOK GROCER’S 15TH B IRTH DAY WE WOULD TO SEE YOU TH ERE TO SUPPORT OUR LOCAL COM MUNITY

Come and sample our Local Producers Market featuring Canberra’s finest food and beverage producers:

• Pialligo Estate • Jasper & Myrtle • The Canberra Distillery

• Three Mills Bakery • Krofne • Bentspoke Brewery

• Capital Brewing Co. • Sweet Pea & Poppy • Super Bao

• Stockman’s Sticks • Capital Wines • Yia Yias Kitchen

• Sabi Beverages • Hungry Brown Cow • Shaw Vineyard

• Loose Gourmet Churros • The Creperie • Highgate Lane

• Lake George Wines • 3 Sons Cider • Bombolini

• Lavenders & Lace • to name a few…

• Fun Zone for the kids

• Creative’s area including local makers & an interactive art space

• Community Stage featuring local performances – dance, singing & musicians

• Showcasing our Local Community Organisations and their contributions to Cook

• Plus so MUCH MORE…

Christine has for the last seven years lived in affordable rental accommodation owned and managed by Community Housing Canberra (CHC), a tier one social housing provider established by the ACT government following the development of the Affordable Housing Action Plan (AHAP) of 2007.

As a tenant of CHC and consistent with its operating model, Christine paid rent set at 75 per cent of the market rate, which assisted her to save enough for a deposit for her first home, one of 10 homes built by CHC at Throsby on land acquired by it under the land-rent scheme.

The land-rent scheme, like the establishment of CHC, was an initiative of the AHAP.

With the greatest of respect to Christine it is possible that without CHC or the land-rent scheme that she, like thousands of other Canberra families, would still be locked out of the housing market. Perhaps even for life.

The establishment of CHC and the funding arrangements under which it was established and which assured its success over the last 10 years together with the adoption of the land-rent scheme have been acknowledged nationally as two of the most successful housing-affordability initiatives pursued anywhere in Australia in the last decade.

Upon its establishment, CHC was provided with a $3 million capital injection; title to 132 public housing properties; a $50 million revolving finance facility to enable 1000 new affordable dwellings within 10 years and was guaranteed access to 120 blocks of land a year, through an MOU with the Land Development Agency.

In October, the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI), following a national review, released a report, “Government Led Innovations in Affordable Housing Delivery”, in which it said: “CHC is now one of the most successful not-for-profit developers in Australia.

Its 2016 annual report reveals that it is holding over $113 million in equity, and has cash reserves of more than $28 million. They have developed 859 properties since 2007-08 and have taken 515 to market. Their growth has been a direct outcome of the AHAP, and is an excellent case study of how a reasonably small public investment can provide an enduring stream of affordable housing supply. They are an enduring legacy of the AHAP.”

AHURI went on to say: “The success of CHC reveals that a reasonably small degree of support provided the circumstances for a single-community housing provider to add 500 affordable rental units within a 10-year period. The key ingredients that enabled this were ready access to cheap debt finance and access to land.”

While ironic it is also unutterably sad that at the very time that AHURI was undertaking its review of housing-affordable initiatives across Australia and had identified CHC as perhaps the single most effective housingaffordability initiative of any government anywhere in Australia the ACT Greens/Labor

I have struggled to understand why Labor and the Greens abandoned the ACT Affordable Housing Action Plan and I refuse to accept that flooding the market with cheap, high-rise, one and two-bedroom flats is a valid replacement plan.

government called in the $50 million revolving finance facility, thus denying CHC access to cheap finance, and cancelled the MOU guaranteeing CHC access to land.

In addition to abandoning its commitment to CHC the ACT Greens/Labor government has reduced the supply of land for detached housing to such a degree that there are now only very limited opportunities for anyone to access the land-rent scheme.

The decision to strangle the supply of land for detached housing has pushed prices through the roof and created a level of demand for land, whether for purchase or land rent, that effectively excludes anyone in the bottom two and a half income quintiles from the market.

I have struggled, and comprehensively failed, to understand why Labor and the Greens abandoned the ACT Affordable Housing Action Plan and I refuse to accept that flooding the market with cheap, high-rise, one and two-bedroom flats is a valid replacement plan.

When Greens leader Shane Rattenbury was asked why the Greens had supported the decision of Chief Minister Andrew Barr and Housing Minister Yvette Berry to terminate the revolving finance facility, which was central to the ability of CHC to deliver affordable housing, and to no longer guarantee CHC access to land for housing but to require it instead to go to market and to bid against commercial builders and developers, he responded to the effect that by removing all government support for CHC and requiring it to access finance and land on commercial terms would force it, in his view and that of the government, to “become more flexible”. That is a bit like saying to someone who has just had their legs amputated after an accident that they will need to shape up and “become more flexible”.

My prediction is that if the ACT government does not reverse its hostility to CHC that within a few years CHC will cease building affordable houses for sale and that ultimately it will need to sell existing rental stock in order to be able to meet its operating expenses.

Jon Stanhope was chief minister from 2001 to 2011 and represented Ginninderra for the Labor Party from 1998. He is the only chief minister to have governed with a majority in the Assembly.

Cool ideas to be ready for the long, hot summer BEAT THE HEAT

CANBERRA is facing another long, hot summer and for those without any measures in place over the warmer months it may be a challenge to keep cool.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology the average maximum temperature at Canberra Airport last summer was 30.5C, which was 3.4C above the historical average.

Last summer also saw a record-breaking 53 days above 30C and 18 days above 35C.

To help Canberrans “beat the heat” before this summer begins, “CityNews” has been in touch with businesses dedicated to keeping their customers cool.

Jenny’s patio ideas can save on cooling costs

AFTER a long winter period, National Patios’ sales manager Jenny Gresham says it’s important to be able to enjoy the outdoors in summer, which is why it has unique products to offer protection from the heat.

“Our products not only keep you cool in summer but protect your home from harsh heat and therefore save on cooling costs,” she says.

Established in Canberra about 15 years ago, Jenny says National Patios is a one-stop-shop for design, council approvals (if needed), right through to the build.

“We design and build anything from a small patio or deck to large home extensions, rooms and entertainment areas,” she says.

“During the build, you are looked after by the owner of the business, not a manager.

“He cares and is passionate about people, and attention to detail.

“We pride ourselves on our free design-and-quote service that offers time to transfer your unique needs and concepts into a reality.

“[And] we find solutions for all areas.”

As National Patios is local and well established, Jenny says it’s a long-term member of the Housing Industry Association and Masters Builders Association.

“We are in the unique position where we can cater to all levels of budgets due to our extensive product range,” she says.

“[And] we have a beautiful showroom in Fyshwick, where folks can come and relax, and have a hands-on experience with product options.”

National Patios, Unit 1/289 Canberra Avenue, Fyshwick. Call 6147 0844 or 6257 3952, or visit nationalpatios.com.au

Clark Electrical Services is a long established and leading electrical company in the Canberra. Whether you require an electrician for renovations, are in need of new home wiring services, full-home wiring replacement service, have insurance claims or inspections pending or are extending your home, Clark Electrical Service has got you covered. We provide electrical inspections, routine electrical wiring maintenance, and will consult with you on ways to make your home more energy efficient.

$100 off

• We cover all of Canberra.

• We employ only qualified and experienced electricians.

• We don’t charge the earth.

• We appreciate our loyal customers.

• Seniors discounts avaliable

• $49 electrical inspections

BEAT THE HEAT advertising

Aaron has the answers for hot (and cold) weather

WITH such extreme weather variants in Canberra, Clark Electrical & Air Conditioning can help keep Canberrans cool in the summer and warm in the winter, says owner Aaron Clark.

“It’s easier to have one machine that does both aspects of heating and cooling,” he says.

“The running costs are cheaper than gas and if you have solar on the house it becomes almost free.”

Aaron worked as an electrician and heating expert for more than 25 years before moving into air conditioning.

He started Clark Electrical & Air Conditioning about two years ago and says his team is reliable and provides a professional service.

“We’re professional, we look professional and we can do the whole job from start to finish,” he says.

“We ask what the customers need and provide them with options.”

Clark Electrical & Air Conditioning also offers all electrical services for around the house such as lighting upgrades, switchboard upgrades and ceiling fans.

Clark Electrical & Air Conditioning. Call 1300 230462 or visit clarkelectricalservices.com.au

says Regency Knights Window Fashions

“The best way to keep your house cooler in summer is to put some external awnings over your windows to prevent the heat from getting into the home,” he says.

“We have over 20 different awning types, with four different fabric types and four different operation types including motorised.

“[But] January and February is the busiest time for awnings so, if you’re smart, beat the rush and get in early.”

Martin says people can call for a measure

room and see their wide range of awnings, as well as curtains, blinds and shutters.

The locally-owned family business has more than 50 years’ experience in the community and has been operating under the name Regency Knights Window Fashions since 2009 after two well-established Canberra businesses merged.

“We’ve really worked at having a higher level of service,” he says.

Regency Knights Window Fashions, Unit 1, 60 Wollongong Street, Fyshwick. Call 6147 0469 or visit regencyknights.com.au

SAVING people time and money, Oldmate ACT has the experience to provide a range of services such as plumbing, refrigeration, gas fitting, electrical, cooling and heating.

It’s a “one-stop-shop” says director Tim Drage, who has more than 15 years’ experience in the industry.

“When people have various issues within their household, they can just come to the one company,” he says.

“We can help them out with a majority of their appliances and different fixtures within the house.”

And that also goes for businesses, as Oldmate ACT works commercially, too.

As for the quality of work, Tim says it’s the highest because they work hard to get it right so they’re only at a job once.

“Our qualified staff are always on hand to answer any questions and give the best possible advice and will always provide you with quality service at a competitive price,” he says.

“We also have a quick turn around and offer an emergency service as well.

“It’s 24 hours, so if someone has a burst water pipe flooding the house, we can come and fix it.”

Oldmate ACT. Call 6254 6576, email office@ oldmateact.com.au or visit oldmateact.com.au

BEAT THE HEAT advertising feature

Home-builder Steve has eco-friendly solutions

BORDEAUX Constructions and Bordeaux Kitchens can design eco-friendly homes for people looking to keep cool in the summer or warm in the winter, says owner Steve Milutinovic.

“The main reason people build an eco-friendly home is to keep the costs of utilities down, especially electricity,” he says.

Steve started his own cabinetmaking business in 1983 and, 35 years on, Bordeaux Constructions and Bordeaux Kitchens now specialise in

Diamond Window Tints is a small, family owned business with a mission to provide Canberra and surrounds with the

• Reduce heat penetration into cabin space

• Lifetime Warranty

• Filters harmful UV rays

• Reduces glare

• Scratch resistant, dual ply film

• Enhances Vehicle Appearance

• Reduces risk of fabric and vinyl fading

home renovations, extensions and new homes.

But that’s not all, Bordeaux also can complete commercial fitouts and joinery, with its fully licensed builders in NSW and the ACT.

“We pride ourselves in achieving the highest standard for our customers in design and workmanship,” Steve says.

“We offer full trade co-ordination and have our own experienced and reliable tradesmen and expert staff to assist you in your project.

“Our custom-built, cabinet-making workshop can also build joinery items to suit your needs whether for home or office.”

Steve says Bordeaux offers obligation-free quotes, competitive prices and will work with each customer to achieve their desired outcome.

Bordeaux Constructions and Bordeaux Kitchens, 8 Aurora Place, Queanbeyan. Call 6299 4642, visit bordeauxbcm. com.au or search @BordeauxBCM on Facebook.

Jason has the right tint for a cool car

NOT only does window tinting add to a car’s aesthetic but it also reduces glare, stops the car interior from fading and gives it amazing temperature control, says Diamond Window Tints owner Jason Taylor.

And, as a dad to a one-year-old with another child on the way, Jason says it’s also about having that UV protection for the children.

“The film that we use has amazing heat rejection qualities and offers 99 per cent UV protection,” he says.

“When the sun hits a normal window it magnifies the heat and creates a hot car but with tinting it rejects the heat and doesn’t allow the heat to penetrate into the cabin, and therefore, keeps it a lot cooler.

“Our particular film is non metallic so it won’t interfere with the GPS or other wireless signals.”

But, no matter what the customer is after, Jason says his local, family business will work with them to deliver the best solution.

“With our professional and friendly team, quick vehicle turn around and great prices, we will have you back on the road in no time with a promise you will be satisfied with your experience,” he says.

Diamond Window Tints. Email info@diamondtints.com.au, call 0404 284122 or visit diamondtints.com.au

Join Deb & Dave from Weston Cruise &Travel on our Group departure on 11 July 2019

11 Day Cruise Paris > Paris

From $10,815*pp including return economy airfare (based on Balcony Suite, Category BA)

The Seine isn’t the largest river in Europe, or even France, but it may be the most renowned – and for good reason. This splendid waterway cuts through the heart of Paris, before winding its way along some of the most celebrated sites in northern France.

BRILLIANT BELCONNEN

The best people serving the hub of the north

COMPRISING

25 suburbs surrounding the Belconnen town centre and Ginninderra Lake, Belconnen is the most populated district of the ACT.

Originally farming land, Belconnen was developed in 1966, with Aranda as its first suburb.

Now, Belconnen as we know it, is a thriving hub for north Canberrans, with so much to offer residents and visitors.

New bar offers ‘unique’ nightlife option

BELCONNEN’S newest bar and club, the Boardwalk Bar and Nightclub, opened next to Lake Ginninderra in April as a sophisticated and unique destination for locals, says owner Peter Liu.

Peter, who has more than 10 years’ experience managing and DJing at a popular Canberra club, has always wanted his own bar, so when he and his wife continuously walked past an empty space on Emu Bank, they knew it’d be the perfect spot.

Silvio’s dough the secret of authentic pizzas

FOLLOWING Pizza Artigiana’s third birthday in August, it is now open for lunches from Friday to Sunday.

Located in Macquarie, Pizza Artigiana was established after its owner, Silvio Miceli, wanted to bring authentic, traditional, Italian

“We wanted to make it an up-market bar because Belconnen doesn’t have one,” he says.

“We have live music and DJs on the Friday and weekends but during the weeks it’s always low key with some jazz and blues playing,” he says.

“We’re pretty laid back and mellow during the weeks and days and then Friday and Saturday nights get a little more rowdy.

“We also stay open later than a lot of the other places so people can stay in Belconnen rather than going into the city.”

Peter says Boardwalk Bar and Nightclub has a large range of jugs and cocktails and has just introduced “shaker shots”, which is an opportunity for a group of people to share a cocktail in five shot glasses.

The Boardwalk Bar and Nightclub, 11/114 Emu Bank, Belconnen Town Centre. Call 6251 2712 or visit theboardwalkbar.com.au

After growing up in Canberra, Silvio moved to Sydney for more than a decade where he was surrounded by authentic Italian pizza choices and then, when he returned in 2011, he noticed a lack of it here.

Pizza Artigiana business partners Silvio Miceli, left, and Andrew Brown.

“When we first opened, we were probably the only authentic, traditional pizza place in Canberra,” Silvio says.

“The dough is the most important and is fermented for at least 72 hours, which creates a very light and easy-to-digest, flavoursome dough.

“So rather than travelling all the way to Italy to have a traditional and authentic experience, you can come to us in Canberra.”

And, now with its lunch time hours from Friday to Sunday, Silvio says people can experience their Neapolitan-style pizza more often, or try their new “portafoglio” or “pizza wallet”, is pizza dough stuffed with fillings which Silvio says can easily be eaten on the run like a sandwich.

Pizza Artigiana, cnr of Bowman and Wiseman Sts, Macquarie. Call 6251 3315, email artigiana@tpg.com.au or visit pizza-artigiana.com.au

Lake Ginninderra

Bookkeepers making sense of Uber issues

JOHN Scarano, of JS Bookkeeping and Accounting Services, has been asking some of his Uber-driving clients: “Is it still worthwhile?”

“We look after a few clients that drive Uber cars and over the last four years there’s been a number of tax office discussions with Uber,”

“Last year the schedules and the numbers of the drivers given are different than previously, in that it now includes GST.

“If they’re not up-to-date with the current changes they could be over-claiming GST or not transmitting enough GST to the tax office. If they don’t get proper advice the tax office always tends to do audits on not just Uber drivers but also people in the transport industry.

“There is some confusion with drivers as to what they can and can’t claim and we’re happy to assist them with questions.”

But John, who has been an accountant for more than 35 years, doesn’t just work with Uber drivers and says he particularly enjoys working with small businesses.

“I enjoy helping them start up correctly, choose the right business structure and I enjoy assisting them in deciding which accounting software they can or should use,” he says.

“And I make sure I talk at their level to make things easier.”

JS Bookkeeping and Accounting Services, Unit 2, Hawker Professional Centre, 134 Hawker Place, Hawker. Call 6255 3555.

advertising feature

School thrives on community links

SITUATED on Lhotsky Street in Charnwood, the parish school of St Thomas Aquinas West Belconnen shares its strong community feel with its surrounding suburbs, says principal Cameron Johns.

“We’re an inclusive school, open to all students and we’re all about raising students’ achievements, whether they’re academic, social or sporting,” he says.

“We have a diverse learning team and the teachers work with all students, whether they’re gifted, find learning hard or are somewhere in between.”

And, as part of St Thomas Aquinas’ “community feel”, it does its best to engage the parent community and

give them a say, too.

St Thomas Aquinas is modelled after its patron saint of the same name, who is the saint for education and learning.

This is why St Thomas Aquinas caters for a diverse range of learning needs and offers lunchtime clubs such as STEM clubs, book clubs, chess clubs and art clubs.

St Thomas Aquinas has a specialist sports teacher, music teacher and a Spanish teacher for all years.

St Thomas Aquinas Primary School, 25 Lhotsky Street, Charnwood. Call 6258 4077 or visit staquinas.act.edu.au

• Accounting

• Individual and Business income tax returns

• MYOB setup, training and support

• BAS and IAS lodgment

• Bookkeeping

• Maintain ASIC company records

After hours appointments available by arrangement. Call JOHN SCARANO – 0407 254 210 or 02

Registered Tax agent accounts@jsbookkeeping.net.au

“We’ll look after your compliance work so you can work on what you do best – your business!”

Celebrating more than 40 years of education at St Thomas Aquinas

Serving the community of West Belconnen including Charnwood, Dunlop, Macgregor, West Macgregor, Flynn, Fraser and Latham, the Parish School of St Thomas Aquinas seeks to live out our faith in response to the needs and challenges of the times. Our faith is important to us and underwrites all that we do.

At St Thomas Aquinas we will:

• Provide a stimulating and safe learning environment

• Challenge your child to be his or her best

• Cater for your child’s stage of development

• Teach values – Christian and caring attitudes

• Encourage collaborative learning & cater for different learning styles

• Make effective use of Information and Communication Technologies

• Teach Spanish Language and Culture

• Encourage leadership development

• Provide enrichment, through Sport, Music & Dance

• Provide the fullest potential for each child – spiritual, intellectual, physical and cultural

BRILLIANT BELCONNEN

Expert help with hay fever

MY Medical Practice in Charnwood has seen a surge of patients who suffer from hay fever, says assistant director Amanda Coulton.

“Seasonal allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, is quite common during this time of the year with all the different grasses and pollens more prevalent in the air,” she says.

“Hay fever may present differently in each person and some people may not even know it’s hay fever they are suffering from.

“[And] although there is no cure for hay fever, we can treat the symptoms.

“If you aren’t getting the relief you need from over-the-counter medications from your pharmacy, and symptoms are continuing, please come and see one our doctors.

“There are a variety of options our doctors are happy to discuss with you.”

College sets the pace with new, modern courses

LAKE Ginninderra College is continuing to do lots of great things but it’s just doing them better, says deputy principal Gerard Barrett.

“For example, we have new courses in physical education and outdoor education,” he says.

“The new courses emphasise things that are important now. One of the new courses is called ‘health and wellbeing’ and has a higher emphasis on the health side of things and looks into mental health as well.”

And, because Lake Ginninderra College has recognised experts in these areas, Gerard says staff have played a role in writing these courses.

But, My Medical Practice in Charnwood doesn’t just see people with hay fever and, Amanda says, they aim to take the financial burden from pensioners, families and students with their bulk-billing services.

“We’re unlike other bulk-billing practices, we pride ourselves on our customer service and putting our patients first,” she says.

My Medical Practice, 7 Charnwood Place, Charnwood. Call 6258 0006 or search @MyMedicalCharnwood on Facebook.

Amanda says there is also a website (canberrapolllen.com.au), which provides daily updates of the pollen count in the ACT.

“Our teachers are very active in playing a part in the renewal of courses,” he says.

“And generally when people have more ownership they’re more motivated to do it well.”

The college also has a range of new and updated courses in IT with courses which focus on cyber security and the science of dealing with data.

But it’s not just the teachers who get to take ownership, and Gerard says Lake Ginninderra College engages with students to find out what they want.

Sick of the big banks? Try us, says Jacob

JACOB Krog and Estelle Whitby from Bendigo Bank, at Jamison Plaza, are inviting Canberrans to try Bendigo Bank.

“Ninety per cent of Australians bank with at least one of the big four,” says Jacob, who is a mobile lender at Bendigo Bank.

“Whether it is just habit, inertia or a niggling unease about trusting their finances to a smaller organisation, it’s where they’ve ended up.”

But, Jacob says many people aren’t happy with the big four banks and few realise there is another option –a better option.

Jacob describes Bendigo Bank as a big bank that customers can feel better about.

“[It’s] a bank that’s great to deal with personally, and does great things for the community,” he says.

“It’s a bank that, in its own humble and understated way, has built not only an enviable reputation, but the fifth largest retail banking business in the country.”

Which is why Jacob and Estelle are asking the ACT to give them a go.

“We cover all of Canberra and surrounding areas and are happy to come to you so we can show you a different kind of banking,” he says.

Bendigo Bank, Shop D05 Jamison Plaza, Bowman Street, Macquarie. Call 6253 0088 or email JamisonMailbox@ bendigobank.com.au

FOLLOWING a growing demand from people wanting appointments after work hours, CARM Therapies is now staying open later to meet those needs, says

“Too many people just can’t get out of work, so we’re listening to our clients and we’re now staying open after work hours and on Saturday,” she says.

Clients who come in during the extended hours are likely to meet CARM Therapies’ new team member, Caitlin, who Emily describes as a great and caring remedial massage therapist.

“Remedial massage therapy helps with muscle tension from the stress of long work hours, increased computer-based work and helps people who are trying to fit a lot into their life, which could lead to aches and pains,” she says.

As for how often people need remedial massage therapy, Emily says that depends on the person and their reason for the remedial massage.

“We try to find a balance for the person that works for their lifestyle and what they need and want,” she says.

“Our catchphrase is: ‘Acupuncture and remedial massage for chronic pain, pregnancy and general wellbeing.’

“CARM Therapies is about treating the person holistically, not just looking at the problems, but the person as a whole.”

6278

ClubsACT / Clubs & Community Awards

Debut awards bring out the best about clubs

CLUBS from across the ACT have been recognised for outstanding contributions made to their local communities in the first Clubs & Community Awards.

Eleven award winners and one highly commended winner were chosen from eight categories by a distinguished judging panel consisting of the Member for Canberra, Gai Brodtmann; philanthropist Paul Walshe and Menslink chief executive, Martin Fisk.

ClubsACT CEO, Gwyn Rees said: “This is the first time these awards have been held here in the ACT.

“The goal is to take time to note the many things our local clubs do every day, often quietly without wanting or expecting recognition, to support our community.

“While we talk a lot about the community contributions valued at more than $30 million that clubs make, what they do for our community is so much wider than this.

“We have seen clubs promote inclusion and diversity, support amateur sport for all ages, and generally bring our community together in a positive way.

“The Clubs & Community Awards are all about recognising initiatives which encapsulate the spirit and ethos of the entire club industry.”

ClubsACT president Kim Marshall chose to make the President’s Award to ACT Policing.

“Early this year, our clubs fell victim to a series of robberies, over 20 in total,” Mrs Marshall said.

“During this harrowing period, ACT Police kept in constant contact with ClubsACT and clubs. The two organisations worked closely in collecting information about persons of interest and worked diligently to ensure our community remains a safe one.

“The success of the co-operative behaviour between our clubs and ACT police is another great example of how clubs contribute to their community.”

ART & CULTURE AWARD

Cheers for the Oktoberfest!

The small-club winner of the Art & Culture Award was Harmonie German Club for its submission “German Culture and Oktoberfest!”.

This award recognises club achieve ments in delivering arts and cultural initiatives in the community – including the presentation of literature, multimedia, film, visual and performing arts and public programming including festivals and events.

The Harmonie German Club promotes and celebrates German life and is active in the local community promoting cultural events including the big one: Oktoberfest!

Supporting the School of Music

The ACT’s larger clubs shared some fantastic submissions in the Arts & Culture category, but the big-club winner was Eastlake Group for its submission “Friends of the School of Music”.

Eastlake has been a proud supporter of the Friends of the School of Music, sponsoring an outreach program to promote the participation in and education of music for young performers.

This award recognises outstanding dedication to working with com munity organisations or disadvan taged groups – including social disadvantage, aged care, special needs and indigenous programs.

The judges report an “amazing” response from clubs in this category and say it was heartwarming to see the profound contributions in these areas. It was a very close call between the scores of the judges and so they decided to present a highly commended award to a club whose contributions in this category have been outstanding.

The winner of the Disability, Welfare and Social Inclusion Award was for its submission “Karinya House“.

The club has put its support behind Karinya House, naming it as its inaugural community key partner in August, 2017.

The community-based, not-forprofit organisation provides sup ported accommodation, transitional housing, outreach, support groups and casework services to pregnant and parenting women and their families who are in crisis.

The Emergency Support Award was given to for its submission “St John’s Care”.

The Emergency Support Award recognises leadership and resourcefulness of clubs in times of community need, including bushfires, floods and other major disasters and disaster recovery.

Earlier this year, inspired by a news item and a call-out from ClubsACT, the Eastlake Group jumped into action to support St John’s Care upon hearing their stock levels had reached critical levels, meaning they were unable to provide emergency assistance to those in need in the Canberra community.

Eastlake Group immediately launched a social media campaign and engaged Canberra FM to promote drop-off points for goods at Eastlake’s venues.

In a matter of a couple of days Eastlake, with support of their patrons and staff, were able to provide St John’s Care with two months worth of groceries.

Volunteers from the Eastlake and Canberra demons also stacked the shelves at St John’s Care.

The partnership will see the club provide Karinya House with up to $150,000 in cash and in-kind support each year. Over the past 17 years, the club has donated $337,000 to assisting Karinya House to continue the work it does in the community.

The highly commended award

for the Disability, Welfare and Social Inclusion Award went to the Vikings Group for its “Charity of the Year” program.

The group received a perfect score from one of the judges for its submission.

Vikings Group selects a community partner for its “Charity of the

Year” program, which it supports for one whole year. Last year, the Vikings Group raised $63,000 for OzHarvest Canberra through fundraising and events, including their OzHarvest Dollar Ball event. This year, their charity of the year is Marymead and they are aiming to raise $100,000.

ClubsACT / Clubs & Community Awards

A helping hand with harm minimisation

The Health & Wellbeing Award recognises approaches to sustain and build on improvements in quality health and wellbeing in the community – including mental health, problem gambling research or clinical support.

The prize was awarded to Vikings Group for its submission for the “Play Within Your Limits” program, which aims to address problem gambling issues through the implementation of numerous strategies and procedures in venues.

Vikings Group has taken harm minimisation measures that go above what is legislatively required. The holistic program focuses on mental health and wellbeing for the community, members and staff and provides access to support services.

Helping the long-term unemployed

The judges say the submissions were heartwarming and agreed they were all winners.

Reg is on a roll with bowls

The second winner of the Heart of the Community Award is Reg Bates, who was nominated by the Reg has been secretary of the Tuggeranong Vikings lawn bowls club for the past 15 years as well as the key administra tion officer throughout that time. He provided a pivotal link between members, the club executive committee and outside organisations, including Bowls ACT, Bowls Australia and the Vikings Group.

The position of secretary is critical to the successful manage ment of any club and Reg’s devotion over the past 15 years, often up to 20 hours a week, five to six days a week, has seen the club rise from its fledgling years to become one of the preeminent organisations under the Jurisdiction of Bowls ACT.

The Education Award recognises educational and vocational advances that enhance the lives of those living in the community.

The winner of the Education Award is Vikings Group for its submission for the “Path Program”. As part of the Vikings Group’s ongoing commitment to being an employer of opportunity, it participated in a government pilot program, the Path Program, aimed at reducing the number of long-term, unemployed youths. Vikings Group has now undergone two rounds of the program and has given 15 young people the opportunity of long-term employment across the Vikings’ four clubs or other hospitality operations.

The Heart of the Community Award recognises individuals and groups who are the “unsung heroes” in a club or in the broader community and who are an inspiration to those around them.

The first winners for the Heart of the Community Award are Wally and Erika Merkel, who were nominated by the Harmonie German Club for embodying the core values of the club – promoting and continuing the contribution of Canberra’s German heritage and culture, and providing a welcoming and

HARMONIE GERMAN CLUB

Clubs & Community Awards

Heart of the Community Award – WINNER

Wally and Erika Merkel embody the core values of the club – including almost 40 years of volunteering at Oktoberfest, making cakes and gateaux, and single handedly barbecuing more than 100,000 wursts!

Art & Culture Award – WINNER

For the celebration of German life and being active in the local community promoting cultural events including Oktoberfest.

committee on six separate occasions. Erika was most recently elected to the committee in 2018, replacing Wally.

As proud Germans, they have endeavoured to celebrate their culture with almost 40 years of volunteering at Oktoberfest, making cakes and gateaux, and singlehandedly barbecuing more than 100,000 wursts.

Now in their 70s and 80s, Wally and Erika show no signs of slowing down. Their embodiment of goodness means that the core values of the Harmonie German club will continue for generations while always honouring the history that the Merkels have created together.

Reg has often been the first point of contact for people interested in the club who need information or details about its activities.

In honour of the hard work and endless hours Reg has devoted to the club, both on the greens and administratively, the club bestowed a life membership of the club in 2012.

One of the community organisations that Reg is passionate about is Kids in Care over Christmas. Reg single-handedly took this appeal on board and worked hard to ensure that the Vikings Group knew about the cause and got involved by setting up Christmas trees at Town Centre Vikings for members to donate prizes to children over Christmas.

In June, Reg decided made the decision to step down from his secretarial role (but is still involved as a committee member) and the Vikings Group believed it was timely to recognise Reg Bates as one of the hearts of its community.

Thousands

The judges report a “fantastic” response from the clubs for this category. From our large club groups, to smaller clubs, the range of initiatives and support provided to amateur sport is immense.

The Amateur Sport Award by a large club was won by the Vikings Group for its “Affiliate Club Program” in which it supports 51 affiliated clubs in the Tuggeranong Valley through a vast array of programs and resources. More than 7000 athletes in the Tuggeranong Valley belong to a Vikings Group affiliate club.

The Vikings Group offers financial support through grant funding, representative grants and event involvement. In the spirit of community, they provide in-kind support to their affiliated clubs through measures that are instrumental in keeping the affiliates viable and healthy as they are predominantly volunteer-based.

Vikings Group provides about $2 million a year in grants, infrastructure and other support to Tuggeranong’s sporting and community-based clubs.

Dinner as one of four inaugural Live Your Dreams Young Leaders Program recipients introduced at the club last year.

The support of Amateur Sport Award by a small club went to the RUC at Turner. In a short period, the RUC has seen local rugby union and lawn bowls, both competitive and social, flourish in the ACT and have created a financial base for 27 of Canberra’s sporting and recreational clubs.

And for Ryan Davies, the operations manager at Stellar’s Anytime Fitness gym, the program provided the opportunity to fulfil his dream of cycling through the French Alps. This year five new winners will share the $20,000 to live their dream.

Club

in and enjoy daily food and drink specials in the friendliest club in town.

• Function rooms available

• Events catered for any occasion

• Happy Hour Monday-Friday 5pm-8pm

• Live Music Friday 5pm-8pm

• Daily lunch specials

CLUBS & COMMUNITY AWARDS 2018

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

When the dummy comes to life

DOUGAL MACDONALD

Killer Queenie, the gorgeous dominatrix

COVER STORY

By Helen Musa

WHEN Queenie van de Zandt hits the spotlight at the AIS Arena next week in the Queen musical “We Will Rock You”, she’ll be playing to a home crowd.

For van de Zandt’s earliest theatrical triumphs were in Canberra and there is no reason to think this will be any different, especially since she gets to play the archvillainess, Killer Queen – and who doesn’t love a wicked woman?

“I’m going to look fabulous – I’ll be a gorgeous dominatrix,” she tells “CityNews” after rushing in from a morning costume call and a dash back to her dad’s house in Bonython to ensure that 18-month-old daughter Billie has an afternoon nap.

Van de Zandt has been engaged by people she knows well, joining another former Canberran, “Kinky Boots” star Toby Francis as Galileo and Blue-Mountains-girl-turnedmusical star Erin Clare as Scaramouche, along with local theatricals Max Gambale, David Cannell, Dave Smith and Samantha Marceddo.

“We Will Rock You – The Arena Spectacular” is the brainchild of PeeWee Productions

Presented by

– lighting/sound guru Chris Neal, director Stephen Pike, musical director Ian McLean and publicist Coralie Wood – who hope to repeat the success of their 2015 arena production “Jesus Christ Superstar” by drawing in people to whom Queen and its late lead singer Freddie Mercury are nothing less than deities.

This time well-known Canberra director Kelda McManus will be at the helm.

Written by Ben Elton, and featuring more than 20 Queen songs, the show will feature a band of Canberra’s professional rock musicians, spectacular lighting, video content from the original UK production on LED screens, mammoth sound production and a multi-dimensional set.

As befits a dominatrix, van de Zandt speaks with authority on the art of acting. She’s had her own acting school, AMTA, for years and has strong ideas on how to make her Killer Queen believable, saying: “I approach characters from their voices, I ask how do they speak, and then I’ll say – that’s the voice.”

Even if Ben Elton’s book is flimsy – “just a wonderful, kooky way to string together a lot of Queen numbers,” she says. “It’s tongue-incheek enough not to make you groan at the loose links.”

Killer Queen, she explains, is the CEO/ dictator of a global consortium running the planet. Originally a video character, she needs to be made real.

Queenie van de Zandt… “It must be remembered that evil people don’t know they’re evil.”

She was cast in the Canberra Theatre production of “Annie” with Terence Clarke directing. His collaborator, the playwright Nick Enright, came to see the show, noticed her and intervened to get her two auditions which saw her firmly on stage in Sydney. She would return to Canberra on a number of occasions to perform at The Street Theatre, but all the while she was writing.

Actor/writer Tony Taylor engaged her to cowrite a Christmas revue, “Jingle Belrose” at Glen Street Theatre in northern Sydney, and while working with him, her now-notorious stage persona, the inept Dutch musical therapist, “Jan van de Stool”, was born. “Jan” would go on to co-host the 2016 Helpmann Awards.

She’s lived in Sydney, Brisbane, Sydney and Brisbane and now Melbourne, where she moved four years ago to play the role of Cassandra in “King Kong: the Musical” and where she’s also played the witch in Victorian Opera’s “Into the Woods”.

“It must be remembered that evil people don’t know they’re evil – she thinks she is the saviour of the planet.”

But she’s not perfect and Killer Queen has become a glutton, a good excuse to sing the Queen number, “Fat Bottomed Girls”.

Her theatrical credentials are impeccable. In Grade 2 she wrote a play that won a competition. Then at Daramalan College she

Bronwyn Mulcahy were inveigled into doing an Andrew Lloyd Webber show at the School of Arts Cafe in Queanbeyan – other shows followed, along with a stint at Stephen Pike’s Tarzan’s theatre restaurant and a chorus part in “Cabaret” at Rep.

But now she’s living out her greatest role of all. For after years of unsuccessful IVF, her halfsister donated an egg and, with her Victorian farmer partner Johnny, she has given birth to Billie – she’s a proud, excited mum.

And that’s better than playing either the Wicked Witch or the Killer Queen.

“We Will Rock You – The Arena Spectacular”, AIS Arena, November 7-10, bookings to premier.ticketek.com.au

A YOUNG MAN’S LIFE HANGS IN THE BALANCE AS 12 STRANGERS DELIBERATE ON HIS ULTIMATE FATE.

At first glance the underprivileged boy appears guilty of murdering his father in cold blood. The evidence seems to suggest so but questions of prejudice, family, and class warfare threaten to tear their fragile deliberations apart. 11 men are ready to convict and send him to the electric chair. Only one man has doubts. With it’s unique presentation in the round, the audience will be in the jury room, experiencing every moment of the story up until the nail-biting finish.

12 Angry Men is a scintillating blend of raw emotion and high stakes where individual life stories are gradually revealed.

“ 12 Angry Men is a scintillating blend of raw emotion and high stakes where individual life stories are gradually revealed.

“

Twelve Angry Men is more relevant than ever in the age of Trump!

/ collected works 2019

Of old friends and new works

By Helen Musa

CANBERRA Theatre Centre’s “Collected Works” season holds few surprises save for the shining exception of its new venture, “Etcetera” – a collection of independent and alternative works yet to be unveiled.

However, we do know that actor Kate Mulvany will be here as part of that in “Prima Facie”, a one-hander that exposes the shortcomings of a patriarchal justice system. The idea is that management can pick up independent shows as they come to light, bulking the list up to an impressive 11 shows.

As well, add-on concerts are offered to subscribers for shows by American folk singer-songwriter Arlo Guthrie and Aussie soprano Nicole Car with baritone-husband Etienne Dupuis.

An exciting piece of theatre will be seen in Belvoir’s 2017 sleeper hit, “Barbara and the Camp Dogs”, beginning as a rock gig with a real band, but turning more serious as musos Barbara and her cousin René, played by Ursula Yovich and Elaine Crombie, embark on a pilgrimage back home to country.

“Black Comedy” writer Nakkiah Lui’s latest play, “How to Rule the World”, is likely to have audiences rolling in the aisles as the old racist joke, “An Aboriginal, an Asian and an Islander walk into a bar,” morphs into a stinging satire on Australian politics.

The Melbourne Theatre Company will back for the first time since 2012 with a commercially enticing adaptation of Tom Stoppard

ARTS IN THE CITY

No dread in the day of the dead

By Helen Musa

THE astonishing tradition of “Dia De Muertos” (Day of the Dead) will be celebrated with nine hours of non-stop music and cultural performances, and a traditional “Ofrenda” (altar), the funds from which will go to Playing For Change’s Mexican Baja musical arts initiative in Tijuana, Mexico. At Ainslie Arts Centre, 2pm-11pm, Saturday, November 10, with an after-party at Smith’s Alternative. All welcome.

THE Australian Chamber Orchestra plans to finish 2018 with a bang in an all-Beethoven program featuring artistic director Richard Tognetti performing the spectacular “Violin Concerto”, followed by the “Fifth Symphony”, for which ACO will triple in size to a 50-piece ensemble. At Llewellyn Hall, 8pm, Saturday, November 10. Book at aco.com.au

QUEANBEYAN Players will take a sentimental journey when it stages “Godspell”, which features a parade of well-known songs such as “Day by Day” and “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord”. At The Q, November 1-11. Book at theq.net.au or 6285 6290.

AUSTRAL Harmony hosts its annual Bach Festival, celebrating the artistry of Johann Sebastian Bach and friends in the Chapel of the Annunciation, Canberra Girls’ Grammar School, Deakin, 10am-5pm, Saturday, November 10. Book at trybooking.com

THE 29th Jewish International Film Festival will screen a diverse selection of films from Australia and around the world, including “87 Children” set in Nazi-

from the Wharf, Sydney Theatre Company, Bell Shakespeare, Belvoir, State Theatre Company SA as well as Bangarra Dance Theatre celebrating its 30th birthday and Sydney Dance Company marking its 50th.

But there are some twists to the successful formula.

We’ll get a double dose of Jonathan Biggins as he bookends the year with his Paul Keating bio-piece, “The Gospel According to Paul” in March and “The Wharf Revue”, which he co-wrote, in November – the latter will propose that the West is crumbling and the world is now run by morons with funny hair.

and Marc Norman’s movie script “Shakespeare in Love” by Lee Hall, produced in association with Disney Theatrical Productions – Simon Phillips directs.

Describing the 2019 season as “a balance of timeless classics and hot-off-the-press new work,” programming manager at the theatre centre, Gill Hugonnet, has clearly aimed for popularity among subscribers with appearances

John Bell is long gone from Bell Shakespeare, but he’ll be back, now directed by present-day artistic director Peter Evans in Molière’s “The Miser”, one of the great comedies about human greed. The company will later return in an actual Shakespeare piece, “Much Ado About Nothing”, directed by James Evans.

Four actors will perform 139 roles in 100 minutes in “The 39 Steps”, based on the old Hitchcock movie and seen last year at Rep, in 2013 at The Q and in 2009 here at The Playhouse – this will be the State Theatre Company of SA’s 2016 sellout production. Hugonnet knows a hit when she sees one.

munity returns to his rock ‘n’ roll past to help pay for his daughter’s medical treatment. At Dendy Cinemas, November 1-11. Book at dendy.com.au

“REMEMBRANCE… Celebrated” is a concert marking the centenary of the end of World War I. Violist Robert Harris will join Canberra pianist Aaron Chew to perform music by composers who served in and survived that war. The program will include Fritz Kreisler’s Liebesleid and “Toy Soldier’s March” and Ravel’s “Pavane for a Dead Princess”. At Wesley Uniting Church, Forrest, 12.40pm1.20pm, Wednesday, November 7. No bookings required.

IN honour of the Design Canberra Festival, veteran glass artists Peter Minson and Patricia Parker will show collaborative works at the Studio Gallery, 57 Warragamba Avenue, Duffy, November 1-18.

CLARINETTIST Eloise Fisher, flautist Vernon Hill and pianists Edward and Stephanie Neeman will appear with aspiring young student musicians in a benefit concert to support Ainslie School’s music program. At Ainslie Arts Centre, Donaldson Street, Braddon, 6pm, Friday, November 9. Book at eventbrite.com.au

Centre, November 10.

Canberra Photographic Collectors Society

Spring Fiesta - Photographic Market Day

Sunday 4th November • 10.30am to 1.30pm

Canberra Irish Club, 6 Parkinson St, Weston ACT

There will be antique and collectible cameras, usable film  & digital cameras, photographic accessories and books.

Buy

Sell

Swap • Entry and Parking Free

For further details contact Ray on 6258 8399

FOR SALE

Popular Manuka Thai Restaurant

Located in busy Manuka Village, this popular Thai restaurant currently operates 6 days per week with high passing foot traffic, seating for 77 plus outdoor dining, and extensive bar area. Currently for sale due to owners retiring.

For more information and financials, call Anne on 0424 166 807 or 6295 0426

When the dummy comes to life

By Dougal MACDONALD

“Goosebumps: Haunted Halloween” (PG)

OF fiction writer Robert L Stine’s 15 titles filmed as feature movies or TV series, “Haunted Halloween” is the second film under the “Goosebumps” banner.

In it, Stine plays the principal of the school where Sonny (Jeremy Ray Taylor) and Sam (Caleel Harris) are the target of older boys’ taunts and threats of violence. And Jack Black plays RL Stine.

Sonny and Sam have formed a junk-removal business. In a deserted, old house, they find the manuscript of an unpublished RL Stine book and a ventriloquist’s dummy. The book provides the boys with the means of bringing Slappy the dummy to life and the fun begins.

This movie for kids aged from about eight to 88 presses the right buttons for humour, scariness, inventiveness, zaniness. And the American way of celebrating All Hallows Eve, a festival at which many countries with Celtic origins remember the dead. I rather like Slappy the dummy. He’s essentially benevolent although he can show a mean streak. The closing credits end with Slappy

suggesting he’ll be back. There can be worse things to look forward to. At all cinemas

“Halloween” (MA)

FORTY years ago, writer/director John Carpenter scared filmgoers big-time when he introduced serial-killing psychopath Michael Myers. In this sequel, writer/director David Gordon Green goes back to see how Michael is getting on in the high-security institution where he has spent the years saying nothing and spending his exercise hours chained to a concrete block in an open yard.

Memories of Michael remain strong in the mind of Laurie whose 15-year-old daughter he murdered under the cover of Halloween festivities. In both original and sequel Jamie Lee Curtis plays Laurie, her first feature role after a brief career in TV series, propelling her into a distinguished career.

Laurie still fears that while

Michael remains alive, she is at risk of him escaping and coming to kill her. Living alone in a rural house built along fortress principles, she does regular target practice with a collection of guns.

Guns, cooks’ knives, hammers, that’s what this sequel is about, with a considerable body count, a credible narrative structure, powerful tensions, dreadful murders following scary stalkings. Mercifully, there’s but scant time for the film to visit All Hallows Eve as practised in the US and, perhaps alas, also nowadays in this country.

At all cinemas

“Beautiful Boy” (MA)

MANY words have been spoken and recorded recounting parents’ anguish when substance abuses beset their offspring and blight the lives of families.

Among them are the books “Beautiful Boy: A Father’s Journey Through His Son’s Addiction” by David Sheff and “Tweak: Growing Up on Methamphetamines” by his son Nic. These provide powerful source material for this film by Belgian director and co-writer (with Australian Luke Davies) Felix Van Groeningen about the agonies of a loved son’s descent into substance abuse. It’s a

cautionary tale charting Nic’s ride along a very rough path. Parents whose children have avoided becoming addicted to any substance may, should and probably do count themselves fortunate. Books about addiction mostly view the condition from the outside. Nic (Timothée Chalamet) clean for eight years, has written an inside view. What got Nic was methamphetamine, the central nervous system stimulant mainly used as a recreational drug, less commonly as a second-line treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and obesity. In the jargon of addiction, ice. The film is unremitting in its observation of family. David and Nic’s mother Vicki (Amy Ryan) divorced when Nic was small; David (Steve Carell) has since married Karen (Maura Tierney) who has borne two children. David’s determination to rescue Nic from addiction’s blight dominates the film. We realise that David is following a path less likely to succeed. Only Nic can lift himself out of the morass.

In the catalogue of message films, “Beautiful Boy” stands out for its origins and its trio of principal performances. With no defined target audience, it’s a film for all to experience and file under “cautionary tales”.

At Palace Electric, Dendy and Capitol 6

DINING / intra, campbell Soothing taste of fusion food

By Wendy JOHNSON

THE menu is tiny. The décor sleek and minimalist. The food Japanese fusion.

If anything, Intra, a new eatery in Campbell, is aiming for a niche spot in the capital’s super-crowded hospitality scene.

The poke bowl ($19) was smashing and crafted as a top-notch poke should be (many establishments just toss a bunch of ingredients together, without a real understanding of what this dish is truly meant to be).

The sashimi-grade fish – so delicate – just melted in the mouth. The tang of pickle was delightful, the chinks of tofu silky, all ingredients perfectly balanced. And the poached egg on top was cooked so it was soft and runny, but not overly so. We agreed we could hit Intra every day for a hit of that poke.

We were surprised to see a bacon and egg roll on the menu ($16) but it was the best we’ve ever had in this town. This was a chashu roll with crunchy shallots and Japanese chilli pepper. Absolutely tantalising for the tastebuds. We shared a side of Pialligo Estate bacon (quality doesn’t get better than that).

Other items on the menu, showcasing Japanese fusion flare, are the tofu bagel with pickled zucchini and Yuzu Jerk sauce ($12), a salmon bagel with cucumber, chilli and Kewpie sour cream ($14) and a kimchi jaffle ($12). Those not keen on the Japanese influence can enjoy simple fruit toast with cinnamon butter ($8) or granola with poached pear and seasonal fruit ($12).

The coffee was beautiful and served in lovely cups with no handles, perfect for wrapping both hands right around them. The barista created a wonderful-looking (and wonderful-tasting) latte and cappuccino, at just the right temperature.

Intra serves quality Kuura tea, grown in exceptional

We loved the cool, calming décor, designed to be simple, striking and soothing. And that brings us to the music. It was bizarre for the personality of the place, at least it certainly seemed so to us. It was super loud and, with little to absorb the sound, bounced all over the place. It was clubby and heavy, especially at breakfast. It certainly seemed to be enjoyed by staff but it was doing our heads in so we left without second coffees. We were impressed by many features of the décor, including the distressed concrete walls, metal benches (with powerpoints for phones and computers) and stunning lights.

Our only other observation was the service. Even though we were the only ones in the place for most of our visit, no-one popped by to enquire if we were enjoying our food. One person was occupied with cleaning with a squirt bottle and another reading a mag behind the counter.

Intra, 30/12 Provan Street, Campbell. Tuesday-Friday, 7am-3.30pm; Saturday-Sunday, 8am-3pm.

PUZZLES PAGE

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

Uranus reverses back into your sign, from Tuesday until March 6. Expect some disruptions over the next few months. The more you embrace change, the less unsettled you’ll feel. Wednesday night will be intense, as the New Moon lights up your intimacy zone. And with Jupiter transiting into your travel zone on Thursday, foreign shores beckon over the next 13 months. So start planning your itinerary now. It’s also important to keep up-to-date with your international contacts.

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 21)

With Uranus shifting back into your soul zone until March 6, it’s time to reflect on (and re-adjust to) an important change that has happened in your life this year. Then prosperity planet Jupiter visits your ‘money-from-others’ zone (from Thursday until December 2019). So – sometime over the next 13 months – you could benefit from an inheritance, loan, divorce settlement, insurance claim, bumper tax return or superannuation pay-out. Just make sure you spend any windfall wisely.

GEMINI (May 22 – June 21)

Your work and social circle will experience some changes over the next few months, as Uranus shakes up your ‘friends and networking’ zone. You could also become involved with a progressive group or a humanitarian organisation. And with Jupiter jumping into your partnership zone on Thursday, do your best to be more tolerant and generous towards loved ones over the next 13 months. Plus try to view a troubled relationship from a more positive and philosophical perspective.

CANCER (June 22 – July 23)

Prepare for a radical detour in your career or life direction over the next few months. You’ll find the more experimental and progressive you are, the more stimulating and exciting the changes will be. Then Jupiter jumps into your wellbeing zone on Thursday, which is good news for your physical health and emotional wellbeing over the next 13 months. There’s one proviso though… don’t hibernate in your Crab cave. You must keep your mind stimulated and your body moving!

LEO (July 24 – Aug 23)

Areas involving international contacts, travel or education are set for some unexpected detours as Uranus reverses back into your adventure zone. Leos who are versatile and adaptable will navigate these changes well. Between Thursday and December 2019 (courtesy of expansive Jupiter) many talented Lions will take up a sport or hobby, start a hot romance, go on a fabulous holiday or welcome a new addition to the family. Creative projects and artistic inspiration are also favoured.

VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sept 23)

Over the next few months, expect changes involving sexuality, intimacy, joint finances or shared resources. You’ll find the more adaptable you are, the happier you’ll be. Wednesday night’s New Moon signals a fresh start involving social media or local community connections. And Jupiter is set to expand your domestic horizons. Over the coming year, you could buy or sell real estate, move house, get a new housemate or renovate your present place so you have more space.

LIBRA (Sept 24 – Oct 23)

An important partnership (whether of the romantic, platonic or work variety) will be reinvented over the next few months. If you don’t enthusiastically embrace Uranus’s call for change, then you’re in for a rocky relationship ride! Wednesday night’s New Moon signals a fresh start involving finances. And your online presence could really take off over the next 13 months, as Jupiter blesses media and communication. So, make sure you have plenty of topical and interesting things to say.

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22)

Your life will be shaken and stirred over the next few months, as Uranus reverses through your daily routine zone. The more set in your ways you are, the more difficult the disruptions will be. Wednesday night’s New Moon stimulates your sign, which will help you to see the world with a fresh pair of eyes. Then lucky Jupiter travels through your money zone (from Thursday until December 2019). Prepare to capitalise on the fortuitous financial opportunities that come your way.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21)

When it comes to a child, teenager, lover or close friend, expect a shock or surprise over the next few months. You’ll find the more flexible and unflappable you are, the less chaotic the changes will be. Then lucky Jupiter (your ruling planet) moves through your sign until December 2019. Which only happens once every 12 years. So, make sure you capitalise on the fiery energy boost and good fortune it provides. Confidence is the rocket fuel that can really take you places!

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20)

Expect family changes, additions, surprises or separations over the next few months, as Uranus revs up your home zone. A domestic matter from earlier in the year could also resurface. You’ll certainly begin to see a relative in a startling new light! Wednesday night’s New Moon is a fabulous time to set goals for the coming year. You could also take up yoga, meditation or some sort of metaphysical study over the next 13 months, as Jupiter broadens your spiritual perspective.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19)

In areas involving study, education, neighbours or your local community, expect the unexpected over the next few months. Your best laid plans will come unstuck, as you ride a wave of unsettling but stimulating changes. Thursday onwards is the perfect time to make plans for the future, as long as they are big and bold and adaptable. Expansive Jupiter encourages you to envision and manifest ambitious dreams and creative schemes. Adventurous Aquarians will go for gold!

PISCES (Feb 20 – Mar 20)

Prepare for some financial ups and downs over the next few months, as unpredictable Uranus reverses through your money zone. So – when cash is coming in – put extra aside to tide you over when times are tight. Then Jupiter (planet of good fortune) moves into your career zone on Thursday. Which bodes well for a promotion, big new job or lucky professional break coming your way over the next 13 months. For some Pisceans, a volunteer position promises much satisfaction.

Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2018

(8) 9 Which former silver coin was worth two shillings? (6) 10 Who was Popeye's lady friend? (5,3)

Name an atoll in the Marshall Islands. (6) 12 Name the Australian bantamweight boxing world champion in 1968, Lionel ... (4)

13 What is an alternative term for a termagant? (5)

16 Who was the twin brother of Romulus? (5)

19 Name a town and shire, north of Canberra. (4)

21 Which number does the symbol XX represent? (6)

22 What is the chronic inability to sleep? (8)

23 To have in mind, is to do what? (6)

24 From which ornamental bottle is wine served at the table? (8)

25 Which Tuesday is known as Pancake Day? (6)

Down

2 Which English explorer was a favourite of Queen Elizabeth Sir Walter ...? (7)

3 Name a short rifle, for cavalry use. (7)

4 Name a French impressionist painter, Pierre Auguste ... (6)

5 What is the keyboard of a musical instrument? (7)

6 What is a word having nearly the same meaning as another in the language? (7)

7 Name the pendulous folds of skin under the throats of cattle. (7)

13 Which VFL team won the premiership in 1966? (2,5)

14 To plunder or pillage, is to do what? (7)

15 Near which NSW Central Coast town is the Reptile park? (7)

17 What is another term for a voter? (7)

18 Name a late British actor, director, and dramatist of stage and film, Peter ... (7)

20 What are flights of steps that lead from one storey to another? (6)

SHOPPING WITH

TUCKED into the side of one of Manuka’s iconic heritage buildings, just across the road from some of the precinct’s best cafes, I was met with a warm smile from husband-and-wife jewellery team, Stella and James Oh.

James and Stella moved to Canberra from Japan in 2013.

James has 35 years experience as a Master Jeweller, having trained in Korea and starting Clover in Japan many years ago.

Stella tells me that their daughter’s studies at ANU brought them to Canberra and they moved their business here to be together as a family.

James is busily working in the studio as Stella shows me some of their dazzling signature pieces, all created by James. Stunning gemstones in unique ring settings, many of them paired with a matching necklace are a speciality of Clover.

They have a wide range of engagement rings, wedding bands as well as special occasion pendants and earrings.

I am particularly drawn to their platinum set, diamond and sapphire ring in the shape of a peacock as well as the beautiful diamond, flower-shaped ring, both designed and crafted by James.

Stella says that they pride themselves on repairing and remaking jewellery with a very short turnaround time, sometimes while clients wait. Her comment reminds me that my favourite necklace needs repairing so I pull it out of my purse where it has been for the past two months for safe keeping.

James fixes it while I wander around the shop, thinking what items my Christmas list might feature this year!

“We have had customers come to see us, in a panic that they need wedding bands before they travel overseas for their wedding, fearing that they have left it all too late,” says Stella.

“We were able to help them in one day, I even drove their rings to them as their bus was leaving to go to Sydney for their trip.

“The customers were very happy.”

Clover Master Jewellers, 2/16 Bougainville Street, Griffith. Call 6295 8545.

By Cedric BRYANT

WISTERIA is in all its glory in some places and, in others, coming to the end of its flowering period with its almost-overwhelming fragrance.

There are two main varieties of wisteria, W. sinensis (native to China) and W. floribunda (Japan).

According to Dr. Peter Valder, in “Garden Plants of China”, Japanese wisteria is rarely grown in China and vice versa.

W. sinensis was first sent to England from Guangzhou in 1816. Wisteria had been cultivated in China for at least 1500 years. The genus was not given its western botanical name until 1818 by Thomas Nuttall honouring Caspar Wistar (1761-1818), a famed American physician.

Wisteria is a rampant, twining climber and can quickly reach to the top branches of the largest tree (as illustrated here). However, it can be kept under control, although it’s not a plant for small gardens. If you intend to grow it over a pergola this needs to be very strong. Preferably constructed of galvanised metal piping or substantial-size, treated, pine logs bolted together, not nailed. It flowers more profusely if pruned in the traditional way of twice a year. Summer pruning after flowering usually takes place in January, cutting back the whippy side shoots to within 30cm of the older wood.

Reducing the growth allows the sun to penetrate and ripen the wood on which next year’s flowers will form. In mid-winter, June/

the faint hearted, the reward is an amazing floral display the following season.

WHEN “Gardens on the Edge” (Murdoch Books, $59.99) landed on my desk for review my immediate thought was: “Not another coffee table book”. Then, as I started to thumb through the pages, I realised it was anything but and read it from cover to cover. The book describes stories of the early Australian settlers of the 19th and early 20th century with their wealth riding on the sheep’s back. During drought and recession, many settlers lost everything.

Substantial stone and timber homesteads were abandoned as many settlers walked off the land. Only now is the heritage value of many of

their former glory.

Eighteen quintessentially Australian town and country properties are described by author Christine Reid in detail. The excellent photos are by Simon Griffiths.

Jottings...

• Afraid to prune daphnes?

Don’t be; now they’ve finished flowering a light trim will work wonders for more flowers next year. Illustrated is Daphne collina.

• To encourage more flowers from chrysanthemums, reduce the height by 50 per cent any time now. Follow this up with another 50 per cent chop in about mid to the end of January. This gives a compact plant with more flowers and is equally applicable for michaelmas daisies and dahlias.