CityNews 181115

What a mess, time for a new planning minister

PAUL COSTIGAN

Unlovely Billy gets a biography

DANIELLE NOHRA

Power to the people… at last

MICHAEL MOORE

ANALYSIS / suburban land agency

Major failings mar land agency’s first year

THE 2017-18 annual report of the Suburban Land Agency (SLA) reveals that none of its targets for affordable housing, public housing or community housing have been met.

The failure to meet these targets is the more egregious having regard to how small and inadequate they were in the first place.

The targets were described in March by Prof Peter Phibbs, of the Housing and Urban Research Institute at the University of Sydney, as “so small they’re almost insignificant”.

Prof Phibbs said: “It strikes me the government isn’t really doing the job. I’m surprised they aren’t doing more… you’ve got a supposedly progressive Labor government, one that controls the land supply lever and it’s not using it.”

He went on to note the high landsales profit margins being achieved by the ACT government.

He said: “If they’re simply taking the revenue from land sales to run various parts of the government, then to me it looks like the government is part of the problem.”

Despite Prof Phibbs’ derisory dismissal of the affordable housing targets as so small they’re insignificant, the government fell well short of meeting them.

The Suburban Land Agency does not, because of the decision of the government to strip it of $35.5 million more than it had budgeted for, hold enough liquid assets to meet all its current liabilities.

The target for affordable housing was 353 but only 288 sites were released or 19 per cent short of target; the target for community housing sites was 34 but only 20 were released or 41 per cent short of target; and 113 public housing sites against a target of 143 were released which is a shortfall of 21 per cent.

The SLA missed almost all of its financial targets by significant amounts. Total income was $397.9 million, almost $200 million down on the original budget of $596.5 million, or just two thirds of the original budget.

The targeted dividend to government was missed by more than $80 million, delivering $161.3 million against the original budget of $242.6 million. In addition to the dividend, the territory Budget also receives a range of other payments, for example, for the land transferred to the SLA, as well as payments of payroll tax, stamp duty and National Tax Equivalent. Therefore, altogether the ordinary return to government

was $248.7 million against a budget of $364 million meaning there was a shortfall of $115 million.

What is particularly interesting is that the government made up in part for the shortfall in ordinary returns by increasing the capital distribution required of the SLA from a budgeted $39.5 million to $75 million.

A consequence for the SLA of this very significant increase in capital withdrawal is the impact it has had on its current ratio.

The current ratio is the standard measure of an entity’s liquidity, or its ability to meet its liabilities. It is the ratio of its current assets to its current liabilities.

As at the end of the 2017/18 financial year the SLA’s current ratio was 0.9 against a budget target of 1.1.

In other words the SLA does not, because of the decision of the government to strip it of $35.5 million more than it had budgeted for, hold enough liquid assets to meet all its current liabilities.

On the question of the state of the

Since 1993: Volume 24, Number 43

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Crossword 25

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Gardening 26-27

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Letters 10

News 3-10

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filmmaker Kim Beamish. Story Page 22.

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budget there is one other intriguing note in the annual report about the variance in land sales.

These were explained as being a result of delayed settlements for Red Hill, Throsby and Denman Prospect 2.

The revenue for these delayed settlements will now, of course, be booked in the current financial year, which will (fortuitously, of course) assist in reducing the large structural deficit embedded in the Budget.

What must the Sydney based and essentially nameless and faceless members of the board of the SLA think of their first year’s effort?

A consequence of these failings was not just that it failed to meet its revenue target of $575.8 million by a staggering $187.7 million or by 33.6 per cent but that the shortage of land guaranteed another significant increase in the median price of detached housing in Canberra further exacerbating affordability and pushing the dream of almost all young families with children in the bottom two and a half income

quintiles into the never never. Despite these major failings of the Suburban Land Agency in its first full year of operation, a bizarre outcome of its failure to meet any of its land supply targets led to the actual gross profit margin generated from land sales to grow to 84.1 per cent which is 11 per cent higher than the obscenely rapacious target it had been set by the government of 72.8 per cent.

I would not be surprised if even the Russian mafia would blush if it achieved a gross profit margin of 84 per cent on its activities.

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.

WHEN IT MATTERS

SEVEN DAYS

Armistice brings a busy time to a ‘silent soldier’

THE centenary of the Armistice was a busy time for Florey man Don Longridge. As a member of Canberra’s Military Reenactment Group – a national living-history group – Don attended several functions across the region serving as a “silent soldier”, handing out information without speaking.

Recently returned from the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Verdun in France, Don also represents family member Pte Francis Craymor Whitfield, who died in 1916 at the first Battle of the Somme.

A RECENT survey revealing a disturbingly high percentage of Canberra women who feel unsafe in public after dark has elicited stories from other women who are regularly harassed in broad daylight. One woman reports being regularly “cat-called” from passing vehicles as she jogs across Commonwealth Avenue Bridge. Another says she is also frequently “cat called” and was once followed during an early morning run around the lake.

IF a local animal rights group has its way, the crowds that head to Thoroughbred Park on Melbourne Cup Day to party will need a new venue. But an attempt by the fledgling Anti-Speciesist Collective this year to shame people entering the event, along with intermittent rain and winds, failed to dampen the enthusiasm of the 5000-strong crowd.

The group set up a protest at the entrance to the venue displaying images and statements of what it called the “dark side” of the sport of kings and urged petition to ban horse racing in Canberra. The protestors, who joined a nation-wide Cup Day campaign, view horse racing as “countless for entertainment all year

also demonstrated at the Bungendore Rodeo and the

THE member for Fenner, , has gone from being called “a weird

the Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton to being a serious threat to the national economy. An opinion piece by Dr Leigh in “The New York Times” was labelled by Treasurer Josh Frydenberg as “a pathetic attack on his own country”, putting him firmly in the sights of the LNP attack dogs.

The Treasurer urged Labor leader Bill Shorten to rebuke his shadow assistant treasurer while two LNP MPs have called for Leigh to be sacked.

TWO pieces of protest poetry have appeared on security fencing at the redevelopment of a section of the Curtin shops. The more provocative of the two targets developer Nick Haridemos and reads: Nicolas keeps his fence so clean

But what’s behind it is obscene

The empty shops the story tell Curtin community go to hell He wants a tower in the air

For the Master Plan he doesn’t care

THE second part of the posted “prose” seemingly predicts a positive outcome for the community group that has been at loggerheads with developers and their plans for several years. Signed by Vikki and Michael, of Nelson Place, the piece says: But Mr Gentleman knows the rules And the Curtin community are not fooled So let’s enjoy the sun and wait For a ministerial decision to CELEBRATE!

FORMER 2CA breakfast radio announcer Frank Vincent , who was sacked by Capital Radio in January after a female journalist made allegations of sexual harassment, has issued a statement. Posted on the radio industry site “Jocks’ Journal”, Vincent describes a recently resolved defamation claim against “The Canberra Times” as “hats off, respect to all concerned. I’m so glad we’ve got this matter sorted!”

Vincent boasts “an unblemished, 40-year career” during which he has “enjoyed the respect and support of colleagues” including media heavyweights Doug Mulray, Wendy Harmer, Jessica Rowe, Andrew Denton Georgie Gardiner

AFTER a week of the predictably unpredictable Canberra spring weather, an opportunity to tweet about the weather has presented itself. The twitter account @CanberraWeather is up for grabs. The account which has been around since 2007 and has more than 2000 followers, offered: “Want to run this account?

DM@cmrn”.

Woden

7200

Tuggeranong

6293 7200

6251 2255 Cornerstone

6273 1784

6273 1784

NEWS / new biography

Unlovely Billy McMahon finally gets a biography

By Danielle NOHRA

MANIPULATIVE, terrible and fierce, yet William (Billy) McMahon was, until now, the only Australian prime minister who didn’t have a biography written about him.

The 250,000-word, 766-page biography, “Tiberius with a Telephone”, by Patrick Mullins will be launched at Paperchain bookshop, Manuka, on Thursday, November 22.

Its title makes reference to McMahon’s nickname, given to him by Labor opposition leader Gough Whitlam to describe McMahon’s endless plotting with political insiders.

McMahon (19081988), was the 20th Prime Minister of Australia, in office from 1971 before being beaten by Whitlan the following year. He was a minister for more than 21 years, the longest continuous service in Australian history.

Sydney and served in the Army during World War II, finishing with the rank of major. After the war he completed an economics degree before being elected to parliament in 1949. He was promoted to the ministry in 1951 and added to cabinet in 1956, holding sev eral different portfolios in the Menzies government.

Author Mullins, 30, of Kingston, started writing the novel about four years ago after finishing a PhD that involved reading every Australian prime ministerial po litical biography.

He was was born and raised in Sydney, studied law at the University of

He says McMahon was an obvious choice for a political biogra phy given no-one had written one before.

“He did a lot more than people think and that needed to be ex plained,” Mullins says.

“His time in politics was over a huge sweep of this country’s history.”

McMahon withdrew combat forces from Vietnam, legislated for Commonwealth government involvement in childcare, established the National Urban and Regional Development Authority and, according to the author, his biggest legacy was his push for free trade.

“[But] he was also a terrible person; he undermined colleagues, he gossiped and he manipulated people,” Dr Mullins says.

In 1951 when then prime minister Robert Menzies was about to appoint a new minister, McMahon got to work and shattered the likely candidate’s chances.

Mullins says McMahon, with his “had-to-be-done attitude”, landed the job as it was “his spot”.

“It was his kind of ruthless, amoral approach to politics,” he says.

“When the Governor-General Paul Hasluck resigned he said he was tired of trying to deal with [McMahon’s] constant undermining.”

Disliked amongst his colleagues, there were a few hurdles when interviewing people who had worked with McMahon.

“One of McMahon’s staffers didn’t want to talk,” Dr Mullins says.

OPEN DAY

24 NOVEMBER • 10AM-3PM

• Free entry

• Kids entertainment – jumping castle and glitter tattoos

• Live music – performed by Paddy Drum

• Sausage sizzle – provided by the Rotary Club

• Charity auction – Dog House competition (all proceeds going to HIA Charitable Foundation supporting Beyondblue)

“He said working for McMahon was one of the most horrible experiences of his life and he wanted to forget it.

“Another one of McMahon’s staffers flat out refused to talk to me for a long

“[He eventually said] I’ll tell you one thing about McMahon and then you can [get lost].”

His colleagues weren’t the only people who disliked him and journalists thought very little of him, too.

One time, Dr Mullins says, McMahon even leaked a story to a journalist only to call him “shameless” in public the next day for printing it, as if he had nothing to do with it.

“But McMahon managed to get to the top, nonetheless,” he says.

He also managed to stay in politics for a long time and the scope of his career was one of the author’s biggest

“Because his career was so long and so broad I had to come to grips with so many areas of policy,” he says.

But, after more than four years, Dr Mullins has become an expert on the topic and now that the biography’s been published he has some ideas swirling around for a new non-fiction book, which (he can guarantee) will not be on politics.

“Tiberius with a Telephone” will be launched at Paperchain, Manuka, 6pm, November 22.

DISPLAYS INCLUDE:

Jeldwen

Phantom Screens

Rylock

Holcim

Southern Cross Companies

Specialty Brick and Pavers

Seely

Legrand

GWA

Passive House

Loss sends Eva deep into her book

By Danielle NOHRA

A NATURAL storyteller from a young age, Eva Warren’s writing journey began as a dream –like most authors – but in the end became a healing activity after losing her husband.

“I worked out a lot of my own stuff through the characters,” says Eva, 74, of Macquarie, who recently launched her novel “A Dream in a Teacup”.

But the “dream” in the novel doesn’t refer to Eva’s passion for writing but rather illustrates the ideas of psychoanalyst Carl Jung.

“From a Jungian perspective, ‘A Dream in a Tea cup’ is a deeply personal story, which could easily be likened to me working through a dream, using the characters involved,” she says.

Eva says the fictional novel enabled her to dig deep into her subconscious and served as a therapeutic tool in a time of grief.

“My beloved husband of 51 years became ill and died during the last three years of its writing,” she says.

“Being able to escape into my creative side and delve into my psyche has been nothing short of a warm and healing balm.

“It was most enlightening because the deeper I dug, the more I came to recognise aspects of myself within almost every character.”

Set in 1949 in a working-class Canberra, the novel is about Brigid who, in an effort to make some sense of her life, records and works through her dreams daily.

It’s here that Brigid, a Catholic woman with a secret past, marries Dougal, a widower with four

children, who also leads a double life.

“Through her next-door neighbour, Brigid comes to hear about Carl Jung, and from what she could gather, Carl Jung and Hildegard von Bingen both become a catalyst in her redemption,” she says.

“It’s purely fiction but they also say write about what you know, so I based the novel in Westlake.”

Eva grew up in Westlake, which was then situated in Canberra’s embassy precinct – now known as Stirling Park.

“Westlakes’ 62 unlined, weatherboard cottages were only meant to be temporary,” she says.

They were set up to house the workers who came to

The ACT Container Deposit Scheme encourages recycling in the Canberra community and aims to reduce waste to landfill. Under the scheme, you are able to return eligible drink containers and receive a 10 cent refund for each container.

build early Canberra and were demolished in the ‘60s.

“It’s unique because Canberra’s seen as a political place but people don’t realise that real, ordinary people live here,” she says.

“These people in my story came to Canberra to

Through her writing Eva got to know the characters intimately and says they became her friends.

But there was a time when she once feared these characters would never come to life.

“I always loved telling stories from when I was little and I had a great imagination,” she says.

During Eva’s composition (writing) classes in primary school she says her work would always come back covered in red marks.

“The nun would read out the best two but, of course, mine was never read out,” she says.

“I couldn’t spell, the punctuation was dreadful and I used to waste so much time on the introduction that I had no time for the conclusion.”

Eva left school at 14 frustrated that her dreamt-up stories would probably never be written down.

“In my late thirties I went to night school and studied English and creative writing in the hope that I’d eventually be able to make these stories come to life,” she says.

It wasn’t until further down the track in her retirement, after a career in health, a masters in theology, ageing and spirituality, where Eva gained the courage and time to write.

Then, after joining a writer’s group her writing was refined again and her confidence increased, leading her to start from scratch with more clarity.

Ten years in the making and “A Dream in a Teacup” was launched on October 17.

adreaminateacup.com

Seminar about Parkinson’s

PARKINSON’S ACT is inviting anyone affected by the disease to its biennial seminar to share in the expert presentations aimed at enabling people living with Parkinson’s to live their best life now. The organisation estimates there are about 1500 people in the ACT affected by Parkinson’s, with more than 20 per cent of that number under the age of 50. The “Living Your Best Life Now” will be at the Southern Cross Club, 9am-4.45pm, Thursday, November 29. The program and registration are at parkinsonsact.org.au

Seniors’ Christmas fete

THE Canberra Seniors Centre has bric-abrac, books, jewellery, plants, clothes, toys and general household items for sale at its Christmas Fete, 10 Watson Street, Turner, 9am-2pm, on Saturday, November 17.

Movie night

THE Australia China Friendship Society (acfs.org.au) will screen “Camel Corner” in the Catchpole Room, Southern Cross Club Jamison, 7.30pm on Wednesday, November 21. The film tells the story of Li Sulan, who returns to her village after completing a jail sentence. She finds a job herding camels; but has the challenge of reconciling with the daughter she hasn’t seen for 20 years. Visitors welcome; donation $2 at the door.

WHAT’S ELIGIBLE?

Eligible containers are those drink containers that are commonly found in the litter stream, including most glass, plastics, aluminium, steel or liquid paperboard (cartons) between 150mL and 3L in size.

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CANBERRA MATTERS

What a mess, time for a new planning minister

HAVING spent time talking with numerous community council leaders, one thing stands out. What a job!

These volunteers dedicate so much of their precious time and resources (phone, petrol, internet etcetera) that they should be seen as philanthropic supporters of the city’s community councils.

Does this ACT government make their life easy? Nope!

Their days and nights are filled with dealing with dodgy development proposals, corrupted and inadequate planning rules, the constant degrading of biodiversity, the reduction in the tree canopy and other issues such as traffic problems and questionable decisions on bus routes.

The Weston Creek Community Council has its complex matters. On the one hand, they are dealing with questionable issues that affect the well-established suburbs – with Weston celebrating 50 years. On the other side there is the massively expanding new suburbs of Molonglo

This city needs a real-life planning minister who works with the electors to get great results – not one that sits on his hands and watches the city’s amenities being degraded.

including Coombs and Wright with as yet no shopping centres and minimal services and infrastructure plus up the hill is Denman Prospect that is rapidly expanding to be 7000 residents.

To make matters difficult, when planning for Molonglo was finalised the then planning minister removed building height limits and the requirements for community consultations on development applications. The legacy for Molonglo residents of decisions by that planning minister, Andrew Barr, is a lot of unnecessary life changing and time-consuming problems.

The stories are endless, such as: As densification continues, the already congested traffic on the Cotter Road has become horrendous; street parking around high-density, multiunit apartments is out of control; the amenity is something less than attractive with developers delivering uniformly bland (usually grey/white), simplistic designs for most of the ever increasing apartment blocks and

towers – and the list goes on. It isn’t exactly the bush capital in Molonglo. It certainly didn’t have to be like this.

Given the commitments of the community councils to see services and infrastructure enhanced, the government has wasted fantastic opportunities to work with these people to deliver on what the community continues to list as priorities.

The energy and commitment within larger community councils such as the Inner South, Woden and Weston Creek could be so much better utilised to bring about many positive changes to people’s lives instead of having to go into battle over questionable and corrupted decisions – and all that endless mind-numbing spin (enough spin, please!).

Mention master planning to any of the current, hard-working community councils and they will most likely shudder. It is not that they don’t believe that decisions in their suburbs should be done in the context of modern and relevant master plans. It is more that this planning instrument and its processes have been so corrupted in the hands of the current

now a tool to usher in fixed agendas – such as most of the inappropriate developments across Canberra.

Sadly, the current planning minister is fairly useless. This one cannot get shops to open in Coombs as the developer sits on the site and refuses to get in tenants. This planning minister is also doing little in Curtin with his planning mess delivering fenced off vacant shops.

This city needs a real-life planning minister who works with the electors to get great results – not one that sits on his hands and watches the city’s amenities being degraded.

It is time for a planning minister and planning bureaucrats who actually insist, not just talk about, good,

attractive, innovative and sustainable integrated design in urban areas –with loads of trees and biodiversity. The planning minister should not simply repeat the boring spin churned out by the planning bureaucrats. Having such dedicated people as the Weston Creek Community Council executive needs to be celebrated. But for their efforts to be really effective, this government needs to be shaken up and a real planning minister appointed –along with a complete change in culture within the planning directorate.

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

• Improve quality of life through connecting with community and mainstream services.

• Access to housing and support services, medical, leisure and social activities.

Hero’s story carries Nichole over the line

AS “the war to end all wars” drew to a close on November 11, 100 years ago, an Australian corporal, a volunteer stretcher bearer from Cooma, had just become the only soldier in the British Commonwealth to receive four Military Medals.

The award was introduced in 1916 for personnel below commissioned rank “for acts of gallantry and devotion to duty under fire”.

Despite the fact this record remains unsurpassed, Ernest Albert Corey is far from the household name of the man who performed a similar role, John Simpson, with the aid of his donkeys.

Over the last year, Queanbeyan author and social historian – and “CityNews” columnist – Nichole Overall, has been piecing together Cpl Corey’s story and has been awarded the Biennial Walter Stone Life Writing Award for 2018 by the Fellowship of Australian Writers (FAW) for an initial presentation of the project.

The award stipulates a work of “original, creative, literary excellence” with an Australian historical significance and at the presentation ceremony in Sydney on November 3, judge Dr Rae Luckie stated the standard of the entries received from around the country “was exceptional”.

Of the winning entry, Dr Luckie said: “‘Saving Sergeant Harlock’ is an inspirational and creative hybrid biography that effectively uses the elements of prose poetry. The author provides an eloquent insight into the Western Front and the sacrifice of so many young lives.”

Nichole says she’s delighted that the alternative style of the work resonates.

“As it isn’t a traditional or standard military history, or even biography exactly, this win is so affirming,” she says.

“Along with the centenary of the end of the Great War, it’s also the 90th anniversary of the FAW, an organisation with a membership that’s included Henry Lawson, Miles

POLITICS / energy royal commission Power to the people… at last

ENERGY prices go up, fossil fuels are damaging our planet, governments subsidise big coal-mining interests but reduce subsidies to the renewables sector. We pay more. We hear political promises and rhetoric. We get less.

The very worst aspects of Australian politics have played out in energy policy. Energy policy has really been about each political party undermining each other instead of acting in the best interest of the community. A royal commission is needed to separate the chaff from the grain.

When Labor attempted to put a tax on carbon the Greens resisted. It didn’t go far enough. The outcome – no effective carbon tax.

Franklin, and former Chair of Australian Literature at Sydney University, Professor Elizabeth Webby, so it’s all very humbling.”

“Ernie and the extraordinary feats of bravery he performed in a period of less than 18 months was first introduced to me by Canberra lawyer Peter Hohnen, who’d previously been involved with another book on World War I, the fascinating, and at that time also largely untold story of the German raider ship, ‘The Wolf’.

“Since then it’s been a fairly arduous process of investigation as the information on Ernie is sparse – he died in 1972, in Queanbeyan – finding relatives and trying to craft a story that’s not a typical war text and which connects with a wider readership than might normally pick up a book about such things.”

“I’m not a war historian, and that’s where Peter’s assistance is valuable, ensuring those aspects are accurate.”

Nichole says there’s still more to be done, but plans on having the work completed by April, one hundred years after Ernie was finally sent home, having been almost fatally wounded in the closing days of the war at one of its most significant final battles, breaking through the Germans’ famed Hindenburg Line.

“Every story of all who served deserves to be remembered. Ernie’s though, is different, not only for his singular feat of a Military Medal and three Bars, but because as he once pointed out, each was earned for saving lives, not taking them.”

Sometimes he could hear them; calls of “mother” reminding him many were no more than boys, younger even than his own brothers.

Others he simply stumbled across.

Held their hands.

Bowed his head.

Later they would tell him it was 17 hours. Without rest. Under fire. Into and out of that dead space between warring trenches. Saving.

The time is right with crossbench members in the House of Representatives holding the balance of power. All are concerned about energy policy. The political timing is perfect to demand a royal commission.

The coalition government resisted the popular idea of a royal commission into banking. The main argument against such a commission was that there were enough checks and balances and that any fault was a temporary aberration.

On September 1, 2016, current prime minister Scott Morrison told Parliament: “There is nothing more than crass populism seeking to undermine confidence in the banking and financial system, which is key to jobs and growth in this country”. It was a similar story of resistance to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.

As treasurer, Morrison finally folded on the banking royal commission and acknowledged findings about the banks and the regulators “were deeply disturbing”. Previously he had argued against a royal commission: “Politics is doing damage to our banking and financial system, and we are taking control as a government to protect the strength of our banking system”.

Energy prices need a cold, hard look. There are regulators. But there were also banking-industry regulators who provided an excuse to resist the banking royal commission. These have now been exposed as less than useless.

A royal commission into energy must address climate change as well as energy prices. It must include, but go beyond short-term issues such as pricing. However, the boiling frog of climate change remains an even more serious issue more than a decade after Kevin Rudd’s “the greatest moral challenge of our time”. The moral challenge is: what kind of a world will be passed on to our children and their children’s children?

Energy prices also need a cold, hard look. There are regulators. But there were also banking-industry regulators who provided an excuse to resist the banking royal commission. These have now been exposed as less than useless.

Would there be a similar finding in the energy markets? Fluctuations in the price of petrol and diesel seem to make no sense to most of us. Supposedly, there is no collusion and no price gouging. However, the price of crude drops and the price at the pump increases.

The price of diesel was 70 per cent less than petrol a couple of decades ago. Have there really been such significant changes in refining processes and access for diesel to be now significantly higher priced than petrol? Or are there just more vehicles using it providing greater profit opportunities for the multinationals? The NRMA refers to the current and previous “price cycles” lasting between three and four weeks. Is this more evidence of collusion?

Natural gas prices have blown through

the roof. Homeowners were lured into natural gas decades ago as a much cheaper, cleaner form of energy. What happened? The international sales of compressed natural gas have now pushed the price through the ceiling. It is worse. As Kathryn Diss reported in June for the ABC, emissions from Chevron’s Gorgon Plant off the WA coast in a single year could wipe out greenhouse savings from all solar panels installed by home owners in Australia.

Why has ExxonMobil paid no tax in Australia since 2013 and is unlikely to pay any in the next few years? In 2017, up to 40 per cent (or $62.8 million) in political donations remained secret. This might be a factor.

Secret donations, pricing, subsidies, poor regulation… and so it goes on. Is the real fear of the much needed energy royal commission that it will expose serious issues of fraud, deceit and corruption?

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

OPINION / tobacco threat to inmates

Why the ‘need’ to ban smoking in the prison?

THE ACT government has released a consultation draft ACT Drug Strategy and is seeking submissions and feedback on the draft.

Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health and Community Service in responding to the draft strategy has highlighted the urgent need for an indigenous-specific drug and alcohol residential rehabilitation facility. We regard this as the single greatest gap in drug services in the ACT.

Winnunga AHCS will also be raising questions about the process that the government proposes be used for considering the need it has raised to ban smoking in the AMC.

The draft strategy provides that consideration will be given under the strategy to “the need for smoke-free areas, including smoke-free correctional facilities”.

In light of the phrasing of the draft strategy, namely a proposal that the “need” to ban smoking in correctional facilities be examined, it was disappointing to see the Minister for Corrections and a government spokesperson talking not about the need for such a policy, but the basis on which a tobacco ban will be implemented.

I would be concerned if a decision to ban tobacco in the AMC has already been made and the only issue of concern to the government and officials, as it has been suggested, is how to prevent detainees from rioting,

I’d be concerned if a decision to ban tobacco in the AMC has already been made and the only issue of concern to the government and officials is how to prevent detainees from rioting.

as they did in prisons interstate, when a ban was implemented.

A question central to the banning of tobacco in the AMC surely is, therefore, “what possible reasons would detainees have for rioting if tobacco was banned in the prison”. There are a range of complex issues that require serious and objective consideration if tobacco is to be banned at the AMC.

A threshold question is on what basis does the government consider it appropriate to deny to people in prison access to something that does not pose a security risk and which every other adult in Australia is legally entitled to possess and use?

Other important questions would include:

• What is the rationale for this policy?

• What are the outcomes that it is hoped to achieve?

• What are the risks and likely consequences of imposing a ban on tobacco?

• Is the proposed ban deliberately punitive?

• Is it an additional form of punishment to be imposed to reinforce the power of those that operate the

machinery of justice by highlighting the powerlessness of the people locked up and under their control?

Some of the answers are obvious. For example, a ban on tobacco will have the effect of creating a black market within the prison for tobacco.

Tobacco will, like illicit drugs and mobile phones, become another high-value, tradeable product. The price of tobacco will obviously go through the roof but it will continue to be readily available in the AMC, just as are a range of illicit drugs and mobile phones.

By way of illustration a 25 gram packet of White Ox tobacco, which currently retails for around $40, attracts a price of a minimum of $500 in those prisons in Australia that have banned tobacco.

A ban on tobacco will almost certainly exacerbate the state of relations within the AMC between prisoners and prison officers, and between prisoners. The ban will be particularly difficult for prisoners who cannot afford to purchase either tobacco or drugs and will have serious implications for people who

sundayROAST

Stay in touch with the names making news on Sundays from 10am as 2CC and “CityNews” present Canberra’s only local weekend news and current affairs program.

It’s a revolving panel show that brings to the microphone great “CityNews” commentators and 2CC personalities.

Be part of the conversation and call 6255 1206 between 10am and noon.

are vulnerable.

An issue that receives little attention and which needs to be considered in any inquiry into the “need” to ban tobacco, as well as more broadly, is the extent to which power relationships and imbalances among detainees in the AMC impact on their families on the outside.

Drugs purchased in the AMC must, of course, be paid for and the networks of those supplying the drugs extend throughout the community.

A consequence of banning tobacco will be that many detainees who have chosen tobacco over other drugs inside the AMC for cost reasons, will inevitably be faced with a choice of either illicit drugs or contraband tobacco – neither of which they can afford.

It would be naïve to think for one minute people will simply decide to quit. Rather they will run up debts for which their families will be pursued on the outside or which they will be forced to pay in kind to the dealers inside the prison.

The most common response of detainees when asked why they use drugs or smoke tobacco in the AMC is because they have an addiction

or because of the therapeutic or calming effect it has on them and so helps them navigate and survive the mind-numbing monotony and the dangerous and threatening atmosphere which prevails in the AMC.

My concern is that the push to deny tobacco to people in prison elevates the undoubted benefits of not smoking above the evidence of or an understanding of the potentially very negative consequences such a ban would have on a group of people, many of whom live with mental health and substance abuse issues and have led lives characterised by deep trauma, disadvantage and marginalisation.

Julie Tongs is the CEO of Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health and Community Service

JULIE TONGS

LETTERS

No,

Cedric, glyphosate is safe

CEDRIC Bryant’s recent letter (CN, October 31) contains a number of factual errors that need to be corrected.

Not one country around the world has a ban on the use of glyphosate.

Nor is glyphosate under review by the World Health Organization. In fact, three branches of the WHO are on record stating glyphosate presents neither a cancer nor human health risk.

Australia’s regulator, the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority, recently examined glyphosate and found there were no grounds for its approved uses to be reconsidered. Similarly, every independent, science based regulatory agency globally (including; Germany, NZ, Canada, the US and the EU) has comprehensively evaluated glyphosate and found it safe to use in accordance with label directions.

While many Australian councils have considered the ongoing use of glyphosate to control weeds, the conclusions of scientifically competent regulators globally should give them (and the broader community, including home gardeners) confidence that glyphosate is safe.

Matthew Cossey, CEO CropLife Australia, Barton

Cross word for the crossword

WHILST I enjoy your crosswords that sometimes challenge me, I must draw your attention to the November 1 crossword and an inaccuracy.

Clue: Near which NSW Central Coast town is the Reptile Park?

Answer: Somersby not Wyoming.

History: First founded by Eric Worrell in 1948 and known as Ocean Beach Aquarium at Umina Beach. In 1959 it was renamed the Australian Reptile Park and moved to Wyoming. In 1996 it moved to Somersby adjacent to Old Sydney Town (which opened in 1975 and closed in 2003) where it remains today.

Kerry Bryant, via email (Thank you, Kerry. We stand corrected – ed)

Money should be for veterans

PERHAPS the War Memorial’s director Brendan Nelson (“Seven Days”, November 1) could explain to the families of past and current war veterans, who still suffer from the experience of fighting wars, why $500 million should be spent to expand a monument, rather than help and support veterans who need and deserve our help now, not in the future? An increase of bricks and mortar to the War Memorial at this time is not a practical way to help veterans who deserve and need our help today.

A Crowe, via email

Save Anzac Hall

HOW moving it was to experience the atmosphere at our War Memorial on Saturday night. Crowds of people respectfully filed through Anzac Hall. This award-winning Hall was built only 17 years ago and has become a very special place for remembrance and respect. Its planned demolition is unbelievable.

Penny Lilley, via email

Keep it up, columnists!

YOUR columnists do a fine job of attracting attention to your magazine. I always read Peter Costigan and Michael Moore who often put this arrogant and out-of-touch ACT Chief Minister and the ACT government on the rack. Keep up the good work!

Adrian Aylott, via email

Write to us

UNDERCURRENT DESIGN MARKET / November

23-25

advertising feature

‘People enjoy meeting the artists and I think it’s an opportunity to break down some of those walls in the art world.’

Art market showcases Australian creative talent

WITH a focus on showcasing Australian designers and makers, the 2018 Undercurrent Design Market is a chance to buy beautiful, original and gorgeous things direct from the artist, says organiser Richard Baz.

“Artists and makers are sometimes put on a pedestal, but at the markets you’re meeting the makers and seeing what they do, and it’s nice seeing everyone being supportive,” he says.

“People enjoy meeting the artists and I think it’s an opportunity to break down some of those walls in the art world.”

Now in its ninth year, Undercurrent will be held on November 23-25 in the foyer area of the National Portrait Gallery, and will feature 70 new and returning artists across 56 stalls, selling original jewellery, clothes and ceramics, glass, shoes and homewares.

It kicks off on Friday, November 23 from 5pm, with guitarist Mickey Sulit, nibbles and a bar, says Richard.

“It’s a great start to the market and we find that people come along for a look then come back to shop over the weekend,” he says.

“We’re at maximum capacity this year and it’s going to be big – last year 17,000 people came through, which is the most we’ve ever had.”

Richard says returning artists include artist Trevor Dickinson, who features Canberra’s bus stops, celebrated local jeweller Alison Jackson and Wendy Voon, who does the “most amazing” knitwear.

“I’ve had artists coming to the markets again and again, so it’s a bit like a family reunion,” he says.

Richard’s looking forward to Melbourne-based Preston Zly Designs joining the market, featuring

artisan duo Johanna Preston and Petr Zly who design and produce bespoke handmade footwear.

“Their shoes are quite amazing, and Johanna was keen to come last year but was double-booked so we’re excited to have her this year,” says Richard.

“We’ve also got ceramicist Margaret Brown, who’s one of the patriarchs of the ceramics world, glass artist

Harriet Schwarzrock, a Craft ACT collective, All The King’s Men who makes and designs canvas and leather bags, and Made by Marcelle who makes really beautiful concrete planters and homewares in pastel colours.”

Richard says he and his wife Mel O’Hanlon, who co-organise the market, love to support Australian designers and makers through their Curatoreum shops at the National Portrait Gallery, the National Arboretum and now in Kendall Lane, New Acton.

“We’re there and we’re celebrating Australian design,” he says.

“Our focus is promoting local and national designers and makers rather than going for the latest trends.

“The good thing about Undercurrent is that it’s ideally placed just before Christmas, but it’s also so that people come and buy, and support artists at this time of year.

“It’s when people buy gifts, and it’s a good time to celebrate that, an opportunity to get unique, highquality, gorgeous items and support artists directly.

“Everything at Undercurrent is handmade, it’s all unique and you get to meet the people who actually design and make it.”

Undercurrent Design Market, National Portrait Gallery, King Edward Terrace, Barton, 5pm-8pm on Friday, November 23, and 10am-5pm Saturday, November 24 and Sunday, November 25.

Howzat! Holt’s a big hit with sportspeople HOLT IN FOCUS

HOLT, named after former Prime Minister Harold Holt, was gazetted on July 2, 1970.

Bounded by Southern Cross Drive, Starke Street, MacNaughton Street and Drake Brockman Drive, its streets are labelled after sportsmen and women.

Inside these borders is the town’s designated group centre, Kippax Fair.

It was named after NSW cricketer Alan Kippax, who was regarded as one of the great stylists of Australian cricket during the era between the two World Wars.

Alan overcame a late start to Test cricket to become a regular in the Australian team between the 1928–29 and

being the local hub

KIPPAX Fair Shopping Centre has been Holt’s local hub for more than 40 years, says centre manager Georgia Diamond.

Georgia is part of the family that owns the centre and says the family, the centre and the community have grown together since 1977.

“Due to its long association with the surrounding suburbs, the shopping centre continues to evolve to meet the expanding and changing needs of West Belconnen,” she says.

“At Kippax Fair you can run your errands, find that something special, cater to your beauty needs and catch up with family and friends over coffee, lunch or dinner.”

Georgia says Kippax Fair is easy to get around and has everything people need under the one roof.

“Kippax Fair has always aimed to satisfy the surrounding community’s service and retail needs by offering a range of professional services and stores in a safe, friendly and convenient environment,” Georgia says.

“Kippax Fair prides itself on bringing the community together and providing a friendly and relaxing environment.

“I love walking through the centre and greeting our regular customers or meeting new patrons and seeing groups of friends catching up and enjoying themselves at one of our many cafes/restaurants.”

Kippax Fair Shopping Centre, Hardwick Crescent, Holt. Visit kippaxfair.com.au

Sisters love helping people feel good

AT Finesse Beauty Salon, sisters Maria Pandolfo and Helen Caruso love helping people feel good, confident, happy and rejuvenated.

With a long-term passion for hair, make-up and beauty, the sisters have been in business together for about 28 years using Ella Bache products to provide clients with a complete range of skincare services and home-care products.

Maria, who has been using Ella Bache products for almost 30 years, says it works well for any skin type.

“It’s such a large range and it will cater for skin with acne, help with ageing, brightening and hydrating,” she says.

“We love seeing results from facials, recreating eyebrows, customer interaction and making customers feel good about themselves afterwards.

“We specialise in Bloomea microdermabrasion, which is good for pigmentation, fine lines and stretch marks, and can be used on the face, neck or hands.

“It’s good for sun spots on the hands and just gives a total rejuvenation of the skin.

“We also do lash and brow tinting and Nouvo lash lifting, which perms the lashes and makes them sit up like you’re wearing mascara.

“[And] we do manicures and pedicures, and EVO gel

Doctors offer quality care with a family focus

DR Natalie Boulton and Dr Richard Evans, who have been working at Holt Medical Centre for a combined six years, have taken over the practice on the retirement of Dr Graham Dawson.

“We’ve continued to run the practice as it is, except we’ve made improvements to the facility and the practice equipment,” Dr Evans says.

Dr Dawson started the practice in 1973.

“We really liked the way Graham ran the practice, we really like the patients, the family focus, the individual focus and the location,” Dr Evans says.

“We have a really good relationship with the long-term patients but we’re also expanding the practice for new patients.”

With a 30-year-old background in the military, Dr Evans says he is comfortable navigating through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs system, as well as normal general practice issues.

“We’re comfortable in a range of areas includ ing mental health, children’s health and chronic care,” he says.

Dr Boulton’s background is in the Navy. However, they both agree that a key focus for them is having a face-to-face relationship with patients.

“We’re a practice with traditional values and quality care,” Dr Evans says.

Holt Medical Centre, 8 Holt Place, Holt. Call 6254 3324 or visit holtmedicalcentre.com

Shop5, Kippax Fair, Hardwick Cres, Holt Ph: 6254 1064

Regardless if you are an individual or a Business, Falcon Legal can help.

Serving the West Belconnen community, Falcon Legal is conveniently located next to Kippax Shopping Centre. Free Parking is available or it’s just a 2-minute walk from the Kippax Bus interchange.

We can assist in all areas of law, from buying or selling a house, drafting your will, commercial leasing, probate or resolving your family law issues.

Flexible appointments are available, including Saturdays, by appointment just give us a call.

HOLT IN FOCUS

Necia leads the legal eagles with a local eye

SINCE opening on July 25, Falcon Legal is all about looking at problems in a holistic manner, says managing partner Necia Wearne.

Located on Hardwick Crescent, Falcon Legal used to be home to Concorde Legal and Jason Hinder & Associates and now, as Falcon Legal, it holds the security packets from that time.

“Any clients who have had documents can contact us and we’ll confirm what we hold and if they want to update the stuff we’re happy to make an appointment,” Necia says.

As for all its other legal services, Necia says Falcon Legal looks at everything from a different perspective to see how the team can help the client in the best possible way.

“Sometimes the solution is not necessarily just a legal one,” she says.

“I can refer them to the stakeholder group, which is made up of accountants, counsellors, psychologists and migration agents.”

But when it comes to law, Falcon Legal covers most areas with a specialty in family law, wills and estates, and conveyancing.

“We can give initial advice in any general area of law and if we don’t have expertise we will find someone who does,” she says.

“And we have flexible appointments because we understand people are busy and can’t always get in during office hours.”

Falcon Legal Canberra, Unit 5, 12 Hardwick Crescent, Holt. Call 6188 3850.

WITH a mission to create a loving and nurturing community, UnitingCare Kippax is an outward-facing church with a strong commitment to connect with the local community, says its executive officer Meg Richens.

“We have a number of different community services that we offer, with a lot of them focusing on children aged zero to five,” she says.

Mower Shed provides garden services at reasonable rates.

Concession rates available. For bookings call 6254 1733 and ask for Priscilla Kippax Kids

Like to get out more, meet other parents?

Do you have a child under school age? Kippax Kids playgroups are available every day of the week!

Ring Elena on 6254 1733 to find out more. There’s a Blokes Playgroup too! Kippax Monster Garage Sale - May 11th 2019

Come and grab a bargain at our Monster Garage Sale! Come and buy a special gift or bargain shop for yourself. Donations accepted at Kippax Uniting in the week leading up to the sale.

“We’re totally committed to the first five years of the children’s life because that’s when you make a difference in people’s lives forever.

“We have a blokes’ playgroup where dads can come together and bring their kids.”

As an inclusive church Meg says the community services are open to anyone.

Including their social enterprise called the “Mower Shed”, which provides cheap gardening services for people on a low income and it also provides people in the community with a job for those who might find it hard to get one.

“It’s really important to us to build a community,” Meg says.

“People need other people and community groups are an important part of our wellbeing.

“We’re trying to build a community where everyone gets to live a decent life.”

UnitingCare Kippax, corner of Luke Street and Hardwick Crescent, Holt. Call 6254 1733, email kuc@kippax.org.au or visit kippax.org.au

Local agents with lots of love for the area

LOCATED in Kippax Fair, Agent Team Belconnen is a local real estate agency specialising in residential sales and property management.

“In the current market it’s really important to present your house in the best possible light,” says the director of Agent Team Belconnen, Steve Lowe, who can help homeowners from the renovation to the sale of a house.

Using his experience in the building trade, Steve can help guide owners to make a profitable purchase or get the most out of the sale of their home.

“Our high-exposure marketing package reaches more buyers, creating more interest in your property,” Steve says.

“We can take over the entire process from cosmetic renova -

tions (minor to major) to styling, presentation, marketing and then the sale.

“We have packages where we can cover the cost of the renovation upfront, which means you can be on the market for zero dollars and then we take a payment on settlement.”

The friendly staff at Agent Team Belconnen love the local area and say that a lot of buyers love it, too.

“Buyers are coming back into the area because of the larger block sizes, which can be renovated or extended,” Steve says.

Agent Team Belconnen, shop 6, 48 Hardwick Crescent, Holt. Call 0414 720532, email admin@agentteam.com.au or visit agentteam.com.au

www

Supermarket proud of service and range

OFFERING more than good prices, Holt

IGA also delivers a good service, a range of products and convenience, says owner John Tourloukis.

“You can park at the door and duck in and out quickly,” says John, who took over the store in 2014 with the belief that IGA is the best independent supplier in Australia.

“We have a good range of products and a niche market, too,” he says.

“We also have the capability to get products customers want.

“We try to keep a lot of local products such as local wines, but that comes down to availability and supply and demand.”

John says he’s proud to hear people complimenting the store’s service, with one customer affirming there was no negative feedback online about Holt IGA.

“Our business model is about being convenient and delivering a friendly service,” he says.

“For the size of the store we still have a pretty good range and there’s not many things we don’t have here.”

Holt IGA, Holt Place, Holt. Call 6254 4694 or visit iga.com.au

Nurturing environment for preschoolers

Locally Owned and managed by John Tourloukis Holt Place, Holt Shops

“Come & Enjoy the personised service from an independent grocer”

• Extensive Meat & Fresh Produce range

• Wide range of groceries

• Liquor- Beer, Wine and Pre-Mix (all major brands)

SINCE 2016, YMCA Holt Early Learning Centre on Starke Street has been providing children aged six weeks to six years with a nurturing environment, says centre director Michelle Johnson.

As an “Exceeding National Quality Standards”-rated centre, Michelle says it delivers highquality education and care services, which incorporate the practices and principles of Magda Gerber’s RIE philosophy: “Respect for, and trust in the child to be an initiator, an explorer and a self learner.”

“We provide an environment for the children that is physically safe, cognitively challenging and emotionally nurturing,” says Michelle.

“YMCA Holt also delivers a preschool program for children

aged four to five, as preparation for the all-important transition to formal schooling.”

Michelle says the teachers and educators prepare the children by developing trusting relationships with them and families.

“[They’re] based on respect, communication and collaboration, with an emphasis on inclusion and equality for all children and families,” she says. “YMCA Holt is a modern, purpose-built Early Learning Centre featuring an openplan design concept, that supports children as they develop family, peer and community relationships.”

YMCA Holt Early Learning Centre, 180 Starke Street, Holt. Call 6242 4040 or visit canberra.ymca.org.au

Walking into YMCA Holt is a unique and special experience.

Firstly, you notice the centre is made up of open plan spaces filled with light, natural materials, busy sounds of children, cosy nests and comforting aroma’s from the central kitchen – it is a space in which you immediately feel welcome, wish to belong and want to explore.

OPENING HOURS: MONDAY TO FRIDAY – 7:30AM TO 6:00PM

|

Discover the experts who power Mitchell

IN August, community spirit saw Mitchell traders band together and launch the “Find It In Mitchell” website, the first of its kind in Canberra.

The Mitchell Traders Association, which was formed earlier this year after business owners felt the industrial suburb was being “neglected”, manages the website.

Association secretary Julian Kusa says the site creates a positive digital presence for more than 400 Mitchell businesses.

“It’s the first of its kind,” he says. “Particularly in an industrial precinct.”

The suburb itself was named after Maj. Sir Thomas Livingstone Mitchell, surveyor-general and explorer of NSW, and all its streets are named after Australian industrialists.

This week “CityNews” meets some of the top expert businesses operating out of the northside’s commercial hub.

finditinmitchell.com.au

Experts offer energy solutions for everyone

INSULPRO is a Canberra company dedicated to ensuring anyone can access energy efficient solutions for their home, business or commercial property through solar and insulation.

Operating for more than six years, Insulpro is made up of a dynamic team who are the heart and soul of the business.

By partnering with Canberra’s leading Clean Energy Council

Accredited Solar Installers, an Insulpro spokesperson says it can provide quality, affordable, energy efficient solutions for businesses and residents in the ACT and surrounds.

“We use high-quality products and offer high-quality, friendly service you can trust and rely on,” says Insulpro.

“Our vision is to create an eco-friendly company passionate

founder Catherine Smith.

“We are a one-stop-shop for all of a client’s financial needs,” she says.

“We are tax accountants, financial planners, mortgage brokers, real estate agents, property managers, and superannuation specialists – all under one roof.”

Catherine says WFS has been finalists in the Telstra Business Awards in 2017 and 2018.

“The awards are recognition for the Wholistic Financial Solutions model and the way it meets all of a client’s financial needs in a very cost-effective way,” she says.

“We are the only firm in Canberra licensed, qualified

Accountant of the Year and SMSF Firm of the Year. Catherine says SMSF, or self-managed super funds, is a great wealth-creation vehicle for those interested in buying a business premises, or a residential property or those with high superannuation balances as they can be more cost effective than traditional super and give clients greater control and flexibility.

Catherine Smith says SMSFs are simple, easy, flexible and affordable to set up and run.

Wholistic Financial Solutions, Level 1, 83-101 Lysaght Street, Mitchell. Call 6162 4546 or visit wfcanberra.com.au

Insulpro are Canberra’s energy efficiency experts specialising in all your solar and insulation needs.

Receive 20% OFF when you bundle insulation and solar services OR 10% OFF individual services

Contact us and quote CITYNEWS to receive this special offer!

FREE SEMINAR SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND INFORMATION NIGHT

Do you want the Simple Truth about Self Managed Super Funds?

• What are the benefits of the budget changes?

• How a 6 member SMSF can work for your family?

• How much do I need to invest to make an SMSF cost effective?

• Investments – Where can I invest?

• Borrowing to buy property in my fund

• What control do I have? What can I do and what can’t I do?

• Am I too young to consider an SMSF or am I too old?

What will you learn?

• What are the advantages?

• What are the disadvantages?

• What is all the Hype about?

• What are the benefits?

• SMSF as a tax haven

SMSFs are simple, easy, flexible and affordable to set up. Let Catherine Smith show you how an SMSF may be cheaper to run than your existing retail or industry funds.

THE SIMPLE TRUTH

20th November 2018 6.15pm for 6.30pm start

Location: Location to be advised (based on numbers)

RSVP: Essential

To RSVP, or for more information about our SMSF services, or to arrange a free meeting to discuss, call Canberra’s local SMSF experts on 6162 4546 or email seminars@wfscanberra.com.au or visit wfscanberra.com.au/events

Lysaght

MITCHELL

FIND IT IN MITCHELL.com.au advertising

Big

future for rhythmic gymnastics gym

AFTER about 10 years in Wanniassa, Elementz Rhythmic Gymnastics has settled into its new home in Mitchell at the back of the Flip Out building in Dacre Street.

Established by a former Australian representative in rhythmic gymnastics, Celicia McHard initially opened Elementz Rhythmic Gymnastics after moving to Canberra and realising there was no rhythmic gymnastic clubs here.

Celicia says the new space in Mitchell is big with high ceilings, which is perfect for the high-performing rhythmic gymnasts who train 26-hours a week under her coaching.

“We recently had two of our rhythmic gymnasts selected to trial for the junior world championships for next year,” she says.

“I love seeing that the hard

work has paid off and people have achieved their goals.”

But it’s not all competitive, and Celicia says Elementz Rhythmic Gymnastics offer a really good recreational program.

“People (of all ages) come for one hour a week and do it for fun, friendships, the development of flexibility and fitness,” she says.

“It’s the perfect sport because it combines gymnastics and dance.

“We do movement for music and use hand-held apparatuses such as ribbons, hoops and balls.

“It’s a creative type of training and you have fun whilst you’re doing it so often forget you’re working out.”

Elementz Rhythmic Gymnastics, 4/45 Dacre Street, Mitchell. Call 6112 8460 or visit elementz.com.au

Spray tanning in time for summer

RAVEN Waves, a full-service salon specialising in hair extensions, is excited to announce that it now does spray tanning, says owner and beautician Catherine

Using the brand “Naked Tan”, Catherine says it’s a great timely addition for the salon now that summer

“We love making women in Canberra feel good about themselves and giving them a confidence

And Catherine says customers will feel even better

“We just love hair extensions!” she says, and is excited to share that Raven Waves sponsored “Bachelor” contestant Emily Dibden for her hair extensions while she was on the show.

“She’s a friend and a client, so when she told me she was going on the show I said: ‘You need to have hair extensions’,” she says.

But Raven Waves doesn’t stop at extensions and Catherine says its a one-stop-shop and can provide a hair, make-up and tanning package for occasions such as weddings and formals.

for all kinds of cars

ESTABLISHED in 1995, Premier Automotive has grown alongside the Mitchell area, building itself a reputation from its quality work and competitive prices.

“We do anything from new-car servicing, ACT registration inspections, steering suspension and tyres, brakes and all other general mechanical repairs,” says director Rob Cunningham, who has always had an interest and passion for cars.

Linked to Premier Automotive is Premier Auto Sales, which sells quality used cars.

Rob says as specialists in all aspects of car repairs and servicing they know exactly what to look out for when checking over the used cars they offer.

“All of the vehicles we supply are inspected and serviced right here in our own well-equipped workshop to ensure they are ready for the road,”he says.

With cars varying from $5000 to $50,000, Rob says each of them is handpicked and each comes with a roadworthy certificate. They also offer an optional extended warranty.

Premier Auto Sales also buys cars, so if people are in the market to sell or trade their car they can come by or call for more details.

Premier Automotive, 5 Winchcombe Court, Mitchell. Call 6242 8450, email service@premierautos.com.au or visit premierautos.com.au

Battery store offers prizes

DURING November and December All

Type Battery Solutions is conducting a Christmas promotion for the chance to win one of three battery prizes.

“All you need to do is to bring your car to the shop, have the battery checked and receive an entry into the draw,” says All Type Battery Solutions’ owner Peter Macaulay.

As an independent battery outlet store in Canberra, All Type Battery Solutions offers a wide range of quality batteries at competitive prices, says Peter.

The store stocks batteries for motor vehicles such as cars, trucks, motorcycles, 4WDs, as well as batteries for security reasons, NBN, solar, marine vehicles and lawn items.

during business hours and Peter says their battery brands include Bosch, Super Start, Supercharge and Trojan.

“We also carry a wide range of battery accessories such as battery chargers, jump starters, bridge leads (made to measure) and 4WD dual battery kits,” he says,

“Battery checks are complimentary and there is no obligation to purchase a replacement.

“Should you have a battery failure after normal business hours, we have a 24/7 after hours emergency service to get you on your way again.”

All Type Battery Solutions, 9/12Sandford Street, Mitchell. Call 6241 1671 or call 0404 821194 for emergencies. Visit

FIND IT IN MITCHELL

Justin totally knows his business maintenance

WITH the catchphrase “install, maintain and sustain”, Justin Hyland, of Pacific Facilities Maintenance, says the locally owned and operated business offers services in electrical, air conditioning, fire protection and general building maintenance.

Justin, who is the regional business development manager, has been in the industry for about 30 years and was an electrician working for major national companies before deciding to start a local business.

“We do the installation, we offer ongoing preventative maintenance and we make provision for life-cycle analysis and reporting and conditioning reporting.”

And while Pacific Facilities Maintenance provides a multitude of services, Justin says the tradesmen are largely kept under the same banner.

“We have people from the electricity, fire and refrigeration trades that are licensed tradesmen directly employed by the company,” he says.

This means they’re ambassadors to the company and Pacific Facilities Maintenance can directly dispatch them to jobs, Justin says.

“We can offer a one-stop solution,” he says.

“Especially in the commercial space we can offer electrical, mechanical and fire protection services as a bundled solution and manage all disciplines with in-house competencies.

SCENE / around canberra

by

Justin Hyland: 02 6262 4673

Website: www.pacificfm.com.au

Email: service@pacificfm.com.au

Like us on Facebook: Pacific Facilities Maintenance

BATTERY CHECK

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Artist of year the reel deal

By Helen Musa

A MODEST but keenly observant documentary filmmaker with an eye for world events has been named the 2018 “CityNews” Artist of the Year.

The first filmmaker to receive the award, now in its 28th year, Kim Beamish was singled out by the Canberra Critics Circle judging panel for his deeply original and empathetic approach and sensitive observational style, which the critics said had brought a much-needed human dimension to the news grabs on our TV screens. He received a $1000 cheque from “CityNews” and a bowl designed by the late Canberra artist Robert Foster of F!NK Design.

On learning of his selection as Artist of the Year, the astonished Beamish said: “There are so many great artists in Canberra, so many artists out there who would be just as worthy, if not more worthy, of this.”

Beamish shot to fame in 2015 for “The Tentmakers of Cairo”, his documentary feature about a small community of male artisans, filmed in Egypt as the Arab Spring unfolded. That won him the US’s Margaret Mead Filmmaker Award for artistic excel lence and original cultural storytelling. It also won the Prix Buyens-Chagoll at Visions du Réel, and the El-Rey Award for narrative documentary excellence at the Barcelona Film Festival.

But Beamish had already been combining his observational doco style with a good look at world affairs in his 2006 documentary feature “Just Punishment”, which is about the case of the Australian Van Nguyen who was executed in Singapore in 2005 for drug trafficking.

Would you like to watch those old family videos once again, or listen to your favourite records on CD?

We can take your vinyl records or cassette tapes and put them onto CD and we transfer VHS tapes onto DVD.

By Helen Musa

A “MAGICAL recreation” of “Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” has been written by Aussie composer, Judy Stubbs, featuring vocal ensemble Eklektika and Steel City Strings, and musicians from the Illawarra and Shoalhaven region. “If the audience comes expecting ‘covers’, they’ll be in for a massive surprise,” Stubbs says. At C Block Theatre, Gorman Arts Centre, 7.30pm, Saturday, November 17. Book at agac.com.au or at the door.

THE fourth annual “Winepress” writers’ event in the Yass Valley will have as guests authors Sarah Rice and Kim Mahood for an afternoon of discussions led by Evol McLeod, with wine tastings, writing, art and cheese. At Eden Road Wines, 3182 Eden Road, Murrumbateman, 2pm, November 18. Tickets at the door.

MUSICA da Camera will present its final concert in the orchestra’s 40th year with violinist Gillian Bailey-Graham performing “Classic Favourites” and several players presenting the Vivaldi “Concerto for Four Violins” and Corelli’s “Christmas Concerto”. At Holy Covenant Church, Cook, 2.30pm, Saturday, November 17. Book at musicadacamera.org.au

CANBERRA composer and pianist Michael Dooley will launch a new CD with 12 original pieces on it, composed and performed by Dooley and lyric soprano Julie O’Connor from Young. At North Belconnen Uniting Church, 30 Conley Drive, Melba, 2.30pm, Sunday, November 18. Book at trybooking.com and at the door (cash only).

SABINO Gaita, Luca Sala and Evans Tonon are The Italian Tenors, who combine their classical roots with Neapolitan songs and their own blend of Italian pop. They’ll be at the Southern Cross Club in Woden, 8pm, November 23. Book at cscc.com.au or 6283 7200.

NOW in its eighth year, Iranian Film Festival Australia will be at ARC Cinema, National Film and Sound Archive, November 17-18. Program and bookings at nfsa.gov.au

THE RocKwiz Revue will bring comedy, “kwiz”, crowd karaoke, musicianship and “a cavalcade of stars” to Canberra Theatre, Monday, November 19.

CANBERRA Men’s Choir is hosting the inaugural Canberra Choir Festival in conjunction with the Harmonie German Club, on Saturday, November 24. Book at trybooking.com

MUSICAL THEATRE / ‘Madiba’

The full Nelson put to music

By Helen Musa

WHEN an uplifting musical about the late Nelson Mandela arrives at the Canberra Theatre later this month, the audience may well be jumping with joy.

For “Madiba the Musical” has a heart-warming message of renewal as its basis.

When “CityNews” catches up with South African actor Perci Moeketsi, who plays Mandela, we meet a courteous smooth talker, well-equipped to take on the role of the Xhosa aristocrat (“Madiba” was his Xhosa clan name) who became one of the world’s most admired men and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

Gentlemanly to the core, even on the notorious Robben Island, Mandela sometimes irritated supporters by his apparently conciliatory manner. Underneath there was a steely determination that resulted in the formation of the Rainbow Nation, the new South Africa.

“In the musical, we see Mandela’s early career as a lawyer struggling against injustice when he was called the ‘Black Pimpernel’ and the way he was caught and taken to Robben Island,” Moeketsi says.

Act 2 covers Mandela’s 27 years in prison through to the presidency in 1994.

“It’s a great dramatic story about conquering evil and winning,” he says.

A veteran actor who once played the lead in a township version of “Romeo and Juliet”, he has also performed with the South African State Theatre and in shows such as “Aladdin” and “Beauty and the Beast”. Moeketsi asserts that musicals can deal with serious matters, so long as

MUSIC

“Music is in the heart of the people,” he says of his countrymen.

“There’s a song for every event in life in Africa.”

“The important thing is to get the mix right… we want people to see the serious side, but to leave on an upbeat note,” he says.

Part of the serious action in the Robben Island scenes involves a fictional character played by a well-known former Canberra identity, Tim “Timomatic” Omaji.

Timomatic (his hip-hop name) came to Australia from Nigeria with his family at age 10 months, cut his teeth in music and theatre with the Canberra hip-hop group Kulture Break, then studied at Narrabundah College and briefly at the University of Canberra before heading for big-city fame and fortune, later playing Tyrone in “Fame the Musical” and competing in both “So You Think You Can

he still has close friends in Canberra and in July played a sell-out show to a home crowd at The Street Theatre.

His role as Sam Onatou, an interesting character who acts as a kind of foil for Mandela, is a big break for him and a dramatic change from his time on reality TV.

“Sam’s an activist, he’s excited and wants to fight the oppressive power but through meeting Mandela he discovers that violence is not the answer, this is the real journey in the musical,” he says. “I love the theatre, because on stage you can hide behind your character. People will be surprised to see me in this role, I’m the only one who really gets angry at Mandela.”

“Mabida the Musical”, Canberra Theatre, November 22-24. Book at 6275 2700.

Roland goes Bach to the future

By Helen Musa

THERE was never going to be any mystery about what we’d see in the 2019 Canberra International Music Festival if director Roland Peelman had anything to do with it – it was always going to be Bach, Bach and more Bach – Johann Sebastian, that is.

And he’s delivered on the 2019 program, which celebrates 25 years of the event.

“We have chosen the music of JS Bach as our central focus,” Peelman said.

“Bach as a universal figure in music… Bach as an anti-fashion icon… Bach is a master of counterpoint and a potent symbol for today’s multiplicity of voices.”

Few in the music world would argue with that. To mathematicians, Bach is still the master of complex numerical interactions, jazz lovers always say: “Bach swung” and music appreciators the world over still flock to any string work by the master, as well as any of his great, sacred oratorios.

Peelman says he wants to “rejoice in the ever-deepening mastery of baroque specialists from Australia and Europe, their quest to reveal the intricate fabric of Bach’s perpetual musical flow”.

One such will be Canberra born-and-bred violinist Kristian Winther, who will play not just one but ALL the Bach violin solo works in one day.

“This music reaches to the heavens in the most fiendish and devilish way, yet yields the greatest of rewards,” Peelman says, and the idiosyncratic Winther is just the person to do it.

Bach, he says, is always being “re-discovered, reimagined and re-mixed”, so Peelman is jumping, boots and all, into deeper territory, saying: “We want to unlock the roots he left in the Central Australian desert amongst people who had never heard of prelude or fugue.”

He has engaged didgeridoo artist William Barton and

the Ntaria Ladies Choir of Hermannsburg to perform JS Bach chorales in Arrernte or Aranda language.

There will be plenty to please traditional festival followers. The opening will feature two Bach concertos played by the combined forces of Bach Akademie Australia and young Belgian harpsichordist and conductor, Korneel Bernolet.

Bach Akademie Australia, directed by Madeleine Easton, will perform music that shaped Bach, Vivaldi, Buxtehude and Pergolesi, and the St John Passion will take the stage at the Fitters’ Workshop.

But quirkier offerings abound and include: “Brexit Blues” where the Brodsky Quartet from England teams up with Quatuor Voce from France; Andrew Schultz’s operatic transformation of Helen Garner’s novella, “The Children’s Bach”; Moorambilla Voices with Canberra youth choirs and Canberra Youth Orchestra; a French extravaganza called “‘Shall We Dance?”; and Australian Brandenburg Orchestra and Brisbane’s company C!RCA in an “explosive” new collaboration of contemporary circus and the baroque.

There’ll be “Bach for Breakfast”, “Bach on the Mountain”, “Bach in the Magic Garden” – you name it.

2019 Canberra International Music Festival, book at cimf.org.au

Anticipated ‘Spider’s Web’ all a tad too tedious

“The Girl in the Spider’s Web” (MA)

IN 2015, when David Lagercrantz published the fourth title in the “Millennium” series that we all thought would end when Stieg Larsson died, many readers who probably picked it up out of curiosity put it down feeling that Larsson’s legacy of characters, relationships and situations duly honoured its forebears.

The film history of the first three involved three directors, screenplays by three different writers and three men and three women playing the core characters. That pattern continues with the fourth story centered around the whiz computer hacker Lisbeth Salander, this time played by Claire Foy, with Sverrir Gudnason playing investigative journalist Mikael Blomkvist relegated to a supporting role.

Number four is written and directed by Uruguayan filmmaker Fede Alvarez who knows how to grab filmgoers where they feel it most. It’s his fourth film. I found it relatively faithful to the novel and thus to the series’ legacy but a tad tedious, taking 115 minutes to deliver much drawn-out action with great physical vigour but less narrative variation than I expected. What is it about? Bad guys and good guys, as you might expect. The object in dispute is a computer system that will give whoever holds it access to a lot of defence data to the detriment of the free world.

Its creator has a single-digit-aged son whose autism has not crippled his geeky talents. The kid holds the key to get into the system. The Yanks have sent an agent under cover to

Sweden to get the kid. Lisbeth feels sympathy for the little boy’s situation. Cue to her unarmed combat prowess, her talent for driving Ferrari cars and Ducati motorbikes and her high pain threshold and let ‘er rip!

Larsson’s “Millennium” three novels ascribed Lisbeth’s quirky behaviour to family problems since childhood and saw them all deceased. This one reminds readers of her twin sister, as nasty as the brother with a high pain threshold.

I had a quick look at what cinema writers abroad have said about this film. I share their general consensus, that the film is banal and disappointing.

At all cinemas

“Boy Erased” (MA)

FANS of anthologies of short jokes will no doubt recall this one. Graffiti on the wall of a public toilet cubicle:

“My mother made me a homosexual.”

“If I provide the wool, will she make me one?” Not subtle. On its surface rather unkind. But on reflection, a symptom of the grievous intolerance that once blighted the lives of same-sex lovers and which Garrard Conley wrote about in a memoir about the morality and ethics of conversion therapy.

What’s conversion therapy? It is a perversion of the idea once held that gay men were suffering a curable condition, that their sexuality was learned, not natural.

“Boy Erased” confronts and dismisses that misconception.

Names have been changed but it’s Garrard Conley’s story and salvation. And credit to Joel Edgerton who adapted Garrard’s book into a screenplay, directed this film and plays Victor Sykes whose overt malignant

abhorrence of gay men serves as its quasi-villain.

The resulting film is powerful cinema, displaying religious fervour as the spring from which conversion therapy flows. Lucas Hedges plays Jared, adult son of Baptist minister Marshall (Russell Crowe) and devout Christian Nancy (Nicole Kidman). He comes out in early adulthood. Marshall insists that he undertake the therapy at a nearby college, supervised by Victor Sykes with an iron fist on one hand and a bible in the other.

From a beginning of intolerance, “Boy Erased” slowly and sometimes cruelly moves forward to the kind of outcome that this country so recently voted indirectly to support under the umbrella of same-sex marriage. The actors project deep commitment to their task, especially Britton Sear as Cameron who suffers for his belief and solves his problem in the cruellest way.

It sends a substantial message for audiences of whatever faith and sexuality.

At Dendy, Palace Electric, Capitol 6 and Hoyts Belconnen

DINING / knead bakery and deli, campbell

When all you Knead is lunch

By Wendy JOHNSON

SOMETIMES all you Knead for lunch is a great sandwich and a great cup of coffee.

Well, at Knead in Campbell, one of the newest entries on the burgeoning food scene in that part of town (where Avenue C used to be), you can do just that.

Knead is everything a fabulous bakery should be. Freshly baked breads, pies, sausage rolls, homemade sandwiches packed with quality ingredients, savoury pastries and, of course, sweets of all sorts.

But Knead offers more, with its growing line-up of intriguing deli products to buy and take home, including by the folks behind Sydney’s Drunken Sailor. When I say intriguing, I mean it. Think smokey chipotle honey, peach, vanilla and brandy jam, beetroot and gin relish and pineapple, rum and coconut jam. Dill pickles also line the shelves, as do mustards, sauces, vinegars and salts. You can also pick up coffee by Supreme, some seafood products, dairy and charcuterie.

We landed at Knead on a weekday. It was challenging to decide whether to have a pie or sausage roll or a sandwich. We decided on sandwiches and while waiting for them to arrive at the table, we read the script on the back wall describing Knead’s ethos. Knead proclaims it is “inspired by the great traditions of how food was prepared and served in years gone by… our artisan breads are handcrafted and our pastry made with real butter using traditional techniques”.

Sandwiches are $12 and I was immediately drawn to the Reuben. It was delish, with a great combo of pastrami, sauerkraut, wash-rind, smear-ripened Italian Taleggio cheese and pickle. The bread was, as promised, super fresh and the sandwich had just the

right amount of filling for my liking.

My friend was equally impressed with her baguette, filled with sopressa (Italian, aged salami), raw (cured) prosciutto and creamy ricotta. Can’t beat it.

And what would a trip to a bakery be without indulging in something sweet? Macaroons, tarts, cakes, muffins and more were all crying out “pick me, pick me”. We shared a to-die-for crème brûlée, delighting in cracking through the hard-caramelised top, and a super decadent, rich, dark chocolate ganache. They were our treats for the week (perhaps month).

At Knead, the coffee was good, the service prompt and the staff lovely. You can zip in and out with take away or order at the counter and grab a seat indoors or outdoors.

Knead in Campbell is in a perfect spot, with the massive number of units popping up in every direction. We hear there are plans to sell alcohol, when the liquor licence comes through, including a selection of craft beer and local wines.

PUZZLES PAGE

Joanne Madeline Moore

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

This week’s restless stars boost your adventurous Aries side. The early week Mars/ Jupiter square revs up your Ram motor but, if you are too hasty, then you could find yourself in hot water. So slow down and pace yourself, before you blow a fuse! Friday’s Full Moon is the perfect time for a brilliant light-bulb moment. You certainly have the ideas and passion to get an ambitious project off the ground. Now all you need is the patience and persistence to finish it.

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 21)

This week’s Full Moon shines a bright spotlight on personal and shared finances. But – with Mercury still retrograde – money matters look rather complicated, as extra expenses surface or cracks appear in a financial partnership. Whether it’s income, property, business or relationships, all joint endeavours must be closely examined and creatively reinvented. And how much do you value yourself? Remember, there is just no substitute for healthy core self-esteem.

GEMINI (May 22 – June 21)

You’re full of fabulous ideas this week as the Full Moon lights up your sign, and your sparky energy goes into overdrive. But, if you are too gung-ho and disorganised, then retrograde Mercury will bring you back down to earth with a thud. A joint venture (or a romantic partnership) needs to pass the Practicality Test. So try to balance being enthusiastic with being realistic. And don’t make serious commitments unless you are 100% certain you’ll be able to keep them.

CANCER (June 22 – July 23)

Calling all Cancers! Expect an emotional rollercoaster ride this week, as retrograde Mercury and the Full Moon disrupt and discombobulate your usual daily routine. So avoid making any important decisions until things settle down. You’re keen to put your feet up and daydream the hours away in your cosy Crab cave. But – as you retreat into your own private world – make sure you can differentiate between fact and fantasy, otherwise you’ll end up in a confusing mess.

LEO (July 24 – Aug 23)

Electric excitement is in the air this week. The Sun (your power planet) links up with Chiron and then shimmies into fellow fire sign Sagittarius. Plus there’s a sparky Full Moon in gregarious Gemini. So it’s time for Cats to get cracking! When it comes to networking, group activities and goal-setting, the more inventive and versatile you are, the better the outcome will be. Lions are trusting creatures, but don’t let a false friend lead you down the primrose path to trouble.

VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sept 23)

Work and home life look lively, as retrograde Mercury and the Full Moon fire up your career and domestic zones. The week will be messy and disorganised (and you might get distracted and make some mistakes) but try to keep things in perspective. Expect the unexpected, accept changes with good grace and adapt accordingly! So your motto for the moment is from fellow Virgo, Beyonce: “If everything was perfect, you would never learn and you would never grow.”

LIBRA (Sept 24 – Oct 23)

Librans love things to run efficiently and smoothly but (courtesy of retro Mercury and the Full Moon) there’s unpredictable planetary energy about this week. So drop the perfectly planned schedule and just take things as they come. Some possible scenarios? A relationship with a family member or neighbour could veer off in a totally unexpected direction. Or something you post on social media could receive an unforeseen response. Which will certainly keep you on your toes.

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22)

This week - if you’re not careful - you could lose direction and get lost in a quagmire of possibilities. (As birthday great, singer-songwriter Bjork observes: “I sometimes fall into the trap of doing what I think I should be doing, rather than what I want to be doing”). Also, with retro Mercury and the Full Moon firing up your dollar zones, a financial matter will become worse if you allow yourself to be side-tracked. So maintain concentration and get your priorities sorted Scorpio!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21)

With the Sun joining Jupiter and retrograde Mercury in your sign, it’s time to shake off the shackles of other people’s expectations and instead, be the authentically real you. Draw inspiration from birthday great Goldie Hawn: “The only thing that will make you happy is being happy with who you are.” Friday’s Full Moon falls in your love zone, so expect relationship dramas. Singles – over the coming month, you could experience an electric connection with someone special.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20)

Have you been wasting time worrying and procrastinating? With this week’s Full Moon lighting up your job zone, you need to reboot your daily routine and be fast and flexible as you plan your future career path. If you have the confidence to listen to your wise inner voice, then you’ll be one step ahead of the professional pack! Your creativity can also take you places at work. So use positive affirmations and active imagination to help you transition to the next level.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19)

This week you’re in the mood for an avant-garde adventure or a bohemian rendezvous. But remember there’s a fine line between being spontaneous and successful; and being hasty and foolhardy. Also – courtesy of retrograde Mercury – a cherished goal or dream may require much more planning than you originally thought. That’s OK Aquarius. Relax, take your time and concentrate on enjoying the long and winding journey, rather than just focusing on the destination.

PISCES (Feb 20 – Mar 20)

A work issue, volunteer project or education matter is taking up a lot of your time and attention but, if you hang in there, it will pay off handsomely in the long run. Have you been looking for employment? With Mercury still retrograde, there are no quick-fixes. Friday’s Full Moon encourages you to maintain enthusiasm and momentum. Be inspired by media mogul and philanthropist Ted Turner (who turns 80 on Monday): “Winners never quit, and quitters never win.”

Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2018

Across

1 What is a tipped needle, used for reproducing the sound of a gramophone record? (6)

8 The Melbourne ARL team is known as what? (3,5)

9 Which building is used for the lodging and feeding of horses? (6)

10 Name the German-born physicist who formulated the theory of relativity, Albert ... (8)

11 To draw into a breach of a law, is to do what? (6)

13 Which term describes one deserving of distinction, especially for poetic merit? (8)

16 What is another expression for personality? (8)

19 Name the son of one's sibling. (6)

22 What is a celebration of the modern Olympic Games? (8)

24 To exact satisfaction, is to do what? (6)

25 Which type of spider is commonly referred to as a triantelope? (8)

26 Name another term for a registered nurse. (6) Down

2 Which is the largest satellite of the planet Saturn? (5)

3 Name a particular Australian political party. (5)

4 What are lofty towers, attached to churches, temples or their like? (8)

5 What is an indefinitely long period of time? (4)

6 Which representation is carved in stone or wood, etc? (6)

7 William Dobell was renowned as a what? (6)

12 Name a brass wind instrument of low pitch, equipped with valves. (4)

14 Who are natives of Kampala? (8)

15 What is a curved structure resting on supports at both extremities? (4)

17 Name an inert gaseous element, symbol He. (6)

18 What do we call the device used to control the TV from an outside point? (6)

20 Which term describes noblemen or their like? (5)

21 What, in golf, is a score, two below par? (5)

23 What are distinctive doctrines called? (4)

SHOPPING WITH

I was having so much fun browsing for Christmas gifts

WITH a list of family necessities in mind, I popped into the vibrant Chemist Outlet at Dickson and met pharmacy assistant and buyer Tracey Chappell.

“We see people at all stages in their life,” she says. With the busy pharmacy at the back, led by experienced pharmacist and owner, Rhonda Warne, Tracey says that the team just loves helping customers and doing their very best for them.

Seeing the volume of orders that Rhonda and her team of pharmacists were handling on a “quiet” afternoon, I could tell they were very popular with the locals for their expert advice and assistance.

“We provide free blood-pressure checks, Webster medication packing as well as home delivery in the local area,” says Tracey.

However, my shopping list took us firstly to the great selection of sunscreen in the middle of the shop. Tracey pointed out that Chemist Outlet currently has the popular Banana Boat brand on sale and is running a gift promotion with Nivea and Neutrogena products. She highly recommended I try Neutrogena’s 50+ hydroboost water gel lotion, something I hadn’t seen before and, paired with a spray sunscreen, I received a fantastic tote bag.

As I glanced to the side of the sunscreen section, I also noticed their great range of kids’ “rashie” swimwear and Ozko kids’ sunglasses.

At the front of the shop are some great stocking-stuffer options for all the family. I love the cute bath products – bath confetti, bath caviar and bath “Mentos” all make for fun gifts for those who like a soak.

Tracey shows me Chemist Outlet’s wide range of fragrances. From nana’s favourite, Yardley, to the new Vera Wang and Katy Perry signature range for the younger cousins, there’s a beautiful scent for everyone at a good price, too.

Gift packs are big sellers in the lead up to Christmas and Natio and Adidas are on special and offer sets for guys and girls, says Tracey.

Tracey shows me beautifully presented candles and diffusers by Aromabotanicals – we smell her favourite, Japanese Honeysuckle, which has a lovely freshness.

I was having so much fun Christmas-gift browsing, I grabbed the vitamins and kids’ shampoo that were on my list – and a few extras, too!

Chemist Outlet, 1 /42 Dickson Place, Dickson.

OPEN GARDEN / Kambah

Relaxed gardeners loving the serendipity

shrubs and trees suitable for cool and temperate climate gardens available year round.

A large range of unusual grafted plants and bush food plants also available. Expert staff happy to advise or answer questions.

Open 7 days

IT’S all about relaxed, laid-back living for garden owners Alan and Lynne Wade, whose Kambah home features wide decks to the front and back for entertaining while enjoying the garden and views over the Brindabellas.

The garden keeps them busy though, with a broad sweep of natives to the front and veggies, berries, beehives and chooks tucked away in the back behind thriving hydrangeas and callistemon.

The garden will be open to the public for the first time through Open Gardens Canberra on the weekend of November 24-25.

Meandering paths take visitors to hidden nooks and crannies in what Alan describes as a “largely unstructured garden full of surprises” on their steep 1800sqm block.

“The garden has evolved over time, it speaks to us rather than us speaking to it!” says Lynne.

The couple grow seedlings, make hand cream from their own beeswax, and jam from their raspberries and boysenberries.

“I tend to prefer being in the back garden, and the bees are my favourite. They produced half a tonne of honey last year and I’ve recently successfully requeened the hives,” says Alan.

“In the summer I love sitting out by the hydrangeas, they’re taller than we are in the height of the season and it makes an intimate atmosphere when we’ve got friends round,” says Lynne.

“It’s nice to take a cup of tea out on the front deck, too. Every room of the house looks out on to a garden vista of some description, which I like.”

Kathryn Vukovljak

Photos: Luke Foster

On the open garden weekend, jams, local honey and afternoon tea will be available for sale.

Alan says the garden has been a labour of love, with much work going into improving the soil and creating efficient irrigation through 50,000-litre water systems, including rainwater tanks under the front deck which overflow into a sunken tank.

“We’ve done a lot of soil improvement as we started with a lateritic base when we started the garden 35 years ago, and many of the plants I’ve grown myself from seed,” Alan says.

“We built the garden ourselves, we’ve carted in rocks and countless truckloads of soil and washed river sand, and built wastewater and rainwater systems, which we top up with mains water.

“We didn’t really have a plan at the outset, which is why we call it the serendipitous garden!”

12 Lawrence Crescent, Kambah, open 10am-4pm, on Saturday, November 24, and Sunday, November 25. Admission $8; free to under-18s and Open Gardens Canberra members. Funds raised will go to Toora Women. It costs $25 to join Open Gardens Canberra and gain free entry to all open gardens until August 31, 2019. More information at opengardenscanberra.org.au/ members

Also open: 2 Larakia Street, Waramanga, a cottage garden with more than 500 bush and climbing roses framed by mature deciduous trees.

Great trees for tight spots…

By Cedric

BRYANT

WALTER Burley Griffin’s vision of a garden city has long given way to the bush capital, which has now been replaced by a concrete jungle as block sizes shrink and towering high-rise developments reduce the opportunity to garden.

With this in mind, I receive frequent requests from readers to recommend small plants for small gardens. Typically, I rule out almost any trees and even medium-sized shrubs.

One recent request was for suggestions for trees on a small block to act as a screen to an adjoining property that needed to be tall and narrow as the space was limited. Also, the householders didn’t want to restrict the winter sun.

Despite the conflict between screening and no leaves in winter, I suggested Prunus cerasifera “Oakville Crimson Spire”.

This is a hardy tree of the ornamental non-fruiting plum family with magnificent purple foliage and white blossoms in spring. It meets the requirement of tall and narrow, growing to six metres wide and up to two metres tall. A group of three to five of these trees could look truly stunning.

Another small tree growing to just three metres tall and two metres wide is Cercis chinensis “Avondale”, which is well known for its profusion of deep-pink flowers in spring followed by large, apple-green, heart-shaped leaves in summer that

turn to lemon yellow in autumn. Possibly more spectacular, although somewhat larger, is Cercis canadensis “Forest Pansy”, growing to about five metres by five metres. In spring, masses of pink, pea-like flowers appear, but the spectacular feature of the tree is the large, heart-shaped leaves, which appear after the flowers opening to brilliant shades of reddish-purple, gradually changing to purplish-red.

Then the leaves change to purplish-green in summer. Finally, in autumn they change to brilliant yellow and orange. What more do you want from a tree for the medium-size garden?

The last of the Cercis family is C. siliquastrum or Judas Tree from the Mediterranean. Legend has it this is the tree on which Judas hanged himself. Rosy-lilac flowers wreath the tree in summer followed by distinctive, purple-tinted seed pods

that can be an attraction in themselves. This is classed as a small tree growing to six metres wide by four metres tall.

Jottings...

• Prune rambling roses, such as the yellow Banksia rose and grafted, standard weeping roses, after flowering.

• Magpies digging up a lawn are almost certainly after lawn grubs. Another indication is when raking the grass you find you are raking dead grass. Talk to your garden centre now for the right spray before it is too late.

• Now is the time to plant tomatoes. Remember to remove the lower leaves and plant deeper than one would normally do. Water in with Maxicrop Seaweed Plant Nutrient for strong root growth.